Canon AF35M (1979)
A 35mm point & shoot film camera with active autofocus, known as the Sure Shot in North America and Autoboy in Japan.
Overview
The Canon AF35M is a 35mm point & shoot film camera introduced in 1979. It was marketed as the Sure Shot in North America and the Autoboy in Japan. Notable for being one of the first consumer cameras with active autofocus, the AF35M marked a significant step in automated photography. It features manual ISO settings from 25 to 400 and uses two AA batteries for power, including for its motorized film advance and rewind.
Specifications
| Lens | Canon 38mm f/2.8 (4 elements, 3 groups) |
| Minimum focus distance | 0.35m |
| Shutter speed | 1/8s - 1/500s |
| Film sensitivity | 25 - 400 ISO, manually set |
| Power supply | 2x 1.5V AA batteries |
| Film rewind | Power rewind with switch |
| Dimensions | 132×77×54 mm |
| Weight | 405g (including batteries) |
Design
The camera uses an active autofocus system, a pioneering feature at the time. Canon spent 14 years developing the autofocus mechanism before the AF35M's release.
Market
The Canon AF35M has appeared in recent listings at $88.00 CAD for renewed units. Common issues reported include failure to power on and film not advancing.
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