JPN.CAM

Canon / 1972 / Rangefinder

Canonet QL17 G-III

A fast-lensed Japanese rangefinder that balances pocketable proportions with a bright focusing patch.

collector iconfixed lensmade in Japan

Editorial placeholder visual / rights-safe until a licensed image is attached.

Overview / 概要

Why Canonet QL17 G-III matters.

The QL17 G-III is one of the clearest examples of a compact camera that still feels like a serious photographic tool.

Design & context

The rectangular body, bright lens, and quiet rangefinder window make it a small piece of industrial confidence.

Buying today

Check the meter, light seals, rangefinder alignment, and battery adaptation before judging cosmetics.

Key specifications / 仕様

The details.

Released
1972
Production
1972–1982
Brand
Canon
Brand country
Japan
Format
Film
Film / sensor
35mm
Camera type
Rangefinder
Lens / mount
40mm f/1.7
Focal length
40mm
Maximum aperture
f/1.7
Shutter range
1/4s–1/500s
Autofocus
Manual rangefinder focus
Viewfinder
Coupled rangefinder
Flash
Hot shoe
Weight
620g
Dimensions
120 × 75 × 60mm

Still to verify for this record: Manufacturing country · Made in Japan flag · ISO range · Battery / power · Weather sealing · Original MSRP.

Notable features

  • 40mm f/1.7 lens
  • Coupled rangefinder
  • Quick loading system

Known issues

  • Condition varies significantly on the used market.

Buying today / indicative used range

$220–$650 USD

Indicative clean-working body range; not a live market quote. Snapshot as of 2026-08-12. This is a reference range, not a live offer.

Source record

Every field should be traceable; open a source to check the evidence boundary.

Primary source checked
  1. 01

    Canonet QL17 G-III product record

    Canon Camera Museum · Museum / institutional archive

    Supports: market introduction, lens, shutter, dimensions, and weight. Accessed 2026-08-12.

    Open source ↗
  2. 02

    Canonet QL17 G-III reference record

    Wikipedia · Reference index

    Supports: model identity, release era, format, and commonly documented specifications. Accessed 2026-08-12.

    Open source ↗