JPN.CAM

Olympus / 1972 / SLR

Olympus OM-1

A remarkably small 35mm SLR designed around the idea that professional capability should not require professional bulk.

collector iconmade in Japaninterchangeable lens
Olympus OM-1 35mm SLR camera

Image: Olympus OM-1 35mm SLR camera · Alberto.bidinot · source · Public domain

Overview / 概要

Why Olympus OM-1 matters.

The OM-1 changed expectations for SLR size and remains a masterclass in packing controls into a calm object.

Design & context

Its compact prism, large finder, and lens-mounted shutter-speed ring make the camera feel unusually balanced.

Buying today

Meter conversions and prism condition matter; the camera is lovely to use, but not every example is equally serviceable.

Key specifications / 仕様

The details.

Released
1972
Production
1972–1987
Brand
Olympus
Brand country
Japan
Format
Film
Film / sensor
35mm
Camera type
SLR
Lens / mount
Olympus OM mount
Shutter range
1s–1/1000s
Autofocus
Manual focus
Viewfinder
Large fixed pentaprism
Weight
510g
Battery
Meter cell replacement may be needed

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

Notable features

  • Compact SLR body
  • Large viewfinder
  • Olympus OM system

Known issues

  • Condition varies significantly on the used market.

Source record

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

Reference set attached
  1. 01

    Olympus OM-1 reference record

    Wikipedia · Reference index

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

    Open source ↗
  2. 02

    Olympus archive / product context

    OM SYSTEM · Brand archive / context

    Supports: brand history, product context, and source ownership trail. Accessed 2026-08-12.

    Open source ↗