Olympus Auto Eye Analogue camera

Olympus Auto Eye + D.Zuiko 45mm 1:2.8 — Working Selenium-Powered Rangefinder, Japan's First Auto-Exposure Camera (1960)

A working Olympus Auto Eye 35mm rangefinder camera with its fixed D.Zuiko 45mm f/2.8 four-element lens. Introduced in April 1960, the Auto Eye holds an important place in Japanese camera history as the FIRST Japanese camera to offer automatic exposure, achieved with a built-in selenium light meter that requires NO battery. A true mechanical classic — fully usable today without sourcing any obscure battery type.

Including:
- Camera body
- Fixed D.Zuiko 45mm 1:2.8 lens (built-in)
- Olympus front lens cap
(No battery required — this camera works entirely on its built-in selenium cell and mechanical shutter)

Appearance:
Vintage cosmetic wear consistent with age (1960s camera). Some patina and light scuffs on the chrome top plate; small spots / oxidation marks may be visible. Leatherette body covering is intact with no peeling. The selenium cell window (front, honeycomb-pattern glass) is clean. No major dents or serious damage.

Function:
35mm rangefinder camera with automatic exposure (shutter-priority AE) powered by a selenium photoelectric cell, Copal SV leaf shutter (B, 1 s – 1/500 s), and Pre-View button for checking exposure before shooting.
- Shutter: fires correctly (confirmed)
- Film advance lever: operates (confirmed)
- Shutter speed dial: operates (confirmed)
- Rangefinder coupling: focusing ring linked to rangefinder spot
- Selenium AE meter: responds to light (confirmed)
- ASA setting: 10 – 400, operates
- Rewind crank: operates (confirmed)
- Self-timer: present
- Pre-View button: present

No battery is required for any function of this camera — the selenium cell generates its own electricity from incident light. This is a key advantage over later electronic cameras of the same era.

Optical system (lens):
D.Zuiko 45mm 1:2.8 — a sharp 4-element (Tessar-type) lens, fixed to the body. The front element is clean with no fungus, no haze, no major scratches. A small amount of dust may be present but does not affect image quality. Aperture blades are clean and operate correctly.

Shutter / film chamber:
The Copal SV leaf shutter blades appear clean. The film chamber and pressure plate are clean overall.

Notes:
This is a historically significant camera — Japan's first auto-exposure 35mm camera — and a charming everyday shooter for film enthusiasts who appreciate classic mechanical design without the hassle of vintage batteries. Please refer to the photos for the exact condition and accessories. As this is a 1960s camera, occasional servicing (CLA) is recommended for long-term reliable use.

Shipping:
Japan Post Small Packet with tracking number. Shipping only to the address registered on Catawiki. No shipping to Russia. Delivery to Italy may take longer than usual. Shipping fees to Portugal may be temporarily higher.

Import duties, taxes, VAT, and any other charges incurred upon delivery are the responsibility of the buyer and depend on the regulations of the destination country. Please check with your local customs office before bidding. No refund will be issued for customs refusal, VAT refusal, or package refusal.

Payment:
Item will be shipped within 3 business days after payment is confirmed.