Canon Model IIF - rare historical E.P. Engraving Rangefinder camera






Has 40 years of experience in photography and 25 years of collecting expertise, specialising in M42 lens mounts.
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Canon IIF 35mm rangefinder camera with E.P. engraving, serial number 149595, in very good physical condition and tested and working.
Description from the seller
Rare Canon IIF L-Mount Rangefinder Camera with Historical E.P. Engraving - A Mid-Century Masterpiece
Step back into the golden age of post-war optical engineering with this exceptionally rare Canon IIF rangefinder camera, featuring the prestigious "E.P." (Exchange Post) engraving on the top plate. Manufactured in the early 1950s, this camera is not merely a precision photographic tool; it is a tangible piece of history that tells the story of Japan’s resurgence as a global leader in high-quality craftsmanship, specifically tailored for military post exchanges of the era.
Holding this mechanical marvel in your hands invokes a deep connection to a time when cameras were built entirely by skilled artisans to last a lifetime. Operating the smooth tactile controls and looking through the integrated rangefinder finder offers a deliberate, artistic rhythm that modern digital devices simply cannot replicate. When you hear the soft, mechanical whisper of the cloth focal-plane shutter, you will experience the pure, unadulterated joy of classic analog photography. Capturing moments with this historic Canon IIF allows you to slow down and create images filled with timeless character and soulful narrative.
This beautifully preserved piece carries a gentle, authentic patina that honors its historical journey while remaining fully operational for your next visual exploration. Elevate your collection and your photographic art with a true symbol of Japanese mid-century dedication.
* Release Date: 1953
* Manufacturer: Canon
* Product Name: Canon IIF with E.P. Engraving
* Size: approx. Width 136mm x Height 72mm x Depth 32mm
* Weight: approx. 520g (Body only)
* Type: 35mm focal-plane shutter rangefinder camera
* Lens Mount: Leica L-mount (L39 screw mount)
* Shutter: Mechanical horizontal-travel cloth focal-plane shutter
* Shutterspeed: B, 1 to 1/500 sec
* Film Advance: Knob wind system (Bottom-loading)
* Operation: Completely operational. The shutter speeds change at each setting and operate at corresponding speeds, though precision cannot be guaranteed as it has not been mechanically measured.
* Viewfinder Condition: Tiny dust inclusions and slight haze present, but the rangefinder double image is clearly visible and correctly aligns.
* Shutter Curtain Condition: Slight wrinkling/creasing present, but entirely light-tight with no leaks.
* Body Appearance: Minor surface scratches consistent with careful vintage use.
* Accessories: Take-up Spool, Body Cap
Disclaimer: Please note that the product description above was generated with AI assistance. As there may be potential inaccuracies, please refer to the provided photos and the official manufacturer's website for the most accurate and definitive information.
Shipping Policy: We will ship your order with a tracking number within 1-3 business days after payment confirmation.
Important Notice: Shipping Suspension to Specific Regions
Due to the worsening situation in the Middle East and its impact on international flight schedules, we have decided to suspend shipping to the following countries until further notice.
Target Countries:
Ukraine, Russia, Belarus, Iran, Israel, Syria, North Korea, Afghanistan, Yemen, Sudan, Somalia, Libya
If an order is placed for any of these destinations, we will have to cancel it.
We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.
Terms and Conditions
1. What is included in this item is only what is shown in the picture. Please note that batteries and other items not shown in the picture are not included.
2. Import duties, taxes, VAT (Value Added Tax), and other charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These costs are the buyer's responsibility. Please check with your country's customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to bidding or buying.
3. When purchasing a lens, please note that any issues arising from the use of third-party mount adapters are not covered under warranty.
4. Condition ratings and descriptions are based on the seller's subjective evaluation. Since the perception of an item's condition can vary between individuals, please carefully review all provided photos and place your bid based on your own judgment and responsibility.
5. In the event that you are not satisfied with the item or find any discrepancies with the description, the item must be returned to the seller first. A refund will be processed immediately upon the safe return of the item. All return policies are governed by Catawiki's terms and conditions.
6. By placing a bid, you are deemed to have read and agreed to all the terms and conditions stated above.
Seller's Story
Rare Canon IIF L-Mount Rangefinder Camera with Historical E.P. Engraving - A Mid-Century Masterpiece
Step back into the golden age of post-war optical engineering with this exceptionally rare Canon IIF rangefinder camera, featuring the prestigious "E.P." (Exchange Post) engraving on the top plate. Manufactured in the early 1950s, this camera is not merely a precision photographic tool; it is a tangible piece of history that tells the story of Japan’s resurgence as a global leader in high-quality craftsmanship, specifically tailored for military post exchanges of the era.
Holding this mechanical marvel in your hands invokes a deep connection to a time when cameras were built entirely by skilled artisans to last a lifetime. Operating the smooth tactile controls and looking through the integrated rangefinder finder offers a deliberate, artistic rhythm that modern digital devices simply cannot replicate. When you hear the soft, mechanical whisper of the cloth focal-plane shutter, you will experience the pure, unadulterated joy of classic analog photography. Capturing moments with this historic Canon IIF allows you to slow down and create images filled with timeless character and soulful narrative.
This beautifully preserved piece carries a gentle, authentic patina that honors its historical journey while remaining fully operational for your next visual exploration. Elevate your collection and your photographic art with a true symbol of Japanese mid-century dedication.
* Release Date: 1953
* Manufacturer: Canon
* Product Name: Canon IIF with E.P. Engraving
* Size: approx. Width 136mm x Height 72mm x Depth 32mm
* Weight: approx. 520g (Body only)
* Type: 35mm focal-plane shutter rangefinder camera
* Lens Mount: Leica L-mount (L39 screw mount)
* Shutter: Mechanical horizontal-travel cloth focal-plane shutter
* Shutterspeed: B, 1 to 1/500 sec
* Film Advance: Knob wind system (Bottom-loading)
* Operation: Completely operational. The shutter speeds change at each setting and operate at corresponding speeds, though precision cannot be guaranteed as it has not been mechanically measured.
* Viewfinder Condition: Tiny dust inclusions and slight haze present, but the rangefinder double image is clearly visible and correctly aligns.
* Shutter Curtain Condition: Slight wrinkling/creasing present, but entirely light-tight with no leaks.
* Body Appearance: Minor surface scratches consistent with careful vintage use.
* Accessories: Take-up Spool, Body Cap
Disclaimer: Please note that the product description above was generated with AI assistance. As there may be potential inaccuracies, please refer to the provided photos and the official manufacturer's website for the most accurate and definitive information.
Shipping Policy: We will ship your order with a tracking number within 1-3 business days after payment confirmation.
Important Notice: Shipping Suspension to Specific Regions
Due to the worsening situation in the Middle East and its impact on international flight schedules, we have decided to suspend shipping to the following countries until further notice.
Target Countries:
Ukraine, Russia, Belarus, Iran, Israel, Syria, North Korea, Afghanistan, Yemen, Sudan, Somalia, Libya
If an order is placed for any of these destinations, we will have to cancel it.
We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.
Terms and Conditions
1. What is included in this item is only what is shown in the picture. Please note that batteries and other items not shown in the picture are not included.
2. Import duties, taxes, VAT (Value Added Tax), and other charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These costs are the buyer's responsibility. Please check with your country's customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to bidding or buying.
3. When purchasing a lens, please note that any issues arising from the use of third-party mount adapters are not covered under warranty.
4. Condition ratings and descriptions are based on the seller's subjective evaluation. Since the perception of an item's condition can vary between individuals, please carefully review all provided photos and place your bid based on your own judgment and responsibility.
5. In the event that you are not satisfied with the item or find any discrepancies with the description, the item must be returned to the seller first. A refund will be processed immediately upon the safe return of the item. All return policies are governed by Catawiki's terms and conditions.
6. By placing a bid, you are deemed to have read and agreed to all the terms and conditions stated above.
