Topcon RE Super - The Professional Pioneer of TTL MeteringThe Topcon RE Super (introduced in 1963) is a landmark in photographic history. It was the first professional 35mm SLR to feature Through-The-Lens (TTL) full-aperture metering—a technological leap that even preceded the Nikon F’s adoption of the tech. Built by Tokyo Kogaku with the ruggedness of a tank, the RE Super was selected by the U.S. Navy for its durability and precision. Known for its modular design and the legendary quality of its RE Auto-Topcor lenses, this camera remains a cult favorite among professional collectors and purists who value high-performance mechanical engineering.Key BenefitsHistorical First: Own the pioneer of TTL metering; the meter is uniquely integrated into the mirror itself using a cadmium sulfide (CdS) cell.Legendary Optics: Equipped with the RE Auto-Topcor 58mm f/1.8, a lens famous for its incredible sharpness and "Topcor" character, often compared favorably to contemporary Leitz or Zeiss glass.Modular Professional System: Features a fully removable pentaprism and interchangeable focusing screens, allowing it to adapt to any shooting environment.FeaturesCamera Type: 35mm Single Lens Reflex (SLR)Lens: RE Auto-Topcor $58\text{mm}$ f/1.8 (Serial No. 11620612)Mount: Topcon RE Bayonet (Exakta-compatible physical mount)Shutter: Focal-plane cloth shutter, speeds from 1s to 1/1000s plus Bulb (B)Metering: TTL full-aperture CdS metering (powered by a PX625-type battery)Viewfinder: Removable eye-level pentaprism with microprism focusing screenConstruction: All-metal chassis with premium black textured covering and satin chrome accentsSerial Number: 4627195ConditionCosmetic (Rated 4/5): The camera is in excellent vintage condition. The satin chrome top and bottom plates are remarkably clean. The black leatherette is tight, secure, and free from "bumps" or peeling.Optical: The 58mm Topcor lens is clear with no visible fungus. Typical for optics of this era, minor internal dust may be present. The viewfinder is bright and provides a clear image for critical focus.Mechanical: The shutter fires across all speeds. The film advance lever and shutter release operate with the heavy, high-precision feel of a professional-grade instrument.Note: This item is sold as a professional collectible. While mechanically operational, it has not been film-tested. The light meter requires a specific mercury-replacement battery and has not been tested for accuracy.What's IncludedTopcon RE Super Camera Body (Serial No. 4627195)RE Auto-Topcor $58\text{mm}$ f/1.8 LensOriginal Topcon Chrome Front Lens CapWhy This Product?The Topcon RE Super is often described as the "Nikon F that might have been." It is a camera built without compromise for those who needed absolute reliability in the field. This specific unit is a beautifully preserved example, featuring the quintessential 58mm Topcor lens that collectors covet. Whether you are adding to a collection of professional-grade SLRs or looking to experience one of the most significant mechanical cameras ever produced, the RE Super stands as a monumental achievement in Japanese camera design.Keywords: Topcon RE Super, Tokyo Kogaku, RE Auto-Topcor, 35mm SLR, TTL Metering, US Navy Camera, Vintage SLR, Professional Camera, 1960s Design, Analog Photography.