I purchased a Canon Pellix from Used Photo Pro in Indianapolis in their "as-is" section for approximately $25. This is a unique SLR for the time because it has a semi-transparent mirror (fixed pellicle mirror) vs the traditional SLR mirror. The camera was introduced in 1965 and only produced through 1966 replaced by the Pellix QL (Quick Load) which was produced through 1970.
The camera was equipped with a TTL CdS light meter positioned behind the mirror. With a fixed translucent mirror there is no mirror movement which prevented viewfinder blackout when shooting (not a big issue honestly) and reduced vibration (good for slow shutter speeds / long exposures). No "mirror slap". However, the viewfinder is dimmer since the light through the lens is split. I personally didn't notice this as an issue in my shooting.
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| Pellix without a lens showing the semi-transparent mirror |
A few features:
- Completely manual camera with a light meter.
- Shutter speed from B + 1s to 1/1000.
- Canon FL lens mount. This type of lens readily available, very bright and affordable in many focal lengths.
- A dial on top of the camera that activates the viewfinder blind. This can be used for long exposures (The only camera I own that has this feature. I don't thing I'll ever use it, but it's still cool.).
- Accessory cold shoe.
- Match - needle light meter exposure display (you adjust speed or aperture until the needle rests inside the small circle).
- Shutter button lock.
- Easy to use mechanical self timer.
- Cloth shutter curtain.
Some issues:
- The ISO/Din numbers are VERY small and red. ISO is set on the shutter speed dial visible in 2 very small openings. The ISO numbers are VERY hard to read in my experience.
- Max ISO when using the light meter only goes up to 800. Any faster film will need to be used without a meter.
- No hot shoe.
- Takes a 1.35V PX625 style battery which are available but NOT readily common. HOWEVER, the Canon Pellix operates without a battery. You just won't be able to use the light meter.
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| Top of camera, viewfinder curtain dial below the film rewind knob |
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| Viewfinder in normal / open setting |
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| Viewfinder closed |
I've should a few rolls of Eastman Vision3 250D in both 200 & 250 ISO through my Pellix. Here are examples:
Overall, I think this is a well build, sturdy basic Canon FL mount SLR with basic features. I'm glad I have it in my collection HOWEVER, there are other FL mount Canon's that I prefer.
