Canon FT, FTb, TL and TLb

The Canon FT and FTb are simplified versions of the Canon F-1. The main differences are that the finder system is not inter�changeable, the camera back cannot be replaced by the long-length roll film magazine, and the motor drive cannot be attached. The highest shutter speed is 1/1000 sec. instead of 1/2000 sec.

The difference between the Canon FT and FTb is the way the metering system works. The FT provides stopped-down metering with FL series lenses, while the FTb does this at full aperture when FD series lenses are mounted to the camera, but stopped-down metering only when FL series lenses are attached. In both cases, of course, the diaphragm closes automatically to the premetered f/stop. When R series lenses are used the metering is done with stopped-down diaphragm and, after reopening the diaphragm for focusing, the diaphragm has to be closed down again manually to the premetered f/stop. The difference between the Canon FT and TL (and respectively between the FTb and TLb) is that 1/500 sec. is the TL�s highest shutter speed whereas the FT�s highest shutter speed is 1/1000 sec.

Another difference between these cameras is the location of the meter switch, which is at the film-rewind crank on the FTb. The FT uses the self-timer lever for this purpose.

Back - Previous page - Next page

           � Christian Rollinger 2002