Vintage 1982 Chinon 612XL Macro Zoom Super 8mm Movie Camera w/7-42mm f/1.2 Lens

JC026

$199.97

Vintage Chinon Model 612XL Macro Zoom Super 8mm Movie Camera w/Chinon Reflex 7-42mm Very fast f/1.2 Lens & Copy of Instructions RARE

Best we can determine from internet research, the Chinon Model 612XL Macro Zoom Super 8mm Movie Camera was in production in the early 1980s.

Capture the essence of retro filmmaking with this exceptional Vintage Chinon Model 612XL Macro Zoom Super 8mm Movie Camera. Featuring a rare and highly sought-after Chinon Reflex 7-42mm lens with a very fast f/1.2 aperture, this camera is perfect for enthusiasts and collectors alike. Camera uses 100 foot Super 8 film cartridge.

Features include:

Macro focusing,
Split image focusing,
Auto or manual zoom,
Film rates 18, 30 or single (pressing the 30 f/s button during filming increases the frame rate so when played back at the normal 18 frames per second rate creates a slow motion effect),
Automatic,
Backlight control (holding the BLC button in then activating the shutter adjusts the exposure so while this camera does not have any exposure compensation, the use of the BLC button can be used to over expose the film),
Battery power indicator and
Remote control socket.
The 612XL uses three AA batteries (included) in the fold down camera grip.
Camera comes with an internet download of basic camera instructions.

Key Specifications:

Model: Chinon Model 612XL
Film Format: Super 8mm
Lens: Chinon Reflex 7-42mm f/1.2
Aperture: Very fast f/1.2
Zoom: Macro Zoom

Approx. Dimensions: 8-3/8" L x 7-1/2" T (with handle extended) x 2-1/4" D

Approx. Weight: 1 lb, 14.9 ozs (with batteries installed)

Sold as is. No warranty from the Seller. No Returns.

CONDITION NOTE: Used, but in good condition considering its age. The camera exterior has a defect on the top of the camera where the plastic may have melted a bit from a hot mounted light. Could not test the shutter since even with new batteries, the battery test function does not register that the batteries are inserted, indicating that the terminals may need to be cleaned. The inside film loading area is in mint condition, but not tested by filming and then developing the film. The zoom lens optics appear clean and clear with no scratches, chips, streaks, fungus, fog or haze that I can see (see pictures) with the exception that the inside viewfinder glass has some dust particles that should not affect filming results. The camera does not come with its original box, or packaging. The auto side Zoom button does not work, but the zoom functions fine manually. See all pictures to know what you are purchasing.

History of the Manufacturing Company:

Chinon Industries Inc. was a renowned Japanese manufacturer of cameras and optical products. Established in 1948, the company gained recognition for producing high-quality cameras, lenses, and other imaging equipment. Chinon cameras were known for their reliability, innovation, and excellent craftsmanship. While Chinon is no longer in operation, its legacy lives on through its impressive range of cameras that are highly valued by collectors and photography enthusiasts worldwide.

BACKSTORY: Frank G Cairo, Owner of the Cairo Camera Shop

Frank Cairo moved from the Bronx, New York to Kenosha, WI in 1943. The next year, after getting married, he acquired the neighborhood grocery store next door and made it into Cairo Camera Shop. He operated the store for over fifty years until his death in 1997.

He loved cameras, projectors, movie stars and movies and was the photographer for the local auto workers union. He began collecting 8, 16 and 35mm films. Eventually, Cairo Home Movies became the largest private film collection in Southern Wisconsin. In addition to renting films and projectors, one could rent him to show movies from his library at parties and events. In the summers, he had free outdoor movie nights for neighborhood kids. If you would like to see a 5 minute video about Frank Cairo and his camera shop as told by his son, see: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dqCoUsiGfaA