Olympus OM-1 Camera Body

A heavily brassed and well used Black Olympus OM-1n body (serial 2051526). No lens is being supplied with this camera but we do have some OM Zuiko lenses in the store.

This is one of our own cameras and as you can see it has seen a lot of action. The camera, though well used, was serviced 5 years ago by an Olympus technician and the camera performs extremely well. The meter and shutter are operating in specification and of course, being one of our own cameras, has been extensively film tested.

The camera has new seals (Jon Goodman types which will outlast any foam type seals) and mirror bumpers and the although shabby looking on the outside is mint internally with a bright and clear viewfinder.

The OM-1 can suffer prism de-silvering due to old foam. As part of our own servicing of this camera the troublesome foam has been removed to ensure the prism stays in excellent condition.

Launched in 1972 as the Olympus M1 the camera subsequently had its name changed to OM-1 after a spat with Leica who has used the ‘M’ designation.

The OM-1 is historically significant as it changed the entire market for 35mm SLRs due to its small size and low weight.

Noted in its day for its exceptionally bright and immersive viewfinder and toughness. The Original OM-1 eventually became the OM-1n to incorporate improvements such as the connection for a motor drive.

Today, the camera is much sought after but they can suffer from prism de-silvering due to Olympus fitting foam around the viewfinder. As the foam degrades with age it releases acidic chemicals which destroy the prism.
A common issue with the OM-1 is light leaks around the hinge seals on the rear door. This one has been fitted with a seal designed by Jon Goodman which will prevent any issues.

Camera has had the troublesome prism foam removed, new Jon Goodman type light seals and was serviced by an Olympus specialist around 5 years ago. The camera has been tested prior to offering it for sale and found to be within specification.

SAMPLE Olympus OM1 Olympia 28mm Fuji 400 Didcot

SAMPLE Olympus OM1 Ophelia 2 28mm Fuji 400 Didcot 3

SAMPLE Olympus OM1 Olympia 28mm FP4 Pendennis Castle

Test pics are thumbnails please click for high definition version.

Please be aware that the cameras and lenses for sale can be up to 50 years old.  They have been serviced and/or checked and are always as good as they can be made, but please don’t expect them to be flawless as if they were made yesterday.

All lenses of this age exhibit some small particles of dust and coatings are not up to modern standards. Cameras will exhibit some wear signs and likewise may have small dust specks in their viewfinders or focus screens.  These do not affect the picture in any way.

ANY problems or issues will be described in the main text which you are advised to read carefully.If you are unfamiliar with film cameras we suggest you do some online research and read the manuals which are freely available from online resources.

We are enthusiastic film fans and spend our time hunting cameras and lenses that have been or are being unloved. We then spend hours to bring them back to fully working and clean condition, ready for a new lease of life with you  We always change the film seals, give the camera a clean/service and make sure its fully working before we sell it on to you.

Most lenses are cleaned, re-lubricated and all of their functions checked prior to sale so you know they will work, full details will always be in the text. All items are packed safely for transit using proper packing material NOT something the cat was sick in. Having been stung both on eBay and by dealers alike who often know very little about film cameras we decided to offer people a chance to experience film using a camera that will last for many years and which we can say for sure works reliably

Mel & Claire