Chinon 35EE

This is another of my collection of very similar rangefinder cameras. Like the GAF Memo 35ET and Mamyia 135 it has the ususal brightline viewfinder with a superimposition rangefinder coupled to the focus ring. It is also fitted with a very similar lens to the GAF and Mamyia being a 38mm but this time rated at f2.7 rather than f2.8.. I don't suppose that this makes any difference at all in practice - it is most probably the same lens. The shutter is the same as fitted to the GAF and Mamyia . The metering and battery arrangements are the same as well on all three cameras. The Chinon 35EE is fitted with a lever-operated self-timer mounted in the traditional position on the front of the camera body alongside the lens. The flashmatic system has guide numbers engraved on the control ring, which is an improvement on the Mamiya which just has a series of dots. The camera also features a B setting for the shutter which is missing from the Mamiya. Interestingly, the film loading door is rather more like the Konica C35 than the one fitted to the GAF Memo 35ET and Mamyia 135.

In use the camera is like the others a delight. It is very well made and finished. The shutter makes a quiet but definite click. The viewfinder is excellent and fast to use. I like this camera very much.

Repairs

A new set of light seals and a new battery got it up and running very easily.

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