Canon Model P body

Canon P

• Camera Type: 35mm Rangefinder Film Camera
• Film Format: 35mm (135 Film)
• Lens Mount: Leica Thread Mount (LTM / M39 Screw Mount)
• Focus Type: Manual Rangefinder Focus
• Viewfinder: Bright-Line Viewfinder with 35mm, 50mm, and 100mm Frame Lines (Approx. 1.0× Magnification)
• Shutter Type: Horizontal Cloth Focal Plane Shutter
• Shutter Speed Range: 1 sec – 1/1000 sec + Bulb
• ISO Range: Depends on Film Used
• Metering: —
• Exposure Modes: Manual
• Flash Sync Speed: 1/55 sec (X Sync)
• Flash: External Flash via Cold Shoe and PC Sync Terminal
• Power Source: None (Fully Mechanical)
• Film Advance: Manual Lever Advance
• Self-Timer: Yes
• Weight: Approx. 580g (Body Only)
• Dimensions: Approx. 144 × 76 × 32 mm

Description

The Canon P (short for "Populaire") is one of the most celebrated 35mm rangefinder cameras ever produced by Canon. Introduced in 1959, it was designed to offer the precision and handling of a professional rangefinder at a more accessible price, quickly becoming one of Canon's most successful Leica Thread Mount cameras.

Built around the Leica Thread Mount (LTM / M39), the Canon P is compatible with an extensive range of classic lenses from Canon, Leica, Nikon, Voigtländer, Nicca, and many other manufacturers. Its bright 1.0× life-size viewfinder features built-in frame lines for 35mm, 50mm, and 100mm lenses, allowing photographers to keep both eyes open for an intuitive and immersive shooting experience.

Unlike traditional Leica screw-mount cameras, the Canon P features a hinged rear door for quick and convenient film loading, along with a smooth lever film advance, automatic frame counter, and a quiet, refined shutter. Its robust all-metal construction and dependable fully mechanical operation have earned it a lasting reputation for durability and reliability.

Elegant, compact, and beautifully engineered, the Canon P remains one of the finest Leica Thread Mount rangefinders ever made. Highly regarded by collectors and film photographers alike, it offers timeless styling, exceptional mechanical craftsmanship, and access to one of the richest ecosystems of classic rangefinder lenses.