Konica C35 EF

Konica C35 EF Overview

The Konica C35 EF is the very first compact 35mm camera to feature a built-in flash. The “C35” in its name stands for “Compact 35mm” and the “EF” standing for “Electronic Flash.” In Japan, this camera is known by its nickname “Pikkari” which, as far as I can tell, translates roughly into “glittery brightness.”

The EF is constructed of metal and plastic which gives it nice, robust feel. It accepts a range of films from ISO 25 to ISO 400 and utilizes a fantastically sharp Hexanon 38mm f/2.8 lens that is preset to four different focus zones (1 meter, 1.5 meters, 3 meters, and infinity). Surprisingly, the shutter only has two speeds: 1/60 and 1/250 and can be put on a self-timer by adjusting the nob under the “EF” badge. The flash is activated by shifting the red arrow button towards the lens which makes it pop up.

In addition to this EF variant, I also own a Konica C35 EFP, its visually similar but technically inferior sister camera which has an all-plastic body and a slower, fixed-focus lens. Both of them were purchased on an online charity auction for approximately $10 each.