Topcon RE Super Tokyo Kogaku 35mm SLR Film Camera Body Chrome Spares Repair

Description

The Topcon RE Super (also known as the Beseler Topcon Super D) by Tokyo Kogaku is a landmark 35mm system SLR camera, celebrated as the world's first SLR with full-aperture TTL (through-the-lens) light metering via a meter grid built directly into the reflex mirror. Built to high professional standards, it features interchangeable pentaprism viewfinders, Exakta bayonet lens mount, mechanical cloth focal-plane shutter with speeds up to 1/1000s, self-timer, exposure meter switch, and accessory shoe mounting ring around the rewind crank. Serial number 4620483. 

Condition

Overall Condition: Good

Cosmetically in  good vintage condition showing light handling marks, surface scuffs, and minor outer chrome wear consistent with age. Shutter fires and mechanical film advance lever operates, with shutter speeds varying appropriately across settings. Interchangeable pentaprism viewfinder is present and focus screen is intact. The internal battery compartment shows  corrosion and oxide residue inside the chamber (as shown in detailed photographs); Despite this the meter appears to be working.

Included

• Topcon RE Super 35mm SLR Camera Body Only (Serial No. 4620483)
• Removable Topcon Pentaprism Viewfinder

Key Features

• Historic professional 35mm mechanical system SLR camera body
• World's first full-aperture TTL metering system with meter elements integrated into the mirror
• Exakta bayonet lens mount compatible with Tokyo Kogaku Topcor and Exakta optics
• Interchangeable viewfinder system (pentaprism, waist-level finders)
• Horizontal cloth focal-plane shutter with speeds from 1s to 1/1000s plus Bulb
• Built-in mechanical self-timer, mirror lock-up, and motor drive coupling socket on baseplate

Collector's Notes

First introduced in 1963 by Tokyo Kogaku, the Topcon RE Super is a true milestone in camera engineering. Beating the Nikon F Photomic and Olympus OM systems to market with full-aperture TTL metering integrated right onto the mirror pattern, it was widely adopted by the US Navy and professional photojournalists in the 1960s. High-build quality and solid brass/steel construction make these cameras popular projects for vintage camera restoration enthusiasts.

Keywords

Topcon RE Super, Beseler Topcon Super D, Tokyo Kogaku, Vintage 35mm SLR, Exakta Mount SLR, Mechanical Film Camera, Spares Repair Topcon