Firstcall Photographic

Praktica MTL3 35mm Film SLR w/Pentacon Auto 50mm f1.8 MC

Praktica MTL3 35mm Film SLR w/Pentacon Auto 50mm f1.8 MC - Main image
$84.35 $118.8 In stock

Category: Photographic Equipment Cameras

The iconic Praktica MTL3 was Praktica's classic entry level film SLR, which gained a very high popularity among photography students due to its rugged build and low price.


The Praktica MTL 3 was made in East Germany by Pentacon, using the 42mm screw mount. It was produced between 1978 and 1984 and based on the LTL 3. It's a solidly made and we sell it because it is a fully manual camera that teaches necomers to film photography the essentials of light control without an auto button. It's also fully repairable unlike so many other big brand alternatives.


In many ways, its features very similar to the Pentax K1000 and it is an equally heavy camera. However, on the plus side it's one of the cheapest entry SLR cameras for students of film photography.


Technical Specifications


Film Format: 35 mm


Material: metal


ISO Setting: ISO 12 to ISO 1600


Viewfinder: SLR-type (ground glass, microprism spot)


Flash: hot shoe


Lens: M42 screw-mount Auto Pentacon 50 mm f/1.8-16 multi-coated lens


Shutter Speed: B, 1 second to 1/1000, sync at 1/125


Aperture: f/1.8 to f/16


Focusing: focus ring


Meter: Automatic exposure control system


Power: 1 x 1.35v PX625 mercury cell


Weight: 561.3 g (body only) 754.1 g (Pentacon 50 mm lens)

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Customer Reviews (4.6 / 5 · 5 reviews)

Charlotte ★★★★★

The shutter sound is so satisfyingly mechanical—exactly what I hoped for in a classic film camera. I’ve already shot three rolls with the Pentacon 50mm f1.8, and the sharpness in the center is impressive for the price.

Stella ★★★★★

The build quality is solid, and that 50mm f1.8 lens gives such sharp results for a kit lens. I've been using it for street photography, and the rugged body handles all the bumps.

Leo C. ★★★★★

The auto exposure mode on the Pentacon lens makes nailing focus a breeze even for a beginner like me. I love the rugged metal build, it feels like it could survive a drop.