Le Canon Canonet QL17 G-III : Un Classique de la Photographie Télémétrique

The Canon Canonet QL17 G-III: A Classic of Rangefinder Photography

Among the iconic rangefinder cameras of the 1970s, the Canon Canonet QL17 G-III stands out for its combination of performance, compactness, and user-friendliness. Popular with both amateurs and professionals, it is often nicknamed the "poor man's Leica" due to its remarkable quality at an affordable price.

1. History of the Canonet QL17 G-III

Launched in 1972, the Canonet QL17 G-III is the third generation of Canon's Canonet series. Produced until 1982, it enjoyed considerable success with approximately 1.2 million units sold over an 11-year period.
This longevity is a testament to its popularity and reliability.

2. Technical Specifications

  • Objective : Fixed 40mm with a maximum aperture of f/1.7, composed of 6 elements in 4 groups.

  • Shutter : Copal with speeds ranging from 1/4 s to 1/500 s, plus a B setting for long exposures.

  • Exposure system : Speed ​​priority with full manual control capability, facilitating great creative flexibility.

  • Film loading : Equipped with Canon's "Quick Load" (QL) system, simplifying and speeding up film loading.

  • Dimensions and weight : Compact with dimensions of 120 x 75 x 60 mm and a weight of 620 g, ideal for street photography and travel.

3. Highlights of the Canonet QL17 G-III

  • Optical Quality : Its bright 40mm f/1.7 lens offers excellent sharpness and pleasing bokeh, performing well even in low light conditions.

  • Ease of use : The QL quick-loading system and shutter-priority exposure mode make it intuitive to use, even for beginners.

  • Robust Construction : Despite its compact size, the device is solidly built, ensuring durability appreciated by traveling photographers.

4. Considerations for Current Users

  • Power supply : Originally designed to use a PX625 mercury battery, now obsolete, alternatives such as alkaline or zinc-air batteries are available, although exposure adjustments may be required.

  • Maintenance : Over time, problems such as light leaks or shutter malfunctions may occur. Regular professional maintenance is recommended to ensure optimal performance.

Conclusion

The Canon Canonet QL17 G-III remains a popular choice for film photography enthusiasts, offering a perfect balance of image quality, portability, and ease of use. Whether you're a collector or an active photographer, this iconic camera deserves a prominent place in your kit.





Back to blog

Contact form