Chinon CM-5
Back to main
Camera Manual page
This Chinon CM-5 is a very capable camera. This made in Japan SLR, utilizing
the Pentax K mount, will make a superior
back-up body, or a great starter or student camera. It's manual shutter
needs no batteries, and the meter is powered by common 1.5 volt cells (two
MS-76). It has Chinon's variant of the Copal square shutter, and as such it
seems to flash sync. at 1/60 sec. It has a full range of shutter speeds from 1
sec. to 1/1000 and an ASA range of 25 to 1600. The meter display consists of 3
LED's at the viewfinder, indicating over, under, and correct exposure. The body
will accept a power winder. (the Chinon PW530 or 600) The action grip on the
front is removable and will also hold 2 spare batteries underneath. The
self-timer is tripped by the same lever used to set it, not the shutter button.
I have to mention the viewfinder: It's exceptionally bright and contrast, with
a high eyepoint. In this respect and others, it's easily got more functionality
than a K-1000. You can use all your Pentax 49mm filters on the 50mm f/1.9 lens,
a fine performer if not exactly a Pentax SMC! My overall impression is that this
is a dependable, well-made, light weight camera with a very crisp, low-impact
shutter action and a brilliant viewfinder. About the only complaint I have is the
shutter-activated meter display is turned on only when you've pushed down almost
to the point of tripping the shutter.
