Seiki Canon. Canon Latest Model. Manufactured by Seiki Kōgaku Kōgyō (now Canon), this model was produced from 1939, through the war, until around 1946. Several significant changes were made from the Standard Model to the Latest Model. These include the serial number now being engraved on the top plate, the addition of slow shutter speeds, the frame counter moving from the front of the body to beneath the wind-up dial, and the top cover transitioning from a single-piece to a two-piece design. However, the influence of the Hansa Canon (Standard Model) remains, with features such as the pop-up viewfinder (the Bikkuribako) still intact.
Like the Hansa Canon, this model continued to use Nikkor lenses supplied by Nippon Kogaku (Nikon). Lens variations included the Nikkor 50mm f2, f2.8, f3.5, f4.5, and a special Regno Nikkor f2 lens for X-ray use. When changing lenses, adjustments needed to be made to match the camera body. This particular item comes with a Nikkor 50mm f2 lens with a collapsible barrel.
The depth of field scale on the mount starts at f2, and the lens offers seven aperture settings, with a maximum aperture of f16. These features are characteristic of the later versions of the Latest Model, and the body and lens of this item are historically accurate to the period.
It is said that around 1,600 units of the Seiki Canon were produced.
The rewind knob shows minimal wear, and the knob is slightly tilted. There are also some plating wear and small scratches on the bottom cover, along with some general wear and deterioration on various parts; however, the majority of the plating retains a strong, glossy shine. A full overhaul was completed in September 2024, and all functions are operating smoothly.
The included collapsible Nikkor 50mm f2 lens shows no major scratches and is in quite good condition considering its age. There is slight haze and minor cleaning marks on the front element, but the glass is still in good shape for a lens of this model.
The rangefinder exhibits a slight decrease in contrast, but it does not affect distance measuring. The pop-up viewfinder also provides a good viewing experience.
This is an early model from Canon, which would later become a leading camera manufacturer in Japan. It comes with a leather case, although the lens front cap is from a later period. A rare and valuable item.
