Vivitar V3800 Vintage Camera

Description

The Vivitar V3800N is a vintage 35mm SLR camera that was produced during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Unlike some of the older, fully mechanical cameras from the mid-20th century, the V3800N is considered a more modern film camera, though it still retains a largely manual operation, making it popular among photography students and enthusiasts looking for a hands-on film photography experience.

Key Features:

• Lens Mount: The Vivitar V3800N uses the Pentax K mount, which is compatible with a wide range of lenses, both vintage and modern. This mount was originally developed by Pentax and has been widely adopted, giving users access to many affordable lenses.
• Shutter: The camera features a vertical-travel, focal-plane shutter with speeds ranging from 1/2000 second to 1 second, plus Bulb mode for long exposures. The high top shutter speed of 1/2000 second is a notable feature, allowing for shooting in bright conditions with wide apertures.
• Light Meter: The V3800N has a built-in light meter that operates in manual mode. The meter is powered by a battery and displays exposure information in the viewfinder, typically using a simple LED indicator system.
• Viewfinder: The viewfinder is an optical, through-the-lens (TTL) type, showing approximately 92% of the frame. It includes split-image focusing aids and microprism to assist with manual focusing.
• Film Advance: Manual film advance lever, with a film rewind crank. It’s fully mechanical, so the camera can operate without batteries, although the light meter requires batteries to function.
• Build Quality: The camera is mostly plastic but has a solid feel with a rubberized grip, making it comfortable to hold. It’s lightweight and portable, ideal for students and beginners.

Collectibility and Use:

The Vivitar V3800N is still relatively easy to find on the second-hand market, and it’s often recommended for beginners in film photography due to its straightforward controls and reliable performance. While it lacks some of the advanced features of more modern cameras, its manual operation provides a great way to learn the fundamentals of photography.

Usage Note: The camera’s manual nature means that photographers must set both aperture and shutter speed, making it a good learning tool for understanding exposure. The built-in light meter can help guide these settings, but users have full control over the exposure decisions.

The Vivitar V3800N is a durable, no-frills SLR that continues to be appreciated by those who enjoy the tactile experience of film photography. Its compatibility with the extensive range of Pentax K-mount lenses also adds to its versatility, making it a practical choice for both new and experienced photographers.

Note: We are just like other vintage and antique camera collectors, we buy cameras from different people and markets and places. We do not test, inspect or repair the cameras. We just sell them as we get. Please check the images and videos for better knowledge of the cameras. ONCE PURCHASED WILL NOT BE TAKEN BACK OR REFUNDED! So please check them before placing any orders,

The camera is packed securely and shipped immediately once ordered.

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