AE-1 program or "normal AE-1

[Mr.canon]

Right. I can buy 2 cam's. One is a std AE-1 with 3 lenses. Std lens,wide angle and zoom. That one would cost 75€ and is a 45 min drive. The other one is a AE-1 Program with only 1 lens wich would be the 50mm? And is only 5 min walk So i have a bit of an dilemma here. I like the wide angle from the first one but the program is more advanced but that one only has the std lens and is a little damaged. What would you do?

 

[MFstooges]

If I were you I'll drive 45 min to get the AE1 w/o program. I don't think the program version is that advanced anyway.

 

[Mr.canon]

Well you can set the asa? Or thats what ive seen. Problem is i don't need the zoom lens. But he won't sell the cam without that lens.

 

[Mr.canon]

found another one. Undamaged. And with 4 lenses

CANON AE-1 Program Canon 50 mm 1:1.8 lens, Canon 28 mm 1:2.8 lens, Canon 35-70 mm 1:3.5-4.5 lens Sigma high speed 80-200 mm 1:3.5-4 lens. Agfatronic 261B flash

 

[Laurent]

I'd go for the AE1-P, for three reasons (of which two seem valid and one less ) :

1) it'll be more recent than the "plain" AE1
2) it has no needle for the display, which is one breakable component less (I like the LEDs of the AE1P, and they are easier to use in low light than the needle)
3) the AE1P was (and still is, still works fine 28 years later) my first "real" camera.

The AE1P is not very advanced but it has interchangeable focusing screens (without the need to send it to a camera tech person) and the display is quite nice (the brightness adapts to the light level, and the LEDs are behing the numbers, so that even in low light you can read the number perfectly)).

I also have a preference for the handling of the AE1P, if it has the small grip on the right face.

 

[Mr.canon]

Going to look for one this evening i hope. THe last one with the 4 lenses. Going to sell the zoom lens i think. Not going to use it.

 

[Francis in VT]

AE-1P

Everything Laurent said Plus.
The ergonomics of the "P" is much improved over the original.
The ASA is easier to set and the shutter speed can't be accidently changed by sloppy film winding. The "P" can take the motor drive not just a winder.

Francis in VT

 

[flatulent1]

The plain AE-1 over the program, every time. Much prefer the match-needle display over the LEDs. For that matter, I prefer the AT-1 over the AE-1, if you get a chance at one o' them.

 

[Mr.canon]

ok so i have never had one in my hands do be honest. So whats the match needle display? (i know sounds stupid)

 

[Dennis S]

Best to get the one that is convenient for you. Just get a camera then add the lenses that you need. The price of FD lenses seems to be creeping upwards so buying now would seem the best. But even slightly damaged lens is NOT a good thing.

 

[Mr.canon]

They are still really cheap here. As people seem to think everyone goes digital now. Well as i still have my 450D (wich isnt leaving) i like the look of 35mm photo's. Here the one i am going to pick up within the next 2 hours. 75euro and a 30min drive