I still own the OM-1n I bought in 1976, I want to be buried with it, it has been so close to my heart for 40+ years. The viewfinder has not been matched in all this time, it is still the greatest. The camera is a jewel, and yes I agree the only shortcoming is the film advance feel - but isn't every jewel flawed in some way? Thank you for your great video, the production quality is awesome!

Max this is an extremely detailed review of this vintage camera. I can only imagine the amount of research it took. It's not easy to talk at length about each part for me without having to do many retakes. The good thing about you doing a thorough review like this is your video will become a benchmark and the source of information for this camera for as long as KZfaq lives. And beyond that it sets your channel apart from others who review cameras sitting indoors and never take it into the field. Perfect job

Your production is at the level of Discovery Channel quality. And the music choice 🙌 Perhaps you need a bigger deadcat for your mic. Otherwise 10/10

One of the best cameras ever made so simple to use

Not only highly informative, but beautifully produced, with nice choice of music, effectively mixed into your narration. The black and white images of the aircraft were exquisite in their sharpness and tonality. As always, keep these fine reports coming. Alles gute!

I’ve just bought a second-hand one, seeing this has made me even more excited to use it now 😍

I just got it today, as my first film camera and I’m sooooooo excited to learn and shoot with it!!!

One of my favourite KZfaq Channels and thanks for making this video. I am inspired to get out my OM1 for the weekend.

I must have seen this video more than 10 times. The production quality, (that piano sound track gives me goose bumps), material and history and of course Max keeps me coming back. Made me buy a mint OM1 coming from Japan. Max keep the videos coming, u really have a great personality and love how u speak from off the top of your head.

So pleased to have found your quality videos. You guys are the main reason I have returned to film, after a break of fifteen years I now shoot more film than digital and enjoying every minute of it.

just purchased an om1 so I appreciate your review - thanks

I loved your video. In college, my first SLR was an OM-1 so this took back. It was a fine camera and though I've used other brands since then, I still have a soft place in my heart for the Olympus SLRs.

This is one of my love! I own a second hand one for like 9 years, always full of suprise to me

This is such a great detailed video of the Olympus OM-1. It’s top of my list of favorite film cameras and always go back to this video as motivation. Look forward to more videos!

You've made me miss my Olympus OM-1. I LOVE analogue photography!

Another artistic and informative review. The format that you use; videographer showing your at work and then posting a still image of what you had just shot is unique, very pleasing and, IMHO, outshines many other reviewers on YT. In 1980, I shot my way through Japan using my father's OM1 (I was just 31 years old at that time). The photographs were truly beautiful in rendering and color. I still have those slides in my Carousel trays today. I used Kodak Kodachrome 64. As I had had previous experience w/all manual cameras prior to using the OM1, I found it easy to use: I would set the shutter speed and then adjust the aperture via the viewfinder's meter. Not having anything in the viewfinder except the meter was terrific, as it left me to compose, focus and shoot. It left the artistic side of me to enjoy the experience. Last week I purchased one from ebay, as it was in near mint condition. I also came with a Zuiko 5mm f1.8 lens (the same one I used in Japan). So, it sits on my desk (home) for me to truly admire.

The Olympus OM1 is the only reflex camera that I use. I'm a rangefinder shooter but OM1 has such a beautiful, large and clear viewfinder that helps a lot in taking pictures. The design of the camera, its size and the disposition of commands are just awesome. I love the "creamy" look the lenses give to B&W films. Great video.

One of the best videos i've watched. could listen to that voice forever:)

A very good review, and I like the way you include both the story about the camera and your personal story about it.

Thank you for this excellent video. Sometimes I watch videos more than once but this I have watched four or five times. The balance of information and photos, to me, is just right. I have watched repeatedly not so much for the information-I have been using an OM1 already for some time now-but for the beautiful photographs. Kudos to Max and Jules. I look forward to more Analog Insights videos.

Love this museum! Been there so many times, but it's always worth the trip.

I have had an OM-1 for years. then not used it in years, when you mentioned the viewfinder I got it out and had a look. I had forgotten it was this good to look through and how good this camera feels. Makes me want to get some film and use it again!

What superb film, love all your thoughts and description of this camera, so inspired now to source one of these beauties 👍

I just saw this presentation now. This is a wonderful review of a camera that I did not own but wished I had. Thank you. RS. Canada

Thank you guys for all of your nice work and Sharing your great knowledge. I really enjoy. And it brings back a lot of great camera shop memories. My first camera was a used Canon TX that I worked for and made payments on from a pawn shop.

I'm new to your channel but I'm absolutely loving your videos. Very high class and tasteful, and you have such a fantastic voice. Thank you so much.

6 year old video but i bought the OM-1 back in 2012 at second hand store for 250 euros. I still use it, and even more, i use it more often than my expensive Leica m6 that i also bought at second hand store for 2000 euros😂 i will take my OM-1 everywhere with me for 12 years❤ it is my first film camera.

I bought my first OM1 in 1976. Loved it. It took great, great images. Then it was stolen from my apartment. Now 45 years later I bought my second OM1.... with a 24, 50, 75-150 zoom and a 300mm lens. The whole package!! Just waiting for the conversion to make the meter work with 1.5 v batteries and I'll be out and about enjoying taking FILM pictures again. Digital just doesn't have the soul of a film camera... people are discovering that... just as vinyl records are becoming popular again... who would have figured it 10 years ago!! HA!!!! Thanks for an awesome video!!!!

Love your work! Appreciate a lot for your patient explaination !

thank you for sharing your thoughts, very informative. After some research, your video convinced me to pick one up. Can't wait to shoot it.

This video is so soothing. Your calm, warm energy. Your perfect music choice. The beautiful images. Really taking the time to do and show things. I'm sick today but this is healing me ;-)

Stunning presentation of a lovely iconic camera. I too own the OM-1, but don’t get out and about with it as much as I should. Seeing your inspirational video has reinvigorated and encouraged me to get using again thank you. David

OM-1 was also my first SLR! Fond memories and excited to see more of your awesome videos. Just happened upon this channel after watching your review of the Mamiya 645 which I just purchased. Thank you for the best insights on traditional photography!

Very well done review, I’d say the best. Have a Olympus Pen FT so I am hooked on Olympus cameras. Have not used 35mm for a while but been wanting to again ,so thanks for talking me into getting one of these .I love the size of the Olympus cameras.

thank you for the awesome hommage I loved my OM 2. WHAT A BEAUTIFUL PRESENT :) Perfectly chosen spot - wonderful edgy designed camera system fitting these interesting technical round subjects out of similar looking materials Leading lines... nice framing and scaling - well done! Looking forward to see a new video soon!

Nice video on a classic. Belated Happy Birthday to Jules

A completely wonderful video, I have a chance to buy the OM 1n, I'm going for it. The OM 1 is just a work of art and a joy to behold, thank you.

Great channel: actually my favourite! Also, I really liked this review, as I am one of the many OM-1 lovers. You are doing great!

That was my first SLR camera bought it in 1978 when I was 13 had to go in half with my older brother. Hey that was a lot of money back then for some one just entering the 7th grade. Anyway great camera I still have it to this day though I no longer shoot with it, I am strictly a digital camera guy now. The 50mm f1.8 Olympus lens I still very much use with one of my Sony cameras great lens very nice images through it. Back then we didn't have review videos on KZfaq showing us all the good and bad products we just had magazines lots of photo mags I read to learn everything I could. Not only about the gear but how to shoot photos. Then photography classes I took to really learned, but in class we used the old Pentax K1000 which was a bulky bass ackwards pain in the rear to use compare to my sleek OM 1.

Belated happy birthday Jules! Lucky you! OM1 G! Another great show, you both make a great team .. keep at it!

Another great production guys! It is a pleasure to follow your channel. I also have an OM-1 "converted" to 1.5 volts, It is totally worth it. And yes, i agree.... The wind lever action has a notchy, grinding feel which is really one of the few shortcomings. All the best. Please keep on going. matteo Ps i have little twins and we called the boy Max :-)

Excellent photo of best buds,Max and Jules.

In his archived speech in 2007 (or 2009, basically in the 2000s), Yoshihisa Maitani mentioned that the mirror for the OM-1 was oversized for the body and coated in silver so as to accommodate a bright image throughout all focal lengths up to 200mm without vignetting. Also the flange diameter of the lens mount is hilariously large in proportion to the camera's size, making it look as if the camera was built around the lens mount. The shutter mechanism used cords instead of ribbons allegedly using the same material that Japanese fishermen use for their fishing nets. Finally, the mirror return mechanism was air-dampened to return that signature high-frequency noise that SLRs often do. Owning one after an impulse purchase this year was many best impulse buy so far. Using it alongside a Leica IIIf was seamless, for both ran and were designed with the same usability principles in mind. And at times the OM-1 would be quieter than the IIIf. All in all, the OM-1 is a great camera to own for the advanced user who wants a unique camera built to the highest standards

Your review came up in KZfaq because I own 3 digital Olympus cameras. I'm guessing that the small size of the original OM1 is a value that Olympus continued in the 4/3 factor for smaller cameras. I have an OM E 1 with several lenses . . . I love it. I also have a camera from my father, now passed away, a Zeiss Ikon Contina 1953. He purchased it the year of my birth. Beautiful presentation, detailed and complete. Handsome presenter and nice turtle neck (originally from the 1960's?). Thank you, well done!

Super video and always good to see some classic 35mm featured. Although after each video I feel the need for another visit to Germany.....

Excellent. Thanks. I was given an OM1 by a family member who had no need for it. This presentation just fell upon my KZfaq line-up because I subscribe to your channel. I am delighted and grateful for the service tips. Yes, that battery issue affects a lot of my equipment because I really like the Gossen analogue light meters, all of which need the now discontinued 1.35 volt cell. What a sad story that is. There is an adapter available which fits in the 1.35 compartment and converts it to 1.5v. Maybe it will fit in the OM1. .

I've also been amazed with the OM system since i got my OM1 and now own an OM1, OM2N, 35RC and OM2SP. But the OM1 i consider my best. Great video and content as always.

Hello Maxime how are you? It never ceases to amaze me the amount of time and effort you put into these reviews. My longest review is about 17 minutes of the Meyer Optik trioplan lens and honestly I don't think I want to do another video that long again LOL. They say if you're getting into KZfaq it's best to review things you love and not focus on becoming a viral Star and I think you are setting a good example in that regard. Respect

And they're back 👏 Nice video guys

Ooohh! Loved that shot at 2:05 ! Instant art.

Great review and many thanks for the recommendation of the OM Doktor. I had been looking for another OM1, as it was my first slr, and I traded it in for an OM 2 many years ago. I still have my Om 2 and my late father's Om 4Ti but wanted another good OM 1. After watching your review I contacted Frank and he has supplied me with a beautiful OM 1 fully serviced and with the battery conversion done. Over the moon and can't wait to get some film in it and get shooting. Thanks again and keep up the good work. J

I bought my first OM-1 new in the mid 70s together with a couple of Zuiko lenses and other Olympus accessories. These were sold when I had a young family. Last week I bought an OM-2N. This week an OM-2 and I have made an offer on an OM-1. Plus a T32, bounce grip and other accessories. Ebay is too addictive. OMs worked for me on so many levels in the 70s and, I’m sure, will do so again. They might not be perfect but they’re not far off. Stunning videos, by the way.

ya, this camera is legendary and underrated. I only discovered it well into my 30's and is currently my vintage camera of choice (the OM2n to be specific, although I've owned the OM1 as well).

Just got this as my first analog camera, this review is very helpful. Thanks :)

Just picked up an OM-1 at an Estate Sale. It appears to be in excellent condition. 1.35 volt batteries are still available here (they are air activated non mercury types) and can hardly wait to run some film through it! Will have to find an owner's manual on line, however. Thanks for the video. Keep up the good work.

Excellent. I just loaded my first roll of B&W into an old OM-1 I picked up in a garage sale. From the shores of Georgian Bay, Ontario, Canada hanks for the review and tips.

Thanks for the amazing review, and you are a skilled photographer

Brilliant review. Best one by far that I've seen of the OM4Ti. I intend to do I review of my OM4T at some stage but I just know it won't be as good as yours. Very professional.

For anyone who might be wondering about the music pieces here: the piano piece is called "Angel Song" by Martin Landh, and the acoustic guitar piece is "We Were Dancing in the Dark" by Loving Caliber. Cheers. Great review too. Can't wait to get my hands on the OM-1 very very soon! :)

I put mine on my telescope decades ago and it is still in the case with the accessories. Grat camera!

The shot at 11:30 made me gasp. Such beautiful colors!

Thanks for your tip. I've had an OM2n since 1978. Now I have bought an OM1n from Mr. Timmann (OM doctor) and I am thrilled. In the meantime I have also bought an OM4Ti from Mr. Timmann. Thank you for your videos.

man that developing and scanning is great, image quality looks amazing for 400asa

I impulsively picked up my OM-1n back in February after stumbling upon this video. I was shooting digital for awhile with an OM-D E-M10 II but I had an itch to return to film for the longest. The g.a.s. kept saying, go full manual, full mechanical. I was able to assemble a kit off multiple eBay purchases (OM-1n body, 28/3.5, 50/1.8, 135/3.5) all for less than what an FM2 would cost, the camera I initially wanted. A month abroad and 7 rolls in, I have no regrets! Though now I'm eyeing an OM-4T(i) if only to try the spot metering. =) Long live film and long live the Cult of Zuiko!

Great video Max! You gave me the perfect gift idea for a friend. Thanks!

Man, this is a top notch review!

First, thank you for a fantastically done review. I found it interesting, however, that you found the film advance to be a shortcoming. I love the silky smooth action of the lever and it has never failed me. A wonderful camera!

I’ve been to that museum in the intro! What a cool place

Thank you so much for this video - convinced me into buying this camera for my best friend :) I'm so excited to surprise her with this!

I have just watched this. Eine ausgezeichnete Film!!! I am 56 and first was bought the OM-1 in 1976. I sold it in 1987 but bought another yesterday in August 2022. I watched your film and wanted one. Then I remembered I have it already!!!😂

Once again it was a big pleasure to watch your video. Even as I remember the OM1 very well. I was faced to the decision of buing an OM1 or a Pentax KX in the mid of the 70s. I ´ ve choosen the Pentax, which I still have in use, without any regrets but the Olympus still excites me. Looking forward to your next video. Best regards, Greg

New content please. Love your Work and take on sharing your thought process and photography insight! 🤘🏽💯

When the OM-1 came out i was impressed by its size i was then using a Topcon Super D and/or a Mamiya/Sekor 1000dtl. Both much larger 35mm cameras.

Great video! For anyone watching - the OM-10 is very similar but will auto set a shutter speed for you (so it is basically aperture priority, still with manual focus). I am very happy with both my OM-1 and OM-10 cameras, and I use them both when I want different experiences (OM-1 is slower, more intentional).

Great video. I am in the UK and a Nikon mirrorless shooter, however, I had an Olympus Om-10 back in the 1980s and early '90s. I have just decided to dip back into film for the fun and challenge of taking photographs without the aid of all the technologies built into my Z9 & Z8 cameras and so, earlier today, ordered a secondhand OM-1(N) from my local trusted reseller. Looking forward to getting my hands on it and seeing how i get on after all these digital years.

I have the black version of the om-1 extremely happy with the performance. I developed couple of rolls myself I didn’t get great results, so I’m not sure if it’s the camera, my settings or the developing process. I’m not sure how to upload a raw picture without any editing so could see. I’m pretty sure you’d have the best advice for me! Great video btw! Thanks a lot for sharing.

Yes!!! I love other photographers who specialize in my field of aviation photography!!!

Glad to see your video. I have two OM1's and an OM2.

Your voice is so soothing! Great review

I subscribed right away. I am getting a great deal on one of these next week - wasn’t sure if I should buy yet another camera. But after this I think I will!

When I got back into film after many years absence I was only interested in medium format. However, I soon decided to pick up a small 35mm and purchased a OM-1 and later a OM-2. After a while being a old Nikon guy I picked up a FM and FE. I liked the more solid feel of the Nikons however after a year both developed issues. It would cost more to fix them then they are worth. I didn't give up on Nikon just went to a professional grade and picked up a F3. Going back to the Olympus they just keep going strong and the cameras and lenses are still bargains while Nikon equipment has gone way up in price.

love it!

I'm a bit late here, but an OM1 some trains, planes and autombiles and yes....life is good. Excellent video 👍

das beste Review dass ich je gesehen habe🤯

This is my only camera (for now) it's beautiful - a real gem and it's a workhorse as well.

Fantastic video as usual! I should shoot my OM1 more often, you have inspired me :). My only small criticism of this camera is, I find it a bit difficult to hold while focussing las there is no grip to speak of, but other than this, it really is a beautiful piece of equipment, both functionally as well as cosmetically.

The film advance on my copy is pretty good.I also have an OM4Ti which does have a poor film advance.

Very nice and charming camera. Small, well done and built and big when you look inside the viewfinder. I don t know how they were able to do this and I even less understand why the other brands didn t succeed in copying it. It’s so pleasant to use ! The only thing I don t like is the way of changing the speed around the lens. I permits to change the speed without leaving the viewfinder but it putshes to many actions on the left hand according to me and doesn tfree any space as you can mix on a single knob. The fact it’s a semi automatic doesn t help him too much even if the price of the films nowadays makes as be quiet and not in a hurry when taking pictures, but also true that the om-2 with its amazing ( and first in time) flash ttl and automatic mode can be more attractive. Thanks to share with us this important part of history of film,camera which inspires later all the compact lines including Nikon fm, Pentax Mx, canon AE1…

Small size and quiet shutter compare similar cameras really makes these very special.

Wow. Absolutely stunning video. I agree with you about the film advance lever. It's the same in many of the follow up OMs. There's that kind of slightly insecure wind action that sometimes makes you unsure if you've advanced an entire frame or not.

Great video again. Thank you :)

The underexposed turbine was actually my favorite photo!

Was just reading about Jane Bown who took the Queen’s 80th birthday photo. Jane was working that day at Buckingham palace with two Olympus OM1’s that were already 40 years old. It’s a lovely b&w portrait using just available light.

Great video and really nice relevant review.

Thanks, that was a fantastic video. Quite exceptional.

great camera, you may also add that it's pretty robust as I know from dropping mine off my bicycle many years ago and it still worked (with a couple of dents). Thanks for the tip about the meter battery.

Thank you for the informative video.

Best camera ever made. Looks amazing all in black

Great in depth video as always. The Zenith E was my first film camera in the 70s because I couldn't afford much, and it was very hard when choosing my next camera. I really wanted the Olympus OM1, but again cost was a big consideration, and my final choice was the gorgeous little Pentax MX because I could get the motor drive for the difference in price of the two cameras. I don't regret not buying the OM1, but know that I'd of been a very happy OM1 owner if I had of bought it.

Like #200. I got a little depressed withthe music and also realizing I haven't been in a darkroom in well over 10 years, if not 15. Made me sad, but nice work as always and great review of a classic.