Canon VI-L

Canon produced the VI-L from 1958 to 1961. Production was reported to be 10,350 units. The L stands for lever rewind. There was also a VI-T. The T stands for trigger rewind located on the base.

The big improvements for the VI models were an improved viewfinder and integrated shutter speed dial. The VI still used a triple mode viewfinder like prior Cannon rangefinders, but with improved magnification. Most notable the 50mm viewfinder is now a 1:1 ratio. The other big change is the loss of a slow shutter speed dial. Now all the speeds up to 1/1000 (including B and X) are integrated into one dial. Both were great improvements but the VI came after the Leica M3, M2, and Nikon SP.

My Take:

Too bad for Canon that they were in third behind the Leica M and the Nikon SP. Both are great cameras and still worth shooting today. But for modern shooters, Canon’s loss can be your gain. If you want a vintage 1950s rangefinder experience, the Canon VI-T is a good option. They are tough and sell for a fraction of the SP or M. One thing to be aware of the viewfinder lines have not all aged well, some are prone to flare. The good news is you have access to all the nice Canon screw mount lenses and Leica screw mount lenses.

Lens: 35mm f1.5

Film: Ilford Delta 100