Praktica MTL 5B with Pentacon 50mm f/1.8 MC

Praktica MTL 5B with Pentacon 50mm f/1.8 MC - Good Condition | The Reliable East German Classic

The Praktica MTL 5B is a quintessential mechanical SLR, representing the height of East German engineering from the VEB Pentacon factory. Known for its rugged reliability and distinctive "industrial" aesthetic, the MTL 5B is a favorite for those learning the art of film photography. This model features the ubiquitous M42 screw mount, providing access to a vast world of vintage lenses. Paired with the legendary Pentacon 50mm f/1.8 MC (Multi-Coated) lens, this kit delivers exceptional sharpness and a pleasing vintage character. With its straightforward vertical-travel metal shutter and intuitive match-needle metering, the MTL 5B offers a tactile and educational shooting experience that modern cameras simply cannot replicate.

Key Features

• Robust, all-metal mechanical body built for durability and longevity

• M42 Universal Screw Mount, compatible with hundreds of vintage lenses

• Vertical-travel metal focal-plane shutter for consistent performance

• Bright Pentacon 50mm f/1.8 MC lens with multi-coating for improved contrast and flare resistance

• Intuitive match-needle light meter viewed through the viewfinder

• Iconic side-mounted shutter release for ergonomic and stable handling

Condition Report

• Body: Good condition. Shows normal signs of previous use and minor vintage character consistent with its age.

• Sensor/Optics: The 50mm lens is in good used condition; glass is clear and free from fungus or significant haze.

• Mechanics/Electronics: Fully operational. Shutter speeds are accurate, the film advance is smooth, and the light meter is responsive.

Specialist Note "The Praktica MTL 5B is a 'no-nonsense' camera. It doesn't rely on complex electronics, which is exactly why so many of them are still working perfectly today. The Pentacon 50mm f/1.8 is a standout lens—it’s incredibly sharp for its class and the multi-coating on this specific version makes it much more capable in difficult lighting than the earlier zebra versions. It’s a heavy, satisfying piece of machinery that makes every shot feel intentional. Perfect for anyone who wants to learn the fundamentals on a camera that won't let them down."

What's Included

• Praktica MTL 5B Body (S/N: 010703)

• Pentacon 50mm f/1.8 MC Lens (S/N: 5048659)
  

Technical Specifications

• Camera Type: 35mm Single Lens Reflex (SLR)

• Lens Mount: M42 Screw Mount

• Shutter Speeds: 1 second to 1/1000th + Bulb

• Category: Cameras > Film Cameras

• Battery Type: 1x 1.5V LR44 (for meter only)