Praktica MTL 3 35mm SLR

Praktica MTL 3 35mm SLR - Good Condition | Classic East German Manual Focus Film Camera with M42 Mount

The Praktica MTL 3 is a solid and dependable East German 35mm SLR that represents the best of the Praktica tradition — robust, reliable, and built to last. Produced by VEB Pentacon in Dresden, the MTL 3 combines a fully mechanical shutter with TTL (Through The Lens) open aperture metering — a practical and accurate metering system that works seamlessly with a vast range of M42 mount lenses. Built around the universal M42 screw mount, it gives access to one of the widest ranges of vintage lenses ever produced — from Carl Zeiss Jena and Meyer-Optik Görlitz to virtually every M42 lens made during the golden era of film photography. A characterful and practical film body that rewards any photographer who gives it a chance.

Key Features

• M42 screw mount — compatible with a vast range of vintage and modern M42 lenses
• TTL open aperture metering for accurate and reliable exposure measurement
• Fully mechanical shutter — operates without battery for reliable shooting in any condition
• Manual exposure control for full creative freedom
• Solid and robust East German construction built to last
• Bright and clear viewfinder
• Self-timer function
• A genuine piece of East German photographic history from VEB Pentacon Dresden

Condition Report

• Body: Good condition — light handling marks consistent with age and use, no cracks or damage
• Sensor/Optics: Viewfinder clear and bright; focusing screen in good order
• Mechanics/Electronics: Shutter fires correctly across all speeds; all controls and film transport functioning as expected

"The Praktica MTL 3 is one of those cameras that deserves far more recognition than it typically receives. The M42 mount opens up an extraordinary world of affordable vintage glass, the TTL metering is genuinely practical, and the all-metal build quality is reassuringly solid. For anyone who wants to explore the golden era of film photography without spending a fortune, the MTL 3 is a thoroughly rewarding starting point."

What's Included

• Praktica MTL 3 camera body
• Body cap 
• Neck strap

Technical Specifications

• Brand: Praktica (VEB Pentacon)
• Model: MTL 3
• Serial Number: Not available
• Mount: M42
• Film Format: 35mm (135)
• Exposure Modes: Manual
• Metering: TTL open aperture
• Shutter Speed: 1s – 1/1000s + Bulb
• ISO Range: ISO 12–1600
• Viewfinder: approx. 0.88x magnification, 92% coverage
• Built-in Flash: No — PC sync socket
• Self-timer: Yes
• Dimensions: approx. 143 x 94 x 53mm
• Weight: approx. 590g (without battery)
• Type: 35mm SLR Camera
• Category: Cameras
• Condition: Like New