Zenit-e with Helios-44-2 58mm f/2

Zenit‑E with Helios‑44‑2 58 mm f/2 – Used Condition | Classic Soviet M42 SLR with Legendary Helios Bokeh

Brand: Zenit / KMZ (Krasnogorsk Mechanical Factory)

Introduction

The Zenit‑E is one of the most iconic Soviet‑era 35 mm SLR cameras, produced by KMZ in Russia from the 1960s through the 1980s. This mechanical camera is built around the universal M42 lens mount and features an in‑body selenium light meter for exposure guidance. Paired with the renowned Helios‑44‑2 58 mm f/2 standard lens, it is capable of producing images with rich color and the distinctive swirly bokeh that has earned the Helios global recognition among film and digital photographers alike.

Key Features

• 35 mm mechanical SLR camera with universal M42 mount.
• Helios‑44‑2 58 mm f/2 lens included (serial no. 7310742), famous for its smooth bokeh and sharp optics.
• Durable metal construction built for longevity and reliability.
• Fully manual operation — no batteries required for core functions.
• Built‑in selenium light meter (no external power needed).
• Shutter speeds from 1/30 s to 1/500 s + Bulb.
• Manual film advance and rewind for hands‑on film operation.

Condition Report

Body: Used condition; light signs of normal use with well‑preserved markings and engraving.
Lens (Helios‑44‑2): Glass clear and coating intact; focus and aperture rings move smoothly.
Mechanics/Electronics: Shutter, advance, and meter tested and in good working order.

Specialist Note

“A true Soviet classic — the Zenit‑E paired with the Helios‑44‑2 delivers the distinctive bokeh and authentic mechanical feel that make it a favorite of film shooters and collectors worldwide.”

What’s Included

• Zenit‑E camera body (serial no. 73135966)
• Helios‑44‑2 58 mm f/2 lens (serial no. 7310742)
  

Technical Specifications

• Category: 35 mm SLR Camera
• Lens Mount: M42 universal screw mount
• Film Format: 35 mm (24 × 36 mm)
• Shutter Type: Mechanical cloth focal‑plane shutter
• Shutter Speeds: 1/30 s – 1/500 s + Bulb
• Viewfinder: Optical pentaprism, manual focusing ground glass
• Light Meter: Built‑in selenium meter (no battery required)
• Lens Included: Helios‑44‑2 58 mm f/2 (M42 mount)
• Focus Type: Manual focus
• Aperture Range (lens): f/2 – f/16
• Minimum Focusing Distance: 0.5 m (1.6 ft)
• Filter Thread: 49 mm
• Body Material: All‑metal construction
• Weight: Approx. 870 g (without film)