Praktica MTL 3 with Pentacon Auto 50mm f/1.8 MC

Praktica MTL 3 with Pentacon Auto 50mm f/1.8 MC - Good Condition | East German Mechanical Precision

The Praktica MTL 3 is a legendary 35mm SLR, built by Pentacon in Dresden with the robust, no-nonsense engineering of East Germany. Produced between 1978 and 1984, this all-mechanical workhorse is famous for its reliability and its use of the universal M42 screw mount. This kit comes paired with the celebrated Pentacon Auto 50mm f/1.8 Multi-Coating lens, known for its exceptional sharpness and beautiful "bokeh" rendering. Featuring a vertical-travel metal focal-plane shutter and a distinct side-mounted shutter release for improved ergonomics, the MTL 3 is a tactile masterpiece. It is the perfect entry point for students and enthusiasts who want to master the fundamentals of exposure with high-quality vintage glass.

Key Features

• Universal M42 screw mount for compatibility with a vast world of vintage optics

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

• Robust vertical-travel metal blade shutter (1s to 1/1000s + Bulb)

• Through-the-lens (TTL) light metering with a simple needle display in the viewfinder

• Instant-return mirror and unique side-angled shutter release for steadier handheld shots

• Microprism and split-image focusing screen for critical focus accuracy

Technical Specifications

• Camera Type: 35mm SLR Camera

• Lens Mount: M42 Screw Mount

• Shutter Speeds: 1s to 1/1000s + B

• ISO Range: 12 - 1600 (Manual setting)

• Category: Cameras ▸ 35mm SLR Camera

• Battery Type: 1x LR44 (Battery not provided, required for light meter only)

Specialist Note "The Praktica MTL 3 is often called the 'workhorse of the East' for a reason—it is built to last a lifetime. When you pair it with the 50mm f/1.8 Multi-Coated lens, you have one of the best value-for-money setups in film photography. The lens is particularly famous for its close-focusing ability (down to 0.33m), which is much better than most standard 50mm lenses of the era. This allows for incredible detail in portraits and nature shots. It’s a loud, mechanical, and deeply satisfying camera that makes every shot feel like an event."

Condition Report Good condition. The camera body shows normal signs of light use and minor brassing on the edges consistent with its vintage character. The shutter fires accurately at all speeds, and the light meter is responsive. The Pentacon 50mm lens has clear optics, free from fungus or haze, and the aperture blades are snappy and oil-free. The film transport and rewind mechanisms operate smoothly.

What's Included

• Praktica MTL 3 Camera Body

• Pentacon Auto 50mm f/1.8 MC Lens