Photographica Pages

An online guide to collectable cameras and related stuff

19/3.5 Canon FL R (retrofocus)

Canon replaced the 19mm mirror lock up lens with a retrofocus version, which allowed through the lens viewing. At this point, Nikon only had their mirror lock-up 21/4 Nikkor, and nobody else that I am aware of had a wider rectalinear retrofocus lens for a 35mm camera at that time.

Although it has threads on the front rim, it was designed to accept Series IX filters in a speacial adapter. No shade was offered.

The R in the designation refers to retrofocus, which is a wide angle design which allows enough distance between the rear element and the film for a mirror to travel. It is basically a telephoto lens used backwards.

Introduced	November 1965	Filter Size	Series 9
Construction	11 Elements in 9 Groups	Cap Size	80mm
Angle of View	96 Degrees	Shade	None
Minimum Aperture	f/16	Case	Special
Weight	500g	List Price, May 1971	$289.50

The 19/3.5 Canon FL R, with case and box.

The rear of the lens.

The 19/3.5 Canon FL R, mounted on an FT.

The Series IX filter adapter, with box..

The box.

The case.