Zenit 19

The Zenit 19 is the top of the range of Zenit cameras, along with it's cousin, the 18 (the 18, weirdly, is a later version which features aperture priority mode along with manual and coventional control layout). The 19 is a totally seperate design to the E model decendents, the 11, 12, 12XP and 122(K). This includes a totally new electric shutter which gives a complete range of shutter speeds from 1 second to 1/1000, plus a B setting. The flash synch is also improved, working at 1/60 or 1/125 depending on the type.

There are two types of 19, the earlier models synch at 1/60, the later one at 1/125. Some later model units also had a differnt prism that featured split image focusing, whilst the earlier models usually feature micro-raster focusing. Other than these minor differences, the two models are the same, and in Zenit literature no differentiation is made between the variants.

The 19 also features a cable release socket on the shutter release, a lockable shutter release catch, tripod mount, hotshoe, depth of field preview, a TTL meter which displays readout through a needle in the viewfinder, and self timer.

The controls for the camera are a little weird and take a bit of getting used to. The depth of field and light meter are not activated by half pressing the shutter release, but by a separate button on the front of the camera below the self timer. Also, the film speed selection dial is on the bottom base of the camera, and it can be knocked when mounting on a tripod, so be aware of this and take care.

The self timer is clockwork and not battery dependent, but the shutter is electrical in this model, and without battery power it will only fire at 1/1000th. The shutter on the 19 is much lighter than on other Zenits (besides the 18), and it can be fired by accident, so the locking catch is more of a necessity than a luxury. Sometimes the catch can get knocked into the lock position by accident when adjusting the speed, so be aware of this.

The film advance mechanism is different to the E, 11, 12 and 122 models and is stiffer, and it doesn't wind as far round (much less than the 270 degrees of the others) so don't be surprised. It isn't broken, just different! The rewind procedure is the same, necessitating the holding down of the shutter and small blue release button immediately in front of it, whilst winding back the film. It sounds complicated and fiddly, but it is actually easy once mastered. Loading the film is very easy thanks to deep strong mental sprockets.

The 19 takes M42 Pentax mount lenses, and was originally supplied with a 50mm Zenitar f1.7 lens, which is very solid and gives great results.

Handling is quite different to the 12 or 122. The camera is slightly bigger and heavier, and the shutter release has less travel and is more responsive, giving less chance of camera shake. However, the shutter does give a strong "kick" when it's fired, so on slow exposure be braced ready for it.

Focusing with the micro raster takes some getting used to if you have used split screen focusing before, but once mastered it is just a good, but be sure to put a test roll through first whilst you adapt to it. Handling the camera is pleasant and the controls are large enough to be easy to use, and very straightforward. The camera is reassuringly heavy and firm, making it easy to hold steady. The controls and mechanisms all feel solid, firm, and reassuring. The viewfinder is bright and clear, and offers a 90%+ coverage of actual exposure area. The light meter uses a simple moving needle to indicate correct exposure (straight horizontal is OK, up is over exposure, down is under exposure). Dead simple.

Note: The film speed is limited to ASA500 with the 19, as with other old style Zenits.

Note that the camera is fully manual and has no auto focus or aperture priority programmes.

The batteries needed for the 19 are not always stocked by camera shops, but watch makers and jewellers, as well as electronics shops stock them, and they are affordable. The 19 isn't that power hungry anyway, especially compared to modern digital cameras!

Price wise it varies somewhat. I got a 19 complete with three lenses, teleconverter, flashgun and solid storage/travel case for just over £20 on Ebay.

Known weaknesses: The 19 is built like a tank, but since the units are fairly old, things to watch out for are cameras that have been left in the attic with batteries in them that have corroded the battery compartment. Also, failed hotshoe contacts (both of these are easy to fix) and light proof felt seals decaying (again easy to fix with new felt. Any one can do this themselves very easily).