Random Camera Blog: Comrade, Can I Interest You in a Zenit?

Shooting with the Zenit 12XP

Over the years, I have owned a few Zenits. My introduction to this line of Russian SLRs was with the Zenit E (made in the 1970s), which came in a leather never-ready case that smelled fairly awful. That was around 2001. I probably paid less than $20 for it. The viewfinder was a bit strange as well. I later had a Zenit EM (made in the 1970s-80s), and then a more modern, but plasticky Zenit 122 (1990s). That Zenit was certainly not as ruggedly built as its metal-bodied counterparts. The Zenit 12 XP that I have is now my only M42-mount camera. I bought it at an antique store in Negaunee, MI for $20 about 5 years ago. It came with a Helios 44M-4 58mm f/2 lens which is one of those lenses that seem to have a special endearing quality.

The Zenit E - my first Zenit, ca. 2002

My second Zenith, the Zenit EM, ca. 2006

Feature-wise, the Zenits are certainly not innovative, by any means. The 12XP features B, 1/30, 1/60, 1/125, 1/250, and 1/500 sec shutter speeds. It might be the Volkswagen of 35mm SLR cameras. It does feature a standard hot-shoe as well as a PC socket, self-timer, and a meter with diode indicators in the viewfinder. Metering is stop-down style -- a partial press of the shutter release will activate the meter and actuate the aperture. If the two diodes are lit simultaneously, then you probably have a correct exposure. The flash sync is at 1/30 sec! ISO ranges are from 16 to 500. The all-metal construction of the camera makes it tank-like, but even so, it’s easy to use. The 12XP was manufactured from 1983-1992, and over a million units were produced.

Back to the lens -- since the Helios 44M in its various incarnations was put on the Zenits, it may be the most common “normal” lens from a manufacturer out there, at least in M42 mount (made from 1958-1992). Renowned for its interesting swirly bokeh, rugged construction and affordability, it’s a copy of the Zeiss Biotar 58mm f/2 lens. Many users praise the lens for it’s buttery bokeh on closeups, and for portraiture. At 58mm, it’s certainly less wide than a 40mm. The close-focus of the lens is 18”, and it’s a real pleasure to use. This lens is multicoated (MC), but early versions of the lens may be uncoated or single-coated.

My take on the Zenit 12XP is that it’s a no-frills camera with a great lens that will allow you to concentrate on your subject. The basic controls are very basic, and with the limited shutter speed selection, it may seem a bit antiquated. Everything is fully manual, and it also makes it a great camera to learn photography with. Given the price of Pentax K1000s, a Zenit 12XP ought to be a bargain of you are looking for a basic SLR. The M42 screw mount has a huge number of lenses available for it, and they usually go for far less than other mounts.

Today, the prices on eBay are all over the place. A 12XP with the Helios 44M lens in very good condition will range from $20 - $90. The body only for a Zenit TTL - 12 series runs from $15-$40. All excluding shipping, of course. I figure that I did well for what I paid! Since it was made in Russia, it's going to be a more common camera in Europe than the USA. Some Zenit Es were re-badged under the Kalimar label as the Kalimar SR200.

ZENIT Resources:

Images! I really do like the results from this camera and lens combination.