Fujica ST and M42 SLR Buying Guide

The Fujica ST range is one of the most interesting routes into classic 35mm SLR photography. Built by Fuji before the modern Fujifilm digital era, these cameras combine solid mechanical design, bright lenses, and the flexibility of the M42 screw mount system. If you are looking for a Fujica ST film camera, or you have come across the term Fujica M42 and want to understand what it means, this guide will help you choose the right body, lens and setup.

Fujica ST cameras are especially appealing because they sit in a useful middle ground. They are often less obvious than Pentax Spotmatics, yet many models are beautifully made and capable of excellent results. They also give you access to a huge world of M42 lenses, including Fuji’s own Fujinon glass and lenses from brands such as Pentax, Yashica, Mamiya, Chinon, Helios, Carl Zeiss Jena, Meyer-Optik, Praktica and many others.

This guide is designed to complement our Fujifilm film cameras collection by explaining how the Fujica ST series fits together, how M42 compatibility works, what to check before buying, and which models suit beginners best.

What is a Fujica ST camera?

Fujica ST cameras are 35mm single lens reflex cameras made by Fuji during the 1970s and early 1980s. The “ST” line is best known for using the M42 screw mount, a lens mount shared by many classic SLR systems. Rather than using a bayonet fitting, M42 lenses screw into the camera body with a 42mm threaded mount.

Most Fujica ST models are manual focus, manual exposure cameras, although some later and higher-end models added open-aperture metering or aperture-priority automation. They are traditional film SLRs: you view through the lens, focus manually, set your shutter speed and aperture, then take the photograph on 35mm film.

They are not point-and-shoot cameras, and they do not offer autofocus. That is part of their charm. A Fujica ST camera gives you a direct, hands-on shooting experience, making it an excellent choice for photographers who want to learn exposure properly or enjoy the slower, more deliberate process of film photography.

Why Fujica ST cameras are still worth buying

The Fujica ST range is sometimes overlooked, but that can be a benefit for buyers. While some famous M42 cameras have become more collectible, Fujica bodies can still offer excellent value when in good working condition.

• They use the widely supported M42 screw mount system.

• Many models are mechanically simple and reliable.

• Fuji’s Fujinon lenses have a strong reputation for sharpness and contrast.

• Several ST models have bright viewfinders and straightforward controls.

• They are suitable for both learning photography and everyday film use.

• They offer a different route into M42 photography beyond the usual Pentax Spotmatic choice.

If you are comparing different manual focus SLR systems, you may also find it useful to browse our wider SLR Cameras collection.

Understanding Fujica M42 compatibility

The phrase Fujica M42 refers to Fujica cameras and lenses that use the M42 screw mount. In simple terms, an M42 lens should physically screw onto an M42 camera body. However, there are a few important details to understand before assuming every combination will work in exactly the same way.

The basic M42 mount

M42 is a 42mm screw thread lens mount. It was used by many manufacturers and became one of the most common SLR lens mounts of the film era. A standard M42 lens can usually be fitted to a Fujica ST body, and you can focus it normally.

The main difference between lenses is how the camera handles aperture operation and metering. Some lenses meter wide open on certain bodies, while others require stopped-down metering. This is not a fault; it is simply how the system evolved.

Fujinon lenses and open-aperture metering

Fuji produced its own M42 lenses under names such as Fujinon and EBC Fujinon. EBC stands for Electron Beam Coating, Fuji’s highly regarded multi-coating technology. These lenses are often excellent performers, particularly the standard 50mm and 55mm lenses.

Some Fujica ST cameras and Fujinon lenses support open-aperture metering. This means the camera can meter while the lens remains at its widest aperture, keeping the viewfinder bright. When you take the picture, the lens stops down to the selected aperture automatically.

However, open-aperture metering usually requires a compatible Fujica body and a compatible Fujinon lens. If you attach a non-Fuji M42 lens, the camera may still work perfectly, but metering may need to be done stopped down.

Stopped-down metering

Stopped-down metering means the lens is physically closed to the aperture you have selected while the camera measures the light. For example, if you set the lens to f/8, the viewfinder becomes darker because the aperture blades have closed down. The meter then reads the actual light passing through the stopped-down lens.

This method is common on many older M42 cameras and is easy to learn. It is slightly slower than open-aperture metering, but it is accurate and works with a very wide range of lenses. If you want to experiment with third-party M42 lenses, stopped-down metering is an important part of the experience.

Lens clearance and aperture pins

Most M42 lenses fit Fujica ST bodies without issue, but as with any vintage system there can be exceptions. Some lenses have rear protrusions, unusual aperture mechanisms or modified mounts. Always check that the lens screws in smoothly, focuses to infinity, and that the aperture opens and closes correctly.

Never force an M42 lens onto a camera. If it does not screw in cleanly, stop and inspect the threads. Cross-threading can damage both the body and the lens.

Fujica ST model guide

The Fujica ST family includes several models, from simple mechanical bodies to more advanced cameras with LED metering or automatic exposure. Below is a practical overview of the key models you are most likely to encounter.

Fujica ST701

The Fujica ST701 is one of the classic models in the range and a very good starting point for many buyers. It is a traditional M42 manual focus SLR with a mechanical shutter and through-the-lens metering. It has a clean layout, sensible controls and a reassuringly solid feel.

The ST701 is often appreciated because it keeps things simple. You set the shutter speed, set the aperture, focus, check the meter, and shoot. It does not try to automate the process. For learning film photography, that simplicity is a strength.

Why consider it:

• Classic manual SLR handling.

• Good build quality without unnecessary complexity.

• Compatible with a wide range of M42 lenses.

• Suitable for beginners who want to learn exposure properly.

Things to check:

• Meter operation and battery compartment condition.

• Shutter speeds, especially the slower speeds.

• Film advance smoothness.

• Light seals around the back and mirror box.

Fujica ST801

The Fujica ST801 is one of the most desirable Fujica M42 bodies. It is more advanced than the ST701 and is known for its LED metering display, which was modern for its time. It also offers a high top shutter speed, often making it attractive to photographers who want more flexibility in bright conditions.

The ST801 is a particularly good match for Fujinon lenses that support open-aperture metering. With the right lens, it feels faster and more refined than a basic stopped-down M42 body. It remains fully manual in use, so you are still in control of aperture and shutter speed.

Why consider it:

• Advanced Fujica ST body with LED meter display.

• Excellent partner for Fujinon M42 lenses.

• High top shutter speed compared with many older M42 cameras.

• Appealing to enthusiasts who want a capable manual SLR.

Things to check:

• LED meter display brightness and response.

• Battery contacts, as corrosion can affect metering.

• Shutter accuracy at fast speeds.

• Whether the supplied lens supports the metering features you expect.

Fujica ST901

The Fujica ST901 is one of the more sophisticated cameras in the ST line. It introduced aperture-priority automatic exposure into the Fujica M42 system, making it more convenient than the fully manual models. You select the aperture, and the camera chooses the shutter speed automatically, provided the electronics and metering system are working correctly.

For users who enjoy manual focus lenses but want a slightly quicker shooting process, the ST901 is an appealing option. It is less common than some other ST models and can be a strong choice for collectors or experienced users who specifically want a more advanced Fujica body.

Why consider it:

• Aperture-priority exposure makes shooting faster.

• Interesting and collectable within the Fujica ST range.

• Works well as a more advanced M42 camera.

• Good for photographers who like manual focus but appreciate automation.

Things to check:

• Electronic shutter and automatic exposure function.

• Meter display and battery condition.

• Consistency of exposure in auto mode.

• Availability of a compatible lens for best operation.

Fujica ST605

The Fujica ST605 is a simpler, more affordable model and is often a sensible beginner choice. It does not have the same premium specification as the ST801, but that is not necessarily a disadvantage. Fewer features can mean less to worry about, particularly if you simply want a reliable camera for learning and shooting.

The ST605 gives you the essential SLR experience: manual focus, manual exposure, TTL metering and M42 lens compatibility. It is compact enough to carry regularly and usually pairs well with a standard 50mm or 55mm lens.

Why consider it:

• Good value compared with higher-spec ST models.

• Simple and approachable for new film photographers.

• Works with many M42 lenses.

• Ideal if you want a practical user camera rather than a collector piece.

Things to check:

• Meter accuracy.

• Condition of light seals.

• Whether the shutter speeds sound consistent.

• General wear, as many were used as everyday cameras.

Fujica ST705 and ST705W

The Fujica ST705 sits between the simpler ST models and the higher-end ST801. It offers a more refined specification than the entry-level bodies while still keeping the familiar manual SLR layout. Depending on the exact version and lens used, it may provide more convenient metering than the basic stopped-down bodies.

The ST705W is a related variant and is less commonly seen than the standard ST705. These models are worth considering if you want something a little more capable than an ST605 but do not necessarily need the full specification or collectability of the ST801.

Why consider them:

• Good balance of features and usability.

• Often more affordable than the most sought-after ST bodies.

• Practical for regular shooting.

• Nice match for Fujinon lenses.

Things to check:

• Meter function with both Fujinon and non-Fuji M42 lenses.

• Battery compartment cleanliness.

• Shutter operation across the full speed range.

• Lens aperture coupling, if using open-aperture metering features.

Which Fujica ST camera is best for beginners?

For most beginners, the best Fujica ST camera is one that is fully working, comes with a clean standard lens, and has a meter that responds correctly. Condition matters more than chasing the rarest model.

If you want the simplest learning experience, the Fujica ST701 or ST605 are excellent choices. They encourage you to understand shutter speed, aperture and focus without overwhelming you. If you are already comfortable with manual cameras and want a more advanced body, the ST801 is one of the most rewarding options. If you like the idea of automatic exposure, the ST901 is worth considering, but only if the electronics are confirmed to be working properly.

A practical beginner setup would be:

• A Fujica ST701, ST605 or ST801 body.

• A Fujinon 50mm or 55mm standard lens.

• A fresh compatible battery for the meter.

• A roll of ISO 200 or ISO 400 colour negative film.

• A handheld light meter app as a backup while learning.

Best lenses for Fujica M42 cameras

One of the main reasons to buy a Fujica M42 camera is the lens choice. M42 gives you access to a huge selection of vintage lenses, from affordable everyday optics to collectable classics. You can browse compatible options in our M42 Lenses collection.

Standard lenses

A standard lens is the best place to start. Fuji made several excellent Fujinon standard lenses, commonly around 50mm or 55mm. These lenses are compact, sharp and bright enough for everyday photography. They are ideal for portraits, street photography, family photographs, travel and general use.

Look for lenses such as:

• Fujinon 55mm f/1.8

• Fujinon 50mm f/1.8

• Fujinon 55mm f/2.2

• EBC Fujinon standard lenses, where available

An f/1.8 or f/2 standard lens is usually the most practical choice. It gives you a bright viewfinder, useful low-light ability and attractive background blur without making the camera heavy.

Wide-angle lenses

A 28mm or 35mm M42 lens is a useful second lens for a Fujica ST camera. A 35mm lens gives a natural documentary feel and is excellent for street photography, travel and environmental portraits. A 28mm lens is wider and better suited to landscapes, architecture and interiors.

When buying wide-angle M42 lenses, check carefully for haze, fungus and stiff focusing. Some older wide-angle lenses have more complex optical designs and can suffer from internal issues if stored poorly.

Telephoto lenses

A 135mm M42 lens is one of the best-value telephoto options for Fujica ST users. Many manufacturers made 135mm lenses, and good copies can be sharp, compact and inexpensive. They are useful for portraits, compressed landscapes, details and occasional sports or wildlife work.

For most users, a 135mm lens is more practical than a larger 200mm lens. It balances better on Fujica ST bodies and is easier to focus accurately.

Macro and close-focus lenses

M42 is also a good system for close-up photography. True macro lenses can be more expensive, but extension tubes are widely available and work well with manual lenses. Because Fujica ST cameras are fully manual focus, they suit slow and deliberate close-up work nicely.

If you are interested in flowers, product details, textures or small objects, a standard lens with M42 extension tubes can be a low-cost way to experiment.

Metering and batteries

Metering is one of the most important things to understand when buying any vintage SLR. Fujica ST cameras use through-the-lens meters, but the exact display and battery requirements vary by model.

Some older models were originally designed around mercury batteries, which are no longer sold in the UK for normal consumer use. Many cameras can be used with modern alternatives, adapters or adjusted expectations, but it is important to check the specific model. Later Fujica ST bodies often use more readily available silver oxide or alkaline cells, though silver oxide batteries are usually preferred for more stable voltage.

Before relying on the built-in meter, compare it with a known accurate meter or a trusted light meter app. A meter that is slightly off can often still be used once you understand its behaviour, but a dead or erratic meter may make the camera less convenient for beginners.

The good news is that many Fujica ST models have mechanical shutters, so the camera may still fire without a battery. In that case, the battery powers the meter rather than the basic shutter operation. More electronic models, such as those with automatic exposure, are more dependent on working electronics.

What to check before buying a Fujica ST film camera

Condition is everything with vintage cameras. A well-kept ST605 can be a better purchase than a neglected ST801. When buying a Fujica ST film camera, pay close attention to the following points.

Shutter operation

Test all shutter speeds if possible. The faster speeds should sound crisp and consistent. The slower speeds should not hang, drag or pause for too long. A slight difference in sound between speeds is normal; obvious sticking is not.

Light seals

Old foam light seals often degrade into a sticky residue. This can cause light leaks on film. Replacing light seals is a common service job and not usually a reason to reject a camera, but it should be factored into the price and preparation before shooting an important roll.

Mirror bumper foam

The foam that cushions the mirror can also deteriorate. If it turns sticky, it can mark the mirror or affect viewing. Check around the mirror box carefully and avoid touching the focusing screen.

Viewfinder condition

A little dust in the viewfinder is normal and usually does not affect photographs. However, heavy fungus, prism desilvering or a very dirty focusing screen can make the camera less pleasant to use.

Meter response

Insert the correct battery and check whether the meter responds to light changes. Point the camera towards a bright area and then a darker area. The meter should move or change display accordingly. Erratic behaviour may indicate dirty contacts, battery issues or electronic faults.

Lens condition

Inspect the lens with a light. Look for fungus, haze, scratches and separation. Check that the focus ring turns smoothly and that the aperture blades move quickly without oil. On an M42 lens, also check that the aperture pin or manual/auto switch behaves correctly.

Film transport

Open the back and check the film advance, rewind mechanism and take-up spool. The advance lever should feel smooth and positive. The frame counter should reset when the back is opened on most models.

Fujica ST versus other M42 cameras

The most famous M42 SLRs are often Pentax Spotmatic models, but Fujica ST cameras deserve serious consideration. Compared with a Spotmatic, a Fujica may offer a different metering display, a different feel in the hand, and in some models, more advanced features such as LED metering or aperture-priority automation.

The main advantage of Pentax is name recognition and a very established user base. The advantage of Fujica is that you may find excellent bodies and lenses for less money, especially if you are open to models outside the most collectable options. Fujinon lenses are also a major reason to consider the system, particularly the EBC-coated examples.

If you already own M42 lenses, a Fujica ST body can be a very enjoyable way to use them. If you are starting from scratch, a Fujica body with a matching Fujinon standard lens is an excellent foundation.

Who should buy a Fujica ST camera?

A Fujica ST camera is a good choice if you want a classic film SLR with manual controls, strong lens compatibility and a slightly different character from the more obvious brands. It is particularly well suited to photographers who enjoy the process of shooting, rather than those who want maximum automation.

You should consider one if:

• You want to learn film photography on a proper manual SLR.

• You like the idea of using M42 screw mount lenses.

• You want a camera that feels mechanical and direct.

• You appreciate Fuji’s film-era design and Fujinon lenses.

• You want a practical vintage camera rather than a modern-feeling compact.

You may prefer a different camera if you want autofocus, built-in flash, programme auto exposure or very fast point-and-shoot operation. Fujica ST cameras reward a slower approach.

Final thoughts

The Fujica ST series is one of the most rewarding corners of the M42 SLR world. These cameras are capable, well designed and enjoyable to use, with enough variety in the range to suit both beginners and experienced film photographers. The ST701 and ST605 are excellent simple choices, the ST801 is a standout enthusiast model, and the ST901 offers a more advanced automatic exposure experience for those who want it.

The key is to buy on condition, understand the metering system, and choose lenses that suit the way you want to shoot. A clean Fujica ST body with a good Fujinon standard lens can be a superb everyday film camera, and the wider M42 system gives you plenty of room to explore.

To continue comparing options, visit our Fujifilm film cameras, browse classic SLR Cameras, or explore compatible M42 Lenses.