Ricoh Singlex TLS 35mm Film SLR with 50mm f2 Rikenon Lens

The Ricoh Singlex TLS is a 35mm film SLR camera produced by Ricoh, a Japanese camera manufacturer, in the late 1960s to early 1970s. It was part of Ricoh's Singlex series of SLR cameras and was notable for its solid build quality and advanced features for its time. Here's an overview of the camera and its main specifications:

1. Lens Mount: The Ricoh Singlex TLS featured a universal M42 lens mount, also known as the Pentax screw mount. This allowed users to use a wide range of lenses from various manufacturers with the appropriate adapter.

2. Lens: The camera often came bundled with a 50mm f/2 Rikenon lens, which was manufactured by Ricoh. This lens offered a standard focal length and a relatively wide maximum aperture, suitable for various photography applications such as portraits, street photography, and everyday shooting.

3. Shutter: The Singlex TLS had a mechanically controlled cloth focal-plane shutter, offering shutter speeds ranging from 1 second to 1/1000th of a second, as well as a Bulb mode for long exposures. The shutter speed dial was located on the top plate of the camera, allowing for easy adjustment.

4. Metering: This camera featured a built-in through-the-lens (TTL) light metering system, which was considered advanced for its time. The light meter provided photographers with exposure information through a needle or LED display visible in the viewfinder, allowing for accurate exposure settings.

5. Viewfinder: The camera featured a bright and clear pentaprism viewfinder with a split-image focusing aid and microprism collar, making manual focusing easier and more accurate.

6. Film Advance and Rewind: Film advance was achieved through a traditional lever mechanism, located on the top right-hand side of the camera. Film rewinding was manual, with a rewind crank located on the left-hand side of the top plate.

7. Construction: The Ricoh Singlex TLS was constructed with a sturdy metal body, which contributed to its durability and reliability. It had a classic SLR design with ergonomic controls, making it comfortable to use for extended periods.

8. Accessories: Various accessories were available for the Singlex TLS, including interchangeable focusing screens, motor drives for film advance, and flash units compatible with the camera's hot shoe.