Vintage Etalon Automat-A Light Exposure Meter Copal Co. Ltd. Japan with Leather Case
Condition:
Light meter in good condition, having been well protected in its case. The pointer moves when exposed to different light levels, though it has not been tested for accuracy. The leather case is in good condition, showing light wear consistent with age.
Description:
This is a vintage Etalon Automat-A light exposure meter, manufactured by Copal Co., Ltd., Japan. It is a selenium-cell light meter designed for measuring ambient light levels to assist photographers in setting the correct exposure. The meter is housed in a compact, rectangular metal body with a silver-toned front face and a black plastic back panel.
The front of the meter features a large circular dial with various engraved numerical scales, allowing users to determine ASA (American Standards Association) and DIN (Deutsches Institut für Normung) sensitivity settings, as well as exposure times and light values. The dial has a combination of black, red, and blue markings, with each colour distinguishing a different measurement parameter. A small central sensor is located at the centre of the dial, characteristic of selenium-based light meters.
The top section of the meter includes a metal hinge and a protruding lever, which appears to be part of the operational mechanism. The back panel features a black label with white lettering, displaying the brand name "Etalon Automat-A", the manufacturer "Copal Co., Ltd.", and the phrase "Made in Japan". Below this label, there is a small adjustment screw marked "ZERO", which is likely used for calibration.
The meter comes with its original brown leather case, embossed with the "Etalon" name on the front flap. The case is designed with a rounded, pouch-like form, featuring reinforced stitching along the edges for durability. It has a button closure with a red plastic or bakelite fastener, keeping the meter securely stored. A black fabric strap is attached to the meter, which could be used for carrying or securing it when in use.
Manufactured in Japan by Copal Co., Ltd., this light meter likely dates from the 1950s or 1960s. Copal was a well-regarded Japanese manufacturer of photographic components, including shutters and exposure meters, which were widely used in both professional and amateur photography. The Etalon Automat-A would have been an essential tool for photographers in an era before built-in camera light metering became commonplace.
While primarily intended as a functional light meter, this piece may also appeal to collectors of vintage photographic equipment, film photography enthusiasts, or those with an interest in mid-century precision instruments. It could also serve as a decorative display item or a conversation piece for vintage photography collectors.
Item Specifics:
Etalon Automat-A Light Meter Copal Japan with Leather Case Photographic Exposure