Vintage Kopil CdS TTL Lens-Lite Exposure Meter Japan CS Screw Mount + Cap

Up for sale is a beautifully preserved, vintage Kopil CdS TTL Meter (also known as the Lens-Lite Meter). Manufactured in Japan during the 1960s by Kobayashi Seiki Seisakusho, this unique analog tool was designed for direct, through-the-lens ambient light measurement. It serves as an excellent collector's piece or a functional accessory for analog photographers seeking period-accurate, high-quality gear.

Specifications

FeatureDetail
BrandKopil (Kobayashi Seiki Seisakusho)
TypeCdS TTL Exposure Meter
MountThreaded screw mount (Engraved "CS")
ASA/ISO Range6 to 1600
Shutter Speeds60 seconds to 1/1000th of a second
Aperture Rangef/1 to f/22
OriginMade in Japan

Key Features & Visual Condition

  • Calculator Dial: Features a clean, highly visible striped calculator dial with a zero-calibration screw (0) for precise needle alignment.

  • Cosmetic Condition: The meter is in exceptional vintage condition. The glossy black cylindrical body shows minimal surface wear, and the silver-toned rims remain bright.

  • Controls: The dedicated red sliding OFF / ON switch is fully intact, brightly colored, and moves cleanly.

  • Authentication: Retains the original gold "JCII PASSED" inspection sticker, ensuring vintage Japanese manufacturing quality.

  • Accessories: Includes the original olive-green protective screw-on cover.

Operating Notes for Modern Use

  • Power Source: This device originally relied on a 1.35V mercury battery (such as a PX625 or PX635), which is no longer in production.

  • Modern Adaptation: To operate this meter accurately today, you will need a zinc-air Wein cell or a standard 1.5V battery paired with a voltage-reducing adapter to prevent over-exposure readings from higher-voltage modern cells.