The Calypso was the first 35mm Underwater Film Camera that didn't require a bulky housing. It was originally conceived by the famous marine explorer Jacques Cousteau and designed by a Belgian engineer named Jean de Wouters. In 1961, the two released this elegant and groundbreaking camera, known simply as the Calypso. Before this, underwater photography always involved a bulky housing being built around existing cameras. Cousteau envisioned a simpler, smaller camera; one that could be carried on land and easily used underwater at a moment’s notice.
The system originally had three lenses available; two manufactured by SOM Berthiot (BEAR-THEEH-OH) - a 28 and a 35 - and a 45mm by Angenieux. This is the SOM Berthiot 35mm f3.5. The left knob is for focusing, and the right knob is for the aperture; the values are shown on the front of the lens. The shutter is unique, as it simultaneously winds the film when cocking or firing the shutter. When pressed in, the camera is always ready to fire, so there’s this shutter release lock at the top. Nikon took over production of the Calypso in 1962 and rebranded it as the Nikonos, reintroducing it to the world at the 8th Photokina trade show in March 1963. The rest is history.
We do recommend getting cameras like these serviced every year if you plan on actually going into the water. While the seals may look fine, the true test when the camera becomes under pressure.
This camera will be available on our website shortly.
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28 окт 2020
