Nikon FM and Olympus OM1 - Which is Best?

A comparison of two beautiful manual film SLRs.
You can support this channel at / zenography

[@markm4263]

Came for camera info, got a good night's sleep as well.

[@zenography7923]

:)

[@anaheimelectronics9347]

His voice is goooood

[@geraldward9765]

feels like an ARS video.

[@bradnelson2637]

Yes..very soothing voice…I got an OM-1 and OM-2…looking to getting a Nikon FE-2 soon

[@davidgifford8112]

The OM1 was my dream date. So pretty. However the FM was the one to marry. We’ve been together now for 30-years, so far.

[@zenography7923]

Do you still see the OM on the quiet?

[@chronicfish]

@@zenography7923 haha

[@geraldward9765]

funny but I went the other way. Everyone dated the Nikon so I married the OM-1.

[@blackwingvalleylover]

@@geraldward9765 I too have married the OM1- 32 years now 😂

[@anthonydavis4829]

@@blackwingvalleylover Congratulations The Shadow. Been with my OM2N for 35 years. Too bad Olympus doesn't make women.

[@toho45]

Cameras that made from 1978 to 1982 are from heaven. Made in Japan, amazing!!

[@zenography7923]

Agreed, the golden age for film SLRs!

[@Arcturian1111]

Guitars too.

[@srfurley]

@@zenography7923 And a really bad time for lots of other things, architecture, cars, buses etc. Interesting why it should have been different for cameras.

[@geraldward9765]

I had to choose between these two cameras back in the day. I chose the Olympus OM-1 and I never looked back. Both are great cameras but the Olymus is something special and a real beauty.

[@yukonchris]

I purchased a Nikon FM new in the 1970's. It was my first "professional" camera. I still have two bodies in my stable. It was a very nice all-manual 35mm film camera. That said, the multi-exposure button isn't just pushed. You need to slide it to the left, and hold it there while you operate the advance lever. Film rewind can only be accomplished after you depress the rewind button on the bottom of the camera which disengages the take-up gear from "holding" the film in place. I also own a number of Olympus bodies, including a couple copies of the original OM-1. They were veritable works of art. In many ways, I prefer the Olympus; however, for those wishing to use this camera today, it needs to be mentioned that their built in meter was powered by a 1.35v mercury battery, which provided very predictable and consistent current. These are no longer available, and the camera's circuitry does not regulate battery voltage. This means that improvising with a modern 1.5v battery will result in metering errors, which will also vary over time as the battery's power diminishes. There are workarounds but none is ideal in my view. The Nikon FM doesn't have this issue, and its meter will still work accurately with the usual two 1.5v silver-oxide, or alkaline batteries installed. So, if you opt to shoot with an OM-1, you would be advised to take along a hand held light meter as well. Another issue, I've noticed with the Olympus bodies is the tendency for the foam rubber seals and cushioning within the body to degrade over time. This is especially problematic with the film back seal, and with the cushion between the pentaprism and the top cover. Thus, while some might argue that the Olympus camera was superior in some key areas, notably design, when relatively new, the Nikon generally ages a little better. Well, that's what I've noticed anyway. Cheers.

[@spiritwalker6153]

I've owned my OM-1 since 1985. I have really enjoyed having it and I am currently thinking about getting back into analog photography.

[@peterturnham5134]

I started photography in the 70s with a cheap Practica, borrowed from my girlfriend . One of my friends at university became a professional photo journalist. He was using an Olympus OM-1. He covered a peace march from Newcastle to London which took more than a week long. It Rained and it rained. Lots of photography. At the end of the week his Olympus was flooded, error-ed and knackered. As a professional it was unacceptable. He bought a Nikon FM. Simple, precise, bulletproof. When I bought myself a camera I listened to him, Nikon FM. I used FMs for more than 30 years, absolutely brilliant and reliable. I have written this before but it's true, I would do this for a bet. Pour a pint of beer over my FM wipe the lens with a dirty handkerchief, stand up and take the shot. I got it every time. Since Digital I have gone Olympus OM E-5. and TG6. The OM-E5 weatherproofing is as goof as the FM. TG6 is just AMAZING. ZUIKO glass is brilliant, can you really tell the difference with Nikkor at the same price point?

[@marktimmins48]

Congratulations, you now have 1000 subscribers, you deserve more as your videos are excellent. Well done 👍

[@kafkaian]

Agree

[@zenography7923]

Thanks!

[@davebellamy4867]

I found the FM seemed a little more modern than the OM1 but both so simple. OM2 shutter is very quiet and there is the mirror lock up lever too. A schoolmate of mine had a Pentax MX, another lovely and small manual SLR.

[@davebellamy4867]

5:00 I love it that the ON/OFF switch on the OMD EM10 Mark ii is exactly the same as on the OM-1 designed about 43 years previously.

[@pedromeza2398]

I have two Nikons and one OM-1, and yes all are still working fine, I am a strictly manual camera photographer.

[@Caracalaba]

Which one has better lenses?

[@cdl0]

In summary, this video is a silky-smooth, beautifully engineered, all-manual masterpiece, containing no plastic or automation whatsoever.

[@zenography7923]

:) Many thanks, glad you enjoyed it!

[@huwmeredith7896]

I had a black FM for my 18th birthday and I'm still using it, btw I'm now 58!.

[@zenography7923]

I know what you mean, I've a feeling my FM may well outlast me!

[@tonyjedioftheforest1364]

Had/have both. Olympus OM1 all day, every day and twice on a Sunday. Lenses are fantastic also.

[@zenography7923]

That zuiko glass is hard to beat, for sure!

[@WesB1972]

Bought my first OM-1 in 1976 , still have it and several more bodies of different models plus a tub full of Zuiko lens and other accessories. I still use them, and i despise digital photography with there myriad of buttons and endless menus to scroll thru . Old school all the way.

[@heartoflions7138]

Great video of two legendary cameras. Well done...

[@zenography7923]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed it!

[@matteovrizzi]

apples vs. oranges. I have both & enjoy both. Here are a few additional details OM-1 can wind with a few short strokes (such as with a Leica M) FM must wind with one stroke FM has a more advanced light meter and uses easy to find batteries OM-1 has a (arguably) better, bigger viewfinder, for easier focusing. Additionally with 50mm lens you can keep both eyes open with the OM-1 (such as with a Leica M3). FM can use Non AI lenses, AI, AIS, AF, AFD and AFS. Anything with an aperture ring. OM-1 can use OM lenses but not Olympus digital or M4/3 lenses FM 1/125 flash sync, OM-1 1/60 flash sync, although I don't think anyone cares about flash or uses it OM-1 has a detachable flash shoe and they often crack or break OM-1 shutter sounds better, no argument OM-1 suffers from foam degradation that can lead to prism corrosion. Requires replacement of prism. FM units are usually in good condition even now, OM-1 is hit and miss OM-1 MD and OM-1n can use a winder, OM-1 cannot. all FM units can use a winder. OM-1 probably looks better (subjective) conclusion? Both are great, very different, prices (2019) more or less the same ~$150 for a good working camera, take your pick and enjoy.

[@videotosse]

Good points. The point; "OM-1 shutter sounds better, no argument" is actually an argument. I use both cameras and the OM's cloth shutter seems to be less intrusive when working in quiet places. Both very pleasing to work with.

[@Caracalaba]

Very nice comparison. I'm looking for one of these and I'll use mainly a 35mm 2.8. The olympus version looks very tiny, as well as other om lenses, that would be the main point in case I decide to go for the om1. What are your thoughts on both lens systems? is there a noticeable difference in terms of build, image quality and size of the lenses?

[@urwholefamilydied]

more advanced light meter from the FM?? I always heard that the OM had the most advanced light meter well into the 80's. Invented the meter reading off the actual film. Why it was so good for astrophotography. The aperture priority would literally go on for 10 minutes or more.

[@matteovrizzi]

@@urwholefamilydied That is OM-2 which can meter OTF. In my comment, I compare OM-1 with FM. OM-2 maybe better compares with FE.

[@urwholefamilydied]

@@matteovrizzi ahhhh, didn't know they had different metering systems. Just knew OM1 was fully manual and OM2 aperture priority. Good to know. Ya, I have the OM2n and never bother to even shoot in full manual, unless for whatever reason I'm set on shooting a particular shutter speed, which I normally am not. The meter is so good.

[@kafkaian]

Lovely summary. I had the Nikon FM2, saved up for it with the money I made from a Saturday job at a Birmingham department store in the early 80s...then it was stolen. I'm still miffed today. I have the OM-2 currently. So whilst I had neither camera you discuss, I can entirely relate to the content. Beautiful cameras. Regards, Ian, Birmingham

[@zenography7923]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed it. I do find the shutter speed control a bit awkward to use on the OM1, on the FM, for me, it's much more intuitively placed. The OM2 is a different matter - aperture priority makes it much easier, for me at least. Thanks for watching.

[@andrewtongue7084]

I own both of these wonderful cameras; your advocacy for each is not misplaced. Anyone starting out (& wishing to know the fundamentals) are best disposed to begin here. Back in the day, I began with the Olympus - I couldn't afford the Nikon, but as time went on, I managed to pick up the FM & a 50mm F1.8 standard. Of course, film processing was considerably cheaper then, & my proclivity was for B & W imagery ( I should have bought shares in Ilford) - colour was all very dynamic, but it was the world of monochrome that drew me down the rabbit hole; even now, with DSLR's in my camera bag, there's always room for an analogue body - a day's shooting wouldn't be complete without a couple of rolls of film....all part of the magic. that strangely, digital will never encompass....

[@alanread6596]

The om1 is an exellent camera i love it

[@vinny3908]

I use a double throw on the om1 when advancing the film, works perfect even with the camera hold up to your face. Makes it much faster and shorter. Loved the video, beautiful cameras and totally agree that analog is the way to learn. Greetings.

[@zenography7923]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed the video. The analogue, all manual process is the real thing, slower than a modern digital but far more rewarding. Enjoy the OM!

[@antoninowoodystella4607]

as always a pleasure to see

[@zenography7923]

Thank you!

[@anthonydavis4829]

Great compareson. In 80's worked in pro camera store. Had access to top brands. Olympus om2n won me over with it's OTF metering. Also had om1n as my backup. Olympus made a great camera. Nikon is also great. Pick one and shoot. Your brain is boss not the camera.

[@HansBaier]

If you ever disassembled those.... OM1!!!! Putting the Nikon FM2 back together was hell, the OM1 was almost as easy as taking it apart.!

[@zenography7923]

I'll leave that Nikon to the experts then!

[@emgee44]

I used it have the OM2SP, given the choice I’d buy an OM2n, the Olympus was lighter and smaller and I liked where the shutter speed control was positioned. It meant you could control, shutter speed, aperture and focus with one hand without having to taking your eye off the subject. An innovative design for the time

[@PanAmStyle]

Exactly! The one hand control of exposure is brilliant. Maitani was a very special designer and engineer.

[@mathewrupp8568]

I ended up getting both, I use the OM-1 when I want the lightest and most compact camera. The FM and it's heavier lenses are used when I'm shooting hand held slow shutter speeds. The Nikon is easier to hold steady with the larger heavier lenses. The Nikon body does feel a little heavier and more sturdy then the Olympus. I wish I could pick-up Nikon lens for the same price as Olympus lenses. I do have a couple of Tamron Adaptall lenses that can be used on both cameras, they are on the heavy side but are decent glass.

[@miguelbazaaranaantunez4608]

Cámaras increíbles! Trabaje muchos años con la Nikon fm2, me gusta más que la F3Hp.. Conozco prácticamente toda la óptica Nikon. Sin embargo hace más de 10 años que conocí la Olimpus om2 y cambie todas mis cámaras por esta fabulosa marca, y los lentes Zuiko no los cambio por nada . Inclusive me gusta más fotogtafiar con las Olimpus , que con mis grandiosas Barnaks y mi increíble Leica M3.. Graciass gran video Saludos desde México....."""

[@plasmadlite8661]

What a lovely surprise :) in depth and insightful review, with added ASMR bonus 🙂

[@zenography7923]

Many thanks, glad you enjoyed it!

[@marktimmins48]

Fab video as usual. I have both cameras but I just couldn’t choose between them as they are both wonderful .it’s almost like having to choose your favourite child, it just can not be done.

[@zenography7923]

Thanks Bunty's Dad, glad you enjoyed it. Very difficult to choose a favourite; I like the Olympus for its small size and general loveliness, and the Nikon for its obvious engineering quality and attention to detail. I'm new to Nikon SLRs, but first impressions are very favourable. As always, thanks for watching.

[@DaveInBridport]

I used to have a Canon F1n (the later model). That was a beautifully made camera.

[@robertschellhammer3565]

The OM-1 has .92x viewfinder magnification @97% coverage. The FM has .86x @93% (both w. 50mm lens). Like the Leica M3 you can view with both eyes open on the OM.

[@zenography7923]

One of the best finders in the business, no doubt about it!

[@mathewrupp8568]

I'm a old Nikon guy from the 70's, when I got back into film I picked up a OM-1 and Om-2. I later picked up a FM and a FE and have been using them this past year. However, both my FM and FE developed issues mainly the film advance. On the other hand my Olympus cameras just keep going even though they don't feel as solidly built as the Nikons. I'm getting rid of the baby Nikons and have purchased a F3. I looked at the F2AS however it cost more and people report the meters are going bad.

[@zenography7923]

That's interesting! I'd assumed the OM cameras were the slightly more delicate of the two - but apparently not!

[@mathewrupp8568]

@@zenography7923 I was surprised also I didn't abuse the cameras. I also just picked up another OM-1 off of Craig's List, retired guy like me didn't have a batter to check it, however I was interested in the 50mm 1.4 lens. I met the guy the lens was good, used a battery I had and the meter worked fine and the body is in nicer shape then my other OM-1, not bad for $60 US.It also came with a full case, I often find it cheaper to buy a camera with a lens then a lens by it's self. I also fine that Nikon lens and cameras have gone up much higher in price in the last couple of years while the Olympus have stayed lower priced.

[@coloradofotomatt]

Look for an FM2n...a big upgrade on shutter...and who needs a meter! ;~) I actually found that my FM2n had a brighter viewfinder than my F3HP and frankly HATED the F3's dinky, little LCD display.

[@JonnyEnglish-gu1cs]

Had both of them over time I liked my OM 1n then moved over to Nikon when I was in the army as in the 80 s FM was our issued camera still using Nikon’s today still like to shoot film now and again

[@shelliecarlson7015]

I found my OM-1 at a local thrift store a couple of weekends ago with the 50mm Zuiki lens plus a Vivitar lens for 10 dollars american. Have yet to run film through it, but very soon! Would love the find a Nikon of the same vintage. I do know, I love the OM-1. Probably love the Nikon as well. Great video, thanks.

[@zenography7923]

Wow, that was quite a find, well done, shoot some film and enjoy! Glad you enjoyed the video, let me know how you get on with the Olympus.

[@mrstandfast2212]

A word of caution, check the light seals on any of the cameras from this era, as it can be a frustrating and annoying outcome when light leaks spoil your enjoyment of otherwise wonderful machines.

[@thomasmoje5926]

Both exquisite cameras and excellent examples of the peak of film 35mm SLR camera engineering 'back in the day'. When I was trying to decide on my first 35 mm film SLR back in late 1970's: looked at Olympus OM1, Pentax MX, Canon FTb, Minolta, Nikon Nikkormat FT3, etc. basically the primary manual exposure setting models from each major manufacturer back then. I gravitated to Nikon because my brother-in-law had a Nikomat (gray market import versions had the name spelled that way) FT2 and he extolled the virtues of that camera. That and the Nikon reputation swayed me to Nikon and then when the FM came out: that was it: the perfect camera for me at the time. However if I were to build a collection of classic manual exposure film SLR's: surely would include the Olympus OM1, Pentax MX, Canon FTb, etc all jewels of cameras.

[@zenography7923]

That would be a very cool collection!

[@gustavorivera27]

Great to see them togheter! Grettings

[@zenography7923]

Hi Gustavo, glad you enjoyed this one!

[@stefanb.6020]

You did not mention the problem with the battery on the OM-1. Suitable batteries cannot be found easily nowadays. Using the only alternative battery available results in wrong light metering. I have to adjust ISO settings in order to expose correctly. This fact makes my OM-1 (black) rather difficult to use. What is your experience on this issue?

[@Bettys_Eldest]

Bought my OM-1n back in 1981, a few of my friends had Nikons, with a couple of Spotmatics around. So glad I got the OM-1, still gets a little use, though most of my shots are now taken digitally with the even smaller Pentax Q.

[@tobysummers471]

Thank you for the great videos Nigel ! Watched this as well as your buyers guide video too. Always wanted an OM-1 and now I do for the small sum of £35 off eBay ! Needed to replace my Canon AE-1 of which sadly the electronics have died.

[@peaspeas7202]

И как вам OM-1 в сравнении с АЕ-1? Спасибо большое!

[@Seele2015au]

FE/FE2 user here. If I were to get a FM, I'd be sure to get the later version without the knurled selector around the shutter release; it makes using motor drive (get the MD-12 instead of the MD-11) much easier. Of course there's the FM2, but that's another story.

[@michaelwhiles5282]

Loved and used both. You should include the lovely Pentax MX In your next comparison. For me its got to be the FM - better build, better metering, its only failings are that the OM was more of a system camera (in the truest sense) as it has a full motor drive (5 FPS) , bulk back and interchangeable screens etc whereas the FM drive was more of an 'entry level' as the F2 and then F3 were the flagships. Look after either and they'll see you out and keep going far after the current mirrorless have hit the bin. Long live film !

[@zenography7923]

I'll look out for a good MX!

[@andrewcomerford9411]

I faced this dilemma when I replaced my Praktica (first SLR) - I chose the Pentax MX and never looked back.

[@srfurley]

Andrew Comerford I was about to suggest that the Pentax MX would have been a good addition to the review. I’ve never used one, or any other K mount Pentax, only the old screw mount SP-1000 and Spotmatic F. It’s slightly odd that the ‘70s, an era of rather poor quality in many things, produced some of the best cameras ever made.

[@psychmike1717]

I've owned both in the day. I preferred the usability of the OM-1 with the aperture, focus and shutter controls all within fingertip reach, but the Nikkor lenses I found slightly sharper to the Zuiko. Love them both.

[@dianeschuller]

nicely done though I have one question. On the OM-1 I don't see a line on the top of the camera for setting the asa. But it appears there is a black dot or line on the shutter ... is that what is used for lining up the asa?

[@zenography7923]

As I recall, there's a mark on the camera body by the asa control, at the bottom of the prism housing.

[@TheRip72]

There is a slot in the shutter release button housing. The ASA lines up with that. Around 5:10, it gets set to 200, then the shot cuts & it has changed to 125.

[@JamesE707]

Fine video.

[@darkangellew]

Haha I know this is an old video but I received my om1n today & couldn’t be happier!

[@ellyrion8173]

Hi Zen, After shooting my OM10 for a few months with zero issues it developed an issue mid-shoot yesterday that seems to be electronic in nature and therefore difficult and expensive to repair. It looks like it might have to be sold on for spares/repairs :( I'm thinking this is a good oppurtunity to grab something fully mechanical like an OM1n as I already own some Zuiko lenses and enjoy the system - I was just wondering what your experience with mechanical cameras was when it comes to durability and ease of repair? I'm thinking a mechanical camera would suit me (over something like an OM2n) as they seem to be pretty rugged (my camera lives in my bag) and can be repaired a little easier than cameras with electronics like my OM10. I'm hoping this purchase will provide me with something that really lasts me so I would love to hear your thoughts. Many thanks, Jos

[@zenography7923]

I think you're thinking along the right lines. As electronics age, it's likely they'll become more difficult to fix than purely mechanical systems, and may eventually become impossible to fix. Having said that, they seem to be long lasting - both my OM2 and Nikon FE are still going strong, and I'm not worried about them giving up just yet, but anything mechanical is likely to outlast them in the long term. So if you want an slr, you could do a lot worse than the OM1, and another that might be even longer lived is the Nikon FM - a very simple yet solid machine with everything you need and nothing you don't. Yet another strategy is to buy up a few good, working slr cameras now, whether electronic or manual, and while they're still relatively affordable - remember they're not making these any more and prices can only go up! Good luck!

[@Sergio-kg3sx]

Love and use both.

[@ghw7192]

I have both. Great cameras with fantastic lenses!

[@zenography7923]

Indeed they are - enjoy!

[@andreasrochow5170]

Thank you very much for the successful ode to vintage SLRs. Once again I discovered the striking similarities with the Praktica Made in Dresden/GDR. The Praktica FX II was my first camera. Today I long for the sharpness performance of its Carl Zeiss Tessar 50 mm f2.8 with jump aperture. The Pentaprism was available as an accessory. Whithout this accessory, one had a vertical view of a side-inverted viewfinder image (ground glass). A folding magnifying glass served as a focusing aid. Only 53 years ago! progress?

[@federicomuciaccia9191]

can you tell me which lens you have used to film this video? it has a beautiful bokeh!

[@zenography7923]

Most of the videos on this channel, including this one, were shot with a Carl Zeiss Jena Flektogon 35mm f2.4 - I'm glad you like it, it's a lovely lens, one of my favourites!

[@maangamandai]

On the OM cameras the ASA/ISO is on the top of the camera next to the winder, and the shutter speed control is placed where the lenses are mount. So you dont have to fiddle with both hands to set the shutter and aperture. Brilliant design.

[@zenography7923]

Took me a little while to get used to, but I'm fine with it now!

[@WRCzATL]

I had to make a similar choice recently... but given all the K-mount lenses I have, I got the Pentax MX, a worthy option to either.

[@PanAmStyle]

I “grew up” with the OM-1 and it will always be my favourite SLR. I do have some OM-2s and an OM-4, but the OM-1 just feels the best. The sound of the cloth shutter is MUCH nicer than the Nikon, IMO - I can’t live with its sound.

[@pmdrifts393]

Is it possible to mount a flash on top of the Olympus OM1?

[@zenography7923]

It is, but the OM cameras have a detachable shoe, which this OM1 didn't come with!

[@alexblaze8878]

FM uses Gallium Photo Diodes as a light meter, the OM uses the older Cadmium Sulphide version. GPD light meters don’t suffer from exposure memory like the CdS meters do. Additionally, GPD meters respond faster and more accurate to a broader light spectrum and they have a huge temperature range of -40 C to +50 C they’re capable of operating in. For these reasons, I much prefer cameras with GPD (or Silicon) light meters. Not to mention the FM uses a metal focal plane shutter which seem to be more durable than cloth leaf shutters. That being said I’m making an exception and looking at buying a Zorki based on your reviews.

[@zenography7923]

That's interesting, thanks for the info! As regards durability of shutters, cloth does seem more vulnerable, but my rangefinders from the 1930s to the 1970s would, I think, beg to differ!

[@alexblaze8878]

@@zenography7923 yes I’m glad you brought that up. I’m looking at buying a zorki 4k but the aging cloth shutters makes me a bit nervous. Do you happen to know if they can be repaired/replaced?

[@DPImageCapturing]

I just purchased the FM (in all black) with a power winder. I also have the OM2n as well along with 5 other film cameras. Excellent video, CHEERS!

[@sclogse1]

With these two cameras, does it make a difference if you set the shutter speed before or after cranking the camera?

[@christoguichard4311]

The voice-over is hilarious! 😂 ...but also very comprehensive, it has to be said.

[@leolammas7940]

no mention of the mirror lock-up or the interchangeable screens. Is rhe filmspeed dial linked to the exposure meter? if not ,is it just a reminder of the film in the camera?

[@peterjohnson1739]

The FM self-timer raises the mirror when the shutter is depressed. This means the mirror is up for the entire duration of the timer. Effectively this is an automatic mirror lock up for exactly the time you need it for.

[@peterjohnson1739]

Screens in the FM are not interchangeable.

[@PTRK490]

I have the OM-1n and it’s a beast for a fully mechanical device🔥atleast in my opinion, other may differ of course. I don’t use the built-in light meter because it’s broken for some reason. Most of the time I can meter by eye and feel but ngl sometimes I use a light meter app on my phone especially in low light photography. I never tried the other one tho. I love the compact feel of the OM-1n and for a small camera it is pretty heavy haha. It’s well built. I love it.

[@larsbliss2728]

I went with the OM system and have 4 bodies 3 OM-1s and 1 OM-10. The only thing I would change would be to a vertical shutter with sync speed of 1/125. I despise the fact that you need to pull out the advance lever to turn on the meter on the Nikon. I have a Nikkormat ftn that has the same setup and it has the shutter speed dial in the same place as the OMs. I don't use the Nikkormat much but it is a nice camera and will stay in the collection when I finally get off my backside and start selling the 20 or so SLRs (including the OM-10 body) and the accompanying lenses I have from Minolta and Pentax. Going to keep my Pentax K and Spotmatic too, they are nice cameras as well.

[@zenography7923]

That sounds like a great collection...

[@coloradofotomatt]

I chose the OM-1n in my earliest days as a photojournalist. A beautiful, compact and simple camera...until I started using daily with a motor drive. It ripped the guts out of a camera never meant for a motor drive. My camera repair guy shoved an old beater F2 at me and said "I'm sick of fixing your cameras. Here." I never looked back. My FM2n was a tank alongside my F3HP and F4s!

[@zenography7923]

I've often wondered if the Nikon SLRs of the time were a little more hardy than the OM cameras - your story certainly confirms that!

[@coloradofotomatt]

@@zenography7923 Unfortunately yes. And I did LOVE my OM1n & 2n. Except for that ridiculous screw in hot shoe that was always more of an unscrew hot shoe. I finally epoxied them to the bodies!

[@photobobo]

So, how come the frame counter advanced when you held down the multiple exposure button?

[@zenography7923]

I hadn't noticed that - perhaps I didn't engage it properly?

[@peterjohnson1739]

As others have said you slide the button parallel to the back plate. Pushing on it, as you did in the video, has no effect.

[@jordanjoestar8839]

I have the Olympus OMG (lol right) and I couldn't be happier. Built like a tank and it has a very sophisticated internal Auto shutter speed option, that functions in a much more advanced way than its competitors.

[@zenography7923]

Lol indeed! I've heard it's a nice camera though...

[@RM-lg2cm]

So I have a Nikon ( FM 2) chrome body in Mint condition with a Nikon 50 mm f 1.2 lens plus a Vivitar Zoom lens 70-300 mm. Any leads on where I can sell please? And also have original case and Nikon shoulder strap

[@zenography7923]

Well, depending on where you are, there are lots of photographic dealers advertising in Amateur Photographer (UK), however you won't get full market value from them as they have to sell on. I've always found that things find their worth on ebay - and maybe a little bit more! Hope that helps...

[@RM-lg2cm]

@@zenography7923 Thanks. I am in India.. Goa to be precise. So will try eBay as per your suggestion.

[@BriansPhotoShow]

For my money, the FM has four advantages over the OM-1: (1) aperture and shutter speed visible in the viewfinder, (2) gallium as opposed to CdS photocell, (3) designed for 1.5-volt silver oxide batteries as opposed to 1.35-volt mercury cells, and (4) a stainless steel Copal Square shutter, perhaps the most reliable shutter ever made for a 35mm SLR. Having said that, I've never shot an OM-1 so perhaps the feel and handling would compensate for the FM's apparent technical advantages.

[@zenography7923]

I agree, these are all advantages, and the more I use the Nikon, the better I like it. Having said that, the OM1 is smaller and more jewel like; it feels great in the hand, and just somehow right. I think if you try one you'll be pleasantly surprised! Thanks for watching.

[@stephenestall9044]

The Olympus uses a rubberized cloth shutter similar to the shutter used by Leica for over half a century so it can't be too bad.

[@BriansPhotoShow]

@@stephenestall9044 Rubberized cloth shutters aren't bad at all, but I believe the Copal Square shutter is better. When was the last time you saw a pinhole light leak in a stainless steel shutter?

[@jeansienkin]

You can use a mr9 battery adapter to lower the voltage of the 1.5-volt batteries. It works very well.

[@oguevarra7878]

I agree also. It seems that the ones who compare the two cameras closely, 2 out of 3 end up getting the FM. I was one but I went over each one with fine tooth and comb. The FM was the winner. The OM-1 is a fine camera (I have used one extensively) but I find using it was more combersome than the FM. Having to take your eye away from the viewfinder to see the aperture and/or shutter speed slows one down. And having a 1/125 flash sync slays the OM-1 in flash photography. To me the, the little size difference between the 2 is insignificant. I've used a Nikon F5 so either the FM or the OM-1 is tiny compared to the F5.

[@EM-ve9bh]

Love both, eventually moved up to an FM3a and think it'll be the manual film SLR I take to my grave.

[@akshtsh]

I'm looking to buy a new SLR. Can you please suggest me that should i get a Nikon FM at around 68$ with a zoom lens or an Olympus OM 1 for 95$ with a 50mm prime. Please reply

[@zenography7923]

Well, a zoom lens is usually that bit more versatile, but many have quite small (f3.5 - f5.6) maximum apertures, so that limits the amount of blur you can make, if that's what you want to do. I've found short zooms (say 28 - 70mm) much more useful than long zooms (eg 70 - 200mm), so if you do go for the Nikon, make sure it's a short zoom. Personally I prefer the Olympus cameras for their small size - a factor that's important to me. Also, a 50mm prime will help you to learn photography thoroughly, if only because it's one less thing to think about. But of course, the final choice must be yours...

[@akshtsh]

Thank you so much for the answer.

[@johnrflinn]

Unlike the OM-2, the OM-1 has mirror lock-up which is great to reduce vibration when using a long telephoto lens on a tripod. If you use the timer on the Nikon FM, the mirror locks up within the first second of the 12 second delay of the shutter release. Double exposures are harder to do and less accurate on the OM-1. I especially like the fact that both of these cameras only use the battery for the light meter and all the shutter times can work without a battery. The Canon FT QL is also similar to these two cameras. The advantage of the metal shutter on the Nikon is that it lasts longer than a cloth shutter and doesn't develop pinholes. If you use mirror lockup on a camera with a cloth shutter never leave it on a tripod or table facing the sun or a hole can be burned in the shutter curtain.

[@ghw7192]

My OM1 has lived on a telescope for years.

[@Dahrenhorst]

I did choose the OM-1 because of its shutter settings at the lens mount. It's more logical to me and doesn't force you to take the camera from the eye if you want to change shutter speed. One of the very few SLRs which had this feature.

[@zenography7923]

Must admit, I found it a little difficult to get used to, it was fine with practice though.

[@oguevarra7878]

I chose the FM over the OM-1 for the following reasons: 1/125 flash sync (vs 1/60 on the OM-1) More conventional control setup Dedicated multi-exposure button Safety lock on back cover Aperture and Shutter in the viewfinder Prefer Nikkor lenses over Zuiko (almost a non issue) More durable metal shutter Newer metering cells (GPD vs CdS) ISO (3200 vs 1600) allowed for pushing film Back in the early 80's, I had a friend who had an OM-1 and we always had friendly arguments over which camera was better. Granted that both are capable of beautiful pictures so we usually ended our arguments in a draw. Flash forward to present day - My FM with the 50 1.4, still operates as smoothly and precisely as the day I bought it over 40 years ago. My friend with the OM-1 tells me that the DOF button on his 50 1.4 is sticking, the film advance does not snap back and is slow to return plus the rubber focusing ring on his 50 1.4 has fallen off. One more, - I can still use my Nikkor AI/AI-S lenses on my current Nikon DSLRs!

[@oguevarra7878]

@@hargelrinelmagante3312 Yes, I agree. But the FM is more responsive and faster to operate. To me that makes it more enjoyable to use and increases the pleasure of taking pictures/making images. Even my friend who was a diehard Olympus fanatic switched over to Nikon in the 90s. A bitter pill for him to swallow but does not regret it. Nikon FM over the Olympus OM-1 - Anytime, Anywhere!

[@oguevarra7878]

@@hargelrinelmagante3312 The things I envied from my friend's OM-1 over my FM was the manual mirror lockup and the interchangeable screens. The FM, however did have a work around the mirror lockup using the self timer. but it wasn't on demand like the OM-1. And I wanted a matte grid screen like he had installed in his OM-1 but my FM was fixed with the split-image prism. I heard that the FM could have the screen changed but only by the factory and I didn't want to have to deal with that. Anyway, once my friend and I put our differences aside, we had many photo field trips and enjoyed snapping pictures through all sorts of weather, sunsets and sunrises, night time, special effects with our cameras. And that was the best part of the FM vs OM-1 debate - enjoy what you have and don't overthink about it.

[@oguevarra7878]

@@hargelrinelmagante3312 The Pentax MX was a very nice camera. In fact, it was my second choice after the Nikon FM and before the Olympus OM-1. Of the three cameras, I felt that the FM handled the best had had the most precise feel. Other than that, I could have just flipped a coin, LOL!

[@thecaveofthedead]

I want this on spotify so I can listen to it to send me to sleep - I mean that in a positive way. The other camera that these two should be compared to is the Pentax MX. For a number of reasons, I think that the OM1 and the MX are more similar - and superior in some ways - to the FM. The FM2, with it's super fast shutter and high flash synch speed is another matter. And the FM3 is obviously an apotheosis. Not taking away from the FM, but I think that the OM1 and the MX are better for the given specs of this era of film SLR.

[@zenography7923]

I know what you mean about the FM, but that's one of the reasons I like it! It's simple, very solidly made and somehow just very likeable!

[@bedoinuk]

My vote goes to the Pentax MX as well. It has probably the largest viewfinder on a 35mm format SLR ever and Pentax lenses from that era are still fully usable on recent Pentax bodies not only due to their superior SMC coatings and perhaps wIth even "silkier" focusing than Nikon.

[@srfurley]

The original FM had an advantage over the FM2 in that it’s ai coupling tab could be folded back to enable unconverted old pre-ai lenses to be fitted. I have recently bought my first, and so far only, Digital SLR and one if my reasons for choosing the Nikon DF was that surprisingly it also has this feature.

[@lesberkley3821]

I note that the FM has a flash shoe, and the OM1 needs an accessory. I have had both of these cameras, and very slightly prefer the FM, but both are excellent+++ as the Japanese dealers say.

[@neilugaddan]

I have FM and MX. I love small SLRs.

[@georgek.8750]

i have the OM-1. my 2 gripes, no double exposure, and the film advance is rough. other than that, i love it.

[@zenography7923]

It's a great little camera, for sure!

[@MrGranovski]

The OM1 has a cloth shutter. The FM does not. I had both cameras. The FM is super solid but I preferred the OM1. A much better camera. I also had a FM2nT---wow! But I prefer my Konica Autoreflex T3 over it.

[@sequentialable12]

Please show us the focusing and metering

[@JamesE707]

I meant to add - the Nikon FM 'feels' mechanically more reliable internally. Would be interesting to know the stats on this? How many OMs fail vs Nikon FM/FE etc? (Edited)

[@zenography7923]

Not sure about that; I would think the Nikon may be more reliable over time but that's just a guess. Having said that, I've handled many OM1s and 2s and haven't encountered a mechanical failure yet. The proof of the pudding, as they say...

[@TillyOrifice]

Years ago I picked up a Nikon FM in a camera shop in Sydney that I will leave nameless, and operated the self-timer. It went glurk, and stopped. "You broke it", exclaimed the proprietor. I was disappointed as I had hoped to buy it. But they found another one behind the counter and idiotically I bought that. The shutter failed after about 6 months.

[@helgividar]

This video reminds me that I have a Minolta SRT 100x with a 45mm lens in my cupboard. It is very similar to the Nikon FM except it does not have a self timer. I bought it 1979 but I haven't taken pictures with it since 1999. I always took a good pictures with it though. Maybe it is time for it to come out of the closet and blink its eye to the world.

[@zenography7923]

Sounds to me like it's long overdue for an airing!

[@helgividar]

I took it out yesterday and shoot a couple of images with it. I always forgot to wind the film for the next image. At first I thought the shutter was jammed. I was very clumsy with it.

[@marike1100]

Wonderful cameras both even though I prefer the Nikon, the viewfinder on the OM is outstanding. Btw, I feel like mounting that 50mm f/1.8 E for “economy” lens on the glorious FM is a bit of an insult as it was released with the Nikon EM a budget model, and is not nearly as good as the Nikkor 50mm f/1.8 Longnose. ;). Even though I have an FE, I see one or both of these mechanical SLRs in my future. Thanks.

[@protestagain]

I'm thinking back to the mid seventies. I'd had a Praktica LTL3. A real sledgehammer. Got a part time job in the local newspaper as a photograph, when I was a student. Then I needed a better camera. What to choose. Nikon F, way too expensive, Nikon FE also expensive. Canon A1 fancy but, choosed OM-2. The best choice, with Zuiko 50/1.8 and Vivitar 28/2.8 and 70-150/3.8. Never regret my choice. OM-2 was a fantastic workhorse and the right camera for me. That's why I couldn't forget the OM-System, and why I bought the OM-3Ti and all the lenses. It's "my Leica M6"

[@jeanmulligan4168]

Have to push the rewind button as well om1 is light to carry with and can jam but fixable with a screwdriverFm with a motor drive for sports is great all you need

[@alvinjohnchandra2509]

OM 1 was a flagship model made for pro's but FM/FE was made for serious amateur photographer. You are supposed to compare it with Nikon F models maybe the F2.

[@pulktheband9106]

I still love my om1 😊

[@NpasRules]

How do you shoot double exposure on the OM1?

[@paulqueripel3493]

Press rewind button, hold the rewind crank in position to stop the film moving (you may have to tension it before pressing rewind button), wind on. Not an accurate method but it was the only way on most cameras without a double exposure setting in that era.

[@TheRip72]

@@paulqueripel3493 The rewind button is actually a small wheel on the front of the body near the shutter release. This needs rotating 90 degrees instead of rotating. This is another thing which Olympus decided to do differently.

[@paulqueripel3493]

@@TheRip72 i forgot that. All my Olympuses (olympi?) had a button (10,40,4).

[@TheXiphiasgladius]

As long as I can feed it 35mm film i'll shoot it :-)

[@ghw7192]

Agreed!

[@ivaa7777JAWA]

Nice

[@nidhishshivashankar4885]

This is soooo aesthetic

[@zenography7923]

Thanks Nidish, glad you appreciated it!

[@sorenmeyer7347]

Definitly Olympus OM, doesn't matter which one, if it's a single digit modell

[@zenography7923]

Agreed, single digit OMs are very nice indeed - although the OM10 is pretty nice too... Thanks for watching!

[@urwholefamilydied]

I haven't shot THIS Nikon, but I've shot my sister's F3 quite a bit... GORGEOUS camera. But if I had to just choose between hers and my Olympus... it would be tough. The F3 truly is a work of art. But man, I really love my Olympus. The lens selection is smaller for the OM, but they also don't really have any "ehhhh" lenses. It covers the range, includes specialty lenses, without any overlap or redundancy. So that's nice. Lens shopping for the Nikon sounds like a lot of research and reviews. "You want a medium focal length F/1.8?.... here's the 17 lenses you can choose from". Suppose that's not a bad thing. There will ALWAYS be tons of Nikon lenses floating around.

[@JamesE707]

Briefly, I have serviced my OMs to the point where the wind-on is near silky smooth, as is shutter operation, and metering - athough I frequently adopt the Sunny 16 Rule. Concerning my Nikon Ai 50mm f1.8 lens, sometime ago when I moved house, the said lens began to show severe signs of fungal growth. So what was I to do? I needed to get behind the front element to attempt to tackle this issue. To cut a long story short, I applied diluted H2O2 (Hydrogen Peroxide) to the element, and bingo, I now have a clean Nikkor 50mm f1.8 lens! Lubricating the lens helicoids on both OM/Nikkor lenses is not for the faint hearted - however, in my case both results are worth the effort.. My father's 1977 OM Zuiko 50mm f1.8 runs beautifully smooth. I've also calibrated my Nikkor 50mm for infinity focus - again a tricky process, but the result was worth it. Also worthy of interest too - I've lubricated the tiny ball bearing and its holder so that both lenses 'click' smoothly, especially the OM lenses. On the subject of lens handling, I agree - I also prefer the Zuikos without doubt throughout the OM and Nikkor range. Enjoy your 'new' Nikon FM!

[@zenography7923]

It sounds like you really know what you're doing when working on these cameras - I've replaced light seals and prisms and re-soldered electrical connections but haven't been bold enough to do more... Russian cameras and lenses are a different matter, much more amenable to cleaning and adjusting, though as yet I haven't fully mastered even those! Practice makes perfect I suppose...

[@JamesE707]

Well, like yourself I guess, my efforts do have a limitation. I've looked into the cct board for the OM2 deep inside - the problem with these is not so much what needs to be done, but **access**, which is so difficult. BTW I have an Elect/Electroncs degree, so that kinda helps, but only to a point. Many intuitive DIYers out there have gone further than me. ;o)

[@Thomas_Geist]

OM-1 shutter speed dial in not on the rear of the lens. It's on the body behind the lens. You didn't mention the mirror lockup on the OM-1 which greatly reduces vibration and slightly sharper images when using a tripod, although the OM series had one of the best mirror damping systems available. I was disappointed when the took the mirror lockup off the OM-2.

[@joaovtaveira]

4:20 again, you have, first, to tun the leaver on the front of the camera to the "R" position, and when you finish, turn it back to where it was.

[@raywilson9450]

The OM viewfinder deserves a mention. Against which all others are judged.

[@artistjoh]

Not much to go wrong with an FM, but I have to admit, I prefer the 1/4000th and matrix metering on the FA.

[@madcarew.3256]

bought mine new about 1977 cost over £220...and they wanted xtra for a case!! must get it out of cupboard where its lived for about 20 years!

[@zenography7923]

Sounds like it's time to run a film through it!

[@wayneandrews3128]

TONY, SEND ME YOUR ADDRESS AND i'LL COME TAKE IT OUT FOR YOU

[@mohammadashrafkhokhar5678]

they are both nice cameras.i had both. the om1 and its viewfinder is bright.but no aperture or shutter speed display.it has a smooth shutter sound.battery is impossible to get.shutter speed ring needs getting use to.and rewind button is too small to operate.nikon on the other hand is well layed out.all the controls are were one needs it to be.viewfinder is brilliant its got all the information you need.the camera has a much more positive controls.i dont want to be biased.they are both lovely cameras.enjoy your photography

[@zenography7923]

I too am not over keen on the shutter speed selector on the Olympus; they're both lovely cameras though and I'd be hard pushed to say which I would keep, if I could keep only one...

[@ordinosaurs]

The 50mm on your OM-1 is a late model, possibly intended for an OM-10. Although that was never acknowledged, those lenses were engineered to a price point, and later ones are simplified compared to the early "silver nosed" ones that graced the OM-1s early on. Now, silver nosed 50mm are smoother to operate, but they are single coated unlike multi-coated later models. But for b&w photography, single coating is perfectly adequate. So choose your poison : either buttery smooth operation, but best results in b&w, or harsher mechanism, but better results with colour films and slides... Also, late models apertures have a tendancy to become sticky over time, which never happens with an early "silver nose" design.

[@zenography7923]

I've only had one case of sticky blades on an OM zuiko lens - an f1.8 50mm blacknose!

[@neilpiper9889]

Why has the Fm not got Fm on the front. The only Nikon made without the model number on the front is the FE, which just has it on the back.

[@zenography7923]

I don't know why that could be - variations between production years perhaps?

[@alvinjohnchandra2509]

Most of the Nikon cameras in the 70's did not print the model name on the front such as Nikon F2, and Nikkormat (ftb, ft2, ftn) cameras. It was printed near the film rewind or back below the winding lever. The distinction between an FM and FE in appearance is the small button on the shutter speed dial of the FE. Later in the 80's the model name started appearing in front.

[@vincecarnevale4406]

Used Nikon cameras for years,controls felt natural to the hand where they were supposed to be,OM1 cameras thou very refined did not feel natural to my hand placement ,was always grasping for the controls,my opinion.