Camera · Rangefinder
Canon Canonet QL17 GIII
1972-1982
Discontinued35mmBeginnerIntermediate
Street photography
- Format
- 35mm
- Mount
- Fixed lens
- Metering
- Built-in
- Shutter
- 1/500
- Battery
- 1.3V H-D mercury cell (discontinued); needs an adapter or substitute cell
- Weight
- 620g
Battery req.
Max speed
Best for
- Street photography
- Budget rangefinder entry
- Low light (f/1.7 lens)
- Learning manual with auto backup
Features
- 40mm f/1.7 Canon lens
- Shutter-priority auto and full manual
- QL (Quick Loading) film system
- Rangefinder focusing
- Hot shoe and German flash socket
Limitations
- Battery required for meter (not shutter)
- Mercury battery no longer available
- Fixed lens only
- Heavy for compact
Common issues to check
- Light seal deterioration
- Sticky shutter blades
- Rangefinder misalignment
- Lens haze/fungus
- Meter inaccuracy
Buying guide
The QL17 GIII (1972-1982) was a long-selling bestseller, with about 1.2 million made. It has a 40mm f/1.7 lens. Designed for a 1.3V mercury cell, now unavailable (use an adapter or a substitute cell). Test the shutter at all speeds. The QL (Quick Load) system makes film loading easy. Check rangefinder calibration.
Pricing
- Typical range
- £100 - £200
- Excellent condition
- ~£280
Black version slightly higher. Indicative, no dated source.
Prices as of 2025-12. UK market, may vary.
Specifications
| Format | 35mm |
| Years produced | 1972-1982 |
| Mount | Fixed lens |
| Shutter type | Leaf |
| Shutter speeds | 1/4 - 1/500 |
| Flash sync | all speeds |
| Metering | Cds |
| Battery required | Yes (1.3V H-D mercury cell (discontinued); needs an adapter or substitute cell) |
| Weight | 620g |
| Dimensions | 120 x 75 x 60mm |