35mm SLR

Olympus OM-1 Value and Price Guide (1972–1979)

Condition-adjusted values, full specifications, production history, and live links to current listings.

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Low (good)

£100

Median (excellent)

£180

High (mint)

£320

Market value by condition

ConditionRange

Mint

As-new, full kit, original box

£260 to £320

Excellent

Clean cosmetics, fully working

£180 to £260

Good

Honest user, minor signs of use

£100 to £180

For parts

Not working, sold for spares

£30 to £60

Values are estimates based on real sale data and are not formal appraisals.

Price history

Median value, last 12 months

Sourced from sold listings

Specifications

Format
35mm SLR
Mount
Olympus OM
Country
Japan
Production
1972–1979
Type
35mm SLR
Mount
Olympus OM bayonet
Shutter
Mechanical cloth focal-plane, 1s to 1/1000s
Meter
CdS through-the-lens
Weight
510g body only
Notes
Original mercury cell, replace with MR-9 adapter or zinc-air.

Production history

Maitani-san built the OM-1 to prove a full-frame SLR could be small and quiet. The body still feels remarkably compact against contemporaries, and the Zuiko primes are sharp, light, and cheap. Values rise sharply for serviced examples with fresh foam light seals and a functional meter (the original mercury-cell circuit is a known weak point).

Frequently asked

How much is a Olympus OM-1 worth?

A Olympus OM-1 in working condition typically sells for £100 to £320, with a median around £180. Mint or boxed examples can exceed the top of this range; non-working "for parts" bodies sell well below it.

When was the Olympus OM-1 made?

The Olympus OM-1 was produced from 1972 to 1979 in Japan.

What format is the Olympus OM-1?

It is a 35mm SLR camera using the Olympus OM mount.

Are these values formal appraisals?

Values are estimates based on real sale data and are not formal appraisals. For insurance or auction-grade appraisals, consult a specialist.

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