Canon Sure Shot A-1/Prima AS-1/Autoboy D5

Sure Shot WP-1 by John Kratz (Image rights).

Part of the Canon Sure Shot/Prima/Autoboy series of compact cameras from Canon. When it hit the market in April 1994, the Autoboy D5 (aka Sure Shot A-1 and WP-1 and Prima AS-1) was the world's smallest and lightest underwater camera that could also be used equally well on land. Fully automatic, the camera has 3-point smart autofocus that is effective for distances from 1-3m and a fixed focus macro mode (with forced flash) for underwater shots as close as 45cm. It is completely weather-sealed and robust while remaining compact and lightweight.

Prima AS-1 gets wet by Arty Smokes (Image rights).

Specifications

• Lens: 32mm, f/3.5 (6 elements in 6 groups)
• Programmed shutter: 1/250-1/60s.
• Viewfinder: large and bright for use with swimming goggles, autofocus frame, ready light, flash warning.
• Flash: Automatic, but can be disabled. GN: 7.5m at ISO 100.
• Date/Time feature with LCD.
• Automatic winding.
• Waterproof: To five metres, using rubber seals and O-rings.
• Power: One 3V CR123A battery
• Dimensions & weight: 133x88x56 mm, 385 g (with battery)

Links

• Sure Shot A-1/Autoboy D5 in the Canon Camera Museum.
• Prima AS-1 and Sure Shot WP-1 in Sylvain Halgand's collection.
• Sure Shot A-1/WP-1 on Canon's US site.