Canon AE-1

{"overview":"The Canon AE-1 is a 35mm SLR introduced in 1976, built around the Canon FD manual-focus lens mount and offering shutter-priority automatic exposure. What an AE-1 is worth today is highly condition-sensitive: working shutters, clean foam and clear viewfinders push a camera toward the upper end of that range.","buying_guide":"The classic fault on the AE-1 is the \"Canon cough\" — a squeal from the mirror damper bushing that indicates dried lubricant and often precedes shutter hesitation; listen for it on firing. Also check the light-seal foam around the back door and mirror box (commonly perished), confirm the meter responds with a fresh 4LR44\/PX28 battery, and inspect the shutter curtains for pinholes. The original AE-1 offers shutter-priority AE and manual only, and the two typically trade at similar price levels at UK auction."},{"q":"Does the value drop if the AE-1 has the shutter squeal?","a":"Yes. A body with the audible \"Canon cough\" usually sells at the lower end of the range because buyers factor in a CLA cost; a quiet, smooth-firing example commands a clear premium."}],"confidence":78,"reasoning":"Twenty recent UK auction records give a reliable price picture, and the AE-1's format, mount and introduction year are well-established public facts."}

Generated summary, 19 Apr 2026 — not checked by hand; prices on this page come from the sales, not from this text.