A Quick Historical Snapshot
The Ricoh Singlex TLS is a classic 1970s 35mm SLR that embodies the no-nonsense engineering of its time. Built around the popular M42 screw mount, it gave photographers access to a wide range of lenses while prioritising durability and tactile control.
Paired with the Petri Auto 55mm f/2.8, this kit sits firmly in the “reliable workhorse” camp rather than the “glass cabinet collectible.” It was made to be used, bumped around in bags, and taken into real-world shooting conditions.
The first time I picked up a fully mechanical camera, what shocked me most was the silence between clicks — no menus, no screens, just the thunk of the mirror and the knurled feel of the shutter-speed dial under my fingers.
In an age where cameras are computers with lenses, the Singlex TLS reminds us that photography can be beautifully simple: a light-tight box, a shutter, and a solid standard lens.
Practical Technical Highlights
Fully Mechanical Reliability
The Ricoh Singlex TLS operates entirely mechanically. Shutter speeds, mirror return, and film advance are all spring- and gear-driven. A battery is only needed for the built-in light meter; if it dies, the camera still shoots happily in full manual mode.
M42 Mount Versatility
With its M42 screw mount, the camera was designed to accept a broad ecosystem of lenses. The bundled Petri Auto 55mm f/2.8 is a straightforward, standard lens with manual focus and aperture — ideal for learning the fundamentals.
Metering and Power
The original meter was designed for a mercury cell, but modern zinc-air replacements or dedicated adapters make it usable today. Many photographers still prefer a handheld meter or Sunny 16, keeping the Singlex TLS completely battery-free in practice.
Why It Still Matters in 2025
Perfect Gateway into Analog Photography
If you are curious about analog but do not want to chase expensive collector bodies, the Singlex TLS is a great place to start. It offers everything you need to learn exposure, focus, and composition without distractions.
A Natural Partner for Mirrorless Cameras
The Petri Auto 55mm f/2.8 is not limited to film. With an inexpensive M42 adapter, it can be mounted on most modern mirrorless systems like Sony E, Canon RF, and Fujifilm X. On digital, it becomes a character lens with a gentle rendering and a slightly vintage contrast curve.
Sustainable, Repairable, and Built to Last
Buying second-hand mechanical gear is more than nostalgic; it is sustainable. A well-maintained Singlex TLS can easily outlast multiple generations of digital bodies, and when something does go wrong, many issues can be serviced by camera technicians.
Techniques & Creative Workflows That Shine
Learning Manual Exposure the Right Way
The combination of a straightforward shutter-speed dial and an aperture ring on the lens makes exposure intuitive. Adjust one, watch the meter (or your external meter), and choose the balance between motion blur and depth of field.
Slow, Deliberate Street and Everyday Photography
With a 55mm field of view, you are close to what your eyes naturally see. It is perfect for relaxed street walks, portraits of friends, and daily life documentation. The slight telephoto effect encourages clean framing and simple backgrounds.
Analog-Digital Hybrid Workflow
A popular modern approach is to shoot film with the Ricoh Singlex TLS, then mount the Petri lens on a digital mirrorless body for backup coverage or behind-the-scenes stills. This keeps your look cohesive while giving you the safety net of digital files.
Buying Guide for Second-Hand Units
Key Checks Before You Commit
Vintage gear rewards a careful inspection. When considering a Ricoh Singlex TLS with Petri Auto 55mm f/2.8, use this quick checklist:
- ✅ Verify clean optics before use.
- ✅ Test shutter speed consistency.
- ✅ Confirm mirror and advance smoothness.
- ✅ Replace meter battery with zinc-air alternative if needed.
- Listen for even shutter sound at all speeds.
- Check light seals for deterioration.
- Inspect lens blades for oil.
- Advance film lever for tension consistency.
Lens and Body Condition
Hold the lens up to a bright light source and look for haze, fungus, or separation. A bit of dust is normal, but cloudy glass or rainbow-like patterns inside are warning signs. For the body, check the viewfinder for clarity and make sure the mirror is clean and responsive.
Essential Accessories to Consider
A basic kit might include a strap, a lens cap, and perhaps a simple mechanical cable release. A small handheld light meter and a few carefully chosen accessories will make the camera easier to live with day to day.
Final Thoughts
The Ricoh Singlex TLS paired with the Petri Auto 55mm f/2.8 is not about prestige; it is about honest, dependable photography. It delivers a tactile shooting experience, a versatile standard focal length, and the flexibility to cross over into modern mirrorless systems with a simple adapter.
For anyone wanting a robust entry into film or a characterful M42 lens for digital work, this humble 1970s kit still has plenty to offer — and buying it second-hand keeps a solid piece of engineering out of landfill and in the hands of creators where it belongs.
FAQs
Is the Ricoh Singlex TLS compatible with modern digital cameras? Yes. With the right M42 adapter, the Petri 55mm lens can be used on most mirrorless systems like Sony E, Canon RF, and Fujifilm X.
Does the Ricoh Singlex TLS require batteries to work? No. The camera operates mechanically. A battery is only required for light metering, and modern substitutes exist for the original mercury cell.
What should I check before buying a second-hand Ricoh Singlex TLS kit? Inspect shutter accuracy, smooth film advance, a responsive mirror, and clear optics without haze or oil on the aperture blades.
Is the Petri Auto 55mm f/2.8 a good lens for beginners? Yes. It is simple to use, with reliable mechanical focus and pleasant image rendering, making it ideal for learning manual exposure and focus.
Ready to explore more? Discover other analog bodies, classic lenses, and practical accessories in the DutchThrift.com collection.
