Olympus History

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• History of Cameras
  • 1936-1970
    • Medium-Format Cameras
    • 35mm Cameras
    • Pen Series
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  • 1971-1992
    • OM Series
    • OM Two Digit Series
    • XA Capsule Cameras
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    • Fully Automatic Zoom Cameras
  • 1991-
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While the single digit OM Series models were created for professionals, the double digit models were developed for general users. In 1979, Olympus introduced the affordably priced OM10, which featured automatic exposure (AE) based on TTL direct light metering, and a fixed viewfinder screen. The OM10 attracted intense interest and was very popular. The series continued to evolve with the subsequent introduction of OM20, OM30 and OM40, all of which offered advanced features.

OM10

OM30

OM40

OM707

OM10   (1979) Launched in 1979, the OM10 was an entry-level AE camera with TTL direct light metering. An affordably priced motor drive (winder), strobe flash unit and standard zoom lens were introduced at the same time as the body. Though the OM10 was an aperture-priority AE camera, an optional manual adapter allowed the shutter speed to be set between 1 and 1/1000 sec. (This manual system was built into the OM20.) To minimize the price, the OM10 was designed as a molded body, and the winder and shutter units were automatically assembled. Thorough value engineering allowed Olympus to market the OM10 at a body price of ¥40,000 yen.

OM30   (1982) The OM30, which debuted in 1982, featured electronic focus detection. Focus, front focus and rear focus were all displayed in the viewfinder. The camera also had a "Zero-In Focus" system, which automatically operated the shutter as soon as the image was focused. When used in combination with a specially designed zoom lens, the OM30 also provided an autofocus capability. There was debate within Olympus about whether an autofocus system should be used on single-lens reflex camera. In the end, it was decided to provide a focus-aid system, which helped the photographer to set the focus.

OM40   (1985) When the OM40 was launched in 1985, the advertising copy included a bold claim that the camera would make back-lit shots easy. The OM40 employed electro-selective pattern (ESP) metering, which is regarded as the basic form of pattern metering. It also provided automatic correction in back-lit conditions, and new program modes. One of the most difficult challenges facing the factory engineers was to achieve the required level of stability in the molded urethane used in the OM40 fs body grip. The OM40 was the final model in the OM Two Digit series.

OM707   (1986) Launched in 1986, the OM707 was the first Olympus AF single-lens reflex camera with an auto-winder. Most of the controls were fully automated. Olympus offered a range of eight AF lenses designed for the OM mount. The grip containing the camera's power supply was detachable, and there was also a grip with a built-in pop-up strobe flash. The OM101 was subsequently introduced as a manual focus version. Olympus did not develop any further exchangeable-lens AF single-lens reflex cameras. The OM101 was the last of its type.

* Other products can be viewed on the product line-up page.

* The information shown is based on information in initial product announcements.

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