Olympus OM10?

Question

I was looking for a film camera and this one really caught my eye. The problem is that the camera is almost 30 years old. I was wondering wheter the age of it would have a signifigant negative effect of the image. If anyone knows anything about this camera please help me.

Answer 1

You'd be better off with an OM-1 or OM-2N. The OM-10's were susceptible to "oily" magnets. Lubricant migrates to the shutter magnets and causes overexposures. The OM-10 was a consumer model the single digit ones were more resilient. The OM-1 takes a mercury battery no longer available but an adapter or "wein" type hearing aid battery works well. If the camera does not have oily magnets it will take fine pictures depending on the lens. You'll need a "manual adapter" if you want to have any real control however.

Answer 2

Since its the lens that determines the quality of the picture, thats where you look first. Then examine the body for wear, dings, or anything that doesn't appear to be right. Open the rear door and check for the same. A 50 year old camera will work just as good as a new one if its been kept well.

Answer 3

The lens has more to do with image quality than the actual camera body. However, it might be a good idea to have the camera serviced since light seals do go bad and so does lubricant. I suggest contacting Garry at http://www.garryscamera.com and asking if he services your Olympus. If he does it will probably cost $45 + $8 shipping. I've used his services for 9 cameras and have been well satisfied.

For the record, I use a 30 year old Minolta and a 52 year old Minolta. I use lenses at least 30 years old and I'll put my results against anyone's - straight prints, non-manipulated.