Vintage 1988 Canon Sure Shot Ace 35mm autofocus point-and-shoot film camera featuring one of Canon’s more unusual late-1980s designs.
Released in October 1988, the Sure Shot Ace was sold as the Autoboy Prisma in Japan and the Prima Shot in other markets. Canon designed it as a fully automatic compact, but gave it two features that make it stand out from most point-and-shoot cameras of the period: a second low-angle viewfinder on top of the camera and a detachable infrared wireless remote control built into the side of the body. Canon identifies it as the world’s first camera with built-in wireless remote control. (Canon Global)
The normal front-facing eye-level viewfinder works like a conventional compact camera, while the separate top-mounted prism finder allows you to compose while holding the camera at waist level or low to the ground. It can also be useful for shooting over crowds or from unusual angles without having to bring the camera directly to your eye. Canon’s Japanese name, “Prisma,” specifically referenced this roof-prism low-angle finder. (Canon Global)
The other major feature is the detachable remote module housed in the camera’s right side. Remove the module and it becomes an infrared shutter remote, allowing the camera to be triggered wirelessly for self-portraits, group photos, or tripod shooting. Period sources advertised an effective distance of roughly 16–17 feet. (Canon Global)
Equipped with a fixed Canon 35mm f/3.5 lens with three elements in three groups. Autofocus uses Canon’s active near-infrared triangulation system with prefocus capability, while exposure is handled automatically through electronically controlled programmed AE. The built-in flash fires automatically when needed. (Canon Global)
Film handling is also fully automatic. Load a roll of DX-coded 35mm film, align the leader, close the back, and the camera automatically loads and advances the film. Rewind is motorized as well. The camera reads DX-coded film from ISO 50–1600. (Canon Global)
Tested and working. Camera powers on, shutter fires, autofocus responds, built-in flash fires, film transport operates, and electronic functions are working during testing. Detachable remote is present. Battery is included.
Features
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Uses standard 35mm film
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Canon 35mm f/3.5 prime lens
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Active near-infrared autofocus
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Prefocus capability
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Fully automatic programmed exposure
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Built-in automatic flash
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Standard eye-level optical viewfinder
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Unique top-mounted low-angle / waist-level prism viewfinder
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Detachable infrared wireless shutter remote
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Automatic film loading and advance
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Automatic rewind
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DX film-speed reading from ISO 50–1600
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Electronic self-timer
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Requires one 2CR5 lithium battery
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Battery included
Vintage condition with cosmetic wear from previous use, including surface scratches, scuffs, finish wear, dust, and general handling marks throughout, as pictured. Wrist strap shows wear. Please review all photos closely for exact condition.
Final Sale Disclaimer
This is a vintage film camera and is sold as-is and final sale. While the camera has been tested and is working at the time of listing, vintage electronic and mechanical components can be unpredictable and future performance cannot be guaranteed. Film was not developed as part of testing.
For additional measurements or questions, please shoot us a message.
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