100 Cameras Project: Nikon FM3A 35mm Analog SLR Camera

The Nikon FM3A 35mm Analog SLR was the successor to the renowned Nikon FM2N camera of 1984 and was the last member of the successful, semi-professional line of Nikon compact 35 mm SLRs which includes the Nikon FM (released 1977), FE (1978), FM2 (1982) and FE2 (1983).

The major improvements in the FM3A compared to the FM2N are the hybrid electro-mechanically controlled aluminium-bladed focal plane shutter, the aperture priority auto-exposure mode, the match-needle exposure control system and provision for through-the-lens (TTL) off-the-film (OTF) electronic flash automation. In other words, the FM3a merged the robust mechanical systems of the FM2N with the proven, reliable electronic exposure controls of the FE2. The common denominator among this series is the use of rugged copper aluminium alloy chassis and high-quality Nikon vertical bearing-mounted metal shutter and ball-bearing mounted film advance, with improved feature levels in later models, minor external controls and cosmetic differences.