Canon VT De Luxe M (VTDM)
Produced in 1958 and limited to about 2,550 units, the VT de luxe M (VTDM) was the last of the VT de luxe models.
The original model was released in 1957 as the VT de luxe (VTD). The next version was the VTDZ and finally, this version was the VTDM. The big change for the VTDZ was the addition of an opening key to lock the film back. With the VTDM, the lock stayed but they also added a metal shutter curtain and upgraded the viewfinder to a silver coating. The silver coating gave the VTDZ viewfinder a cool tone compared to the early models.
The VTDM was the lowest production of the VT de luxe models and was the last of the Canon RF to use a split shutter speed dial. So there is some historic merit to the VTDM. The good news is the Canon RFs have not had the interest that the Leica and Nikon RFs have enjoyed.
My Take:
Forget the history. This is a solid camera that has lasted 65 years and will last for many more. The trigger advance is a plus for some and not for others. I prefer a lever advance but can adjust when using the trigger. There are not very many affordable platforms for vintage film cameras, but the Canon RF may be one. The quality of the bodies makes them still viable today. Match that with some nice Canon lens, Leica lens, and other screw mount lenses and you have an affordable option with great capability.
Lens: 35mm f1.5
Film: Cinestill 50
