Canon A2 / A2e

known in the rest of the world as the EOS 5

Dates:                 November 1992 thru 1998

Type:                    35mm SLR

Lens Mount:       Canon EF

Focus:                 TTL Phase Detection Autofocus (5 Zone)

Exposure:          PASM autoexposure, 16 zone evaluative metering

Flash:                 Built in Flash

Frame Rate:     Up to 5 frames per second

Notes:                 Called the A2 and A2e in the USA, they were called the EOS 5 in the rest of the world. It uses the EOS bayonet mount introduced in 1987. It featured a built in zoom flash, AF assist light, a fast motor drive, and several preset autoexposure modes. Although aimed at the “prosumer” user, it became popular with professionals.

The sole difference between the A2 and the A2e is that the latter had Canon’s Eye Control Auto Focus feature unique to Canon. Infra red LED’s sense where the eye is looking in the view finder and select the AF zone closest to that area. Otherwise the two cameras are identical.

The camera was powered by a 6volt lithium 2CR5 battery. It also had an optional BP-5 Battery Pack and using it the camera could be powered by “D” batteries attached to the belt of the user. There was also the VG-10 Vertical Grip which attached to the bottom of the camera.

At the time of the camera’s production, there was a U.S. patent on the use of a digital scale to show under- or over-exposure in a metered-manual SLR. Canon did not want to pay the patent holder, and therefore omitted the -2/+2 (in half-stops) scale in the A2/A2e, leaving just an over or under indication. The European/Japanese market EOS 5 had the scale and on account of this many American photographers preferred the imported model. This is a firmware difference only, and there is at least one third-party firm which will install EOS 5 firmware on an A2/A2e, thereby adding this scale.

Serial No.:          1803618

Condition:           Excellent

Accessories:      This camera came with the VG-10 vertical grip

Acquisition:         Acquired from listing on Craig’s List.

Canon LogoThis page is not a review of this Canon equipment but rather a record of an item in my collection. I have no connection with Canon and receive no remuneration nor benefit for this listing. It is for my own use and possibly your enjoyment!.