[3] The Canonflex was introduced in May, 1959 by Canon of Tokyo, Japan as their first 35 mm single-lens reflex camera.

The Super-Canomatic lens features fully automatic aperture operation, using two internal connections.

Though the breech-lock mount itself remained unchanged until the introduction of the EF lenses for EOS autofocus cameras in the late 1980s, the actuating levers of the Canomatic or R-series lenses operate differently from their FL and FD descendants.

This aided rapid shutter release but hindered tripod mounting and rendered the leather case unwieldy.

At the right-hand camera front is a wide accessory shoe taking a selenium exposure meter, which couples to the shutter speed dial.

Additionally, it featured a selenium exposure meter and a low-profile film advance lever built into the top cover.