The Canon AE-1 Program (1981-1987) refined the original AE-1 with full program auto exposure, a centre-weighted meter, and the FD-mount that supported one of the deepest 35 mm lens ecosystems of its era. A best-seller in its day and still one of the most-recommended student cameras.
Pricing in 2026: EUR 120-220 with 50 mm f/1.8 Canon FD.
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The famous AE-1 "Canon cough" - a squeaking sound on shutter release - is from dried lubricant on the mirror mechanism. The fix is a EUR 50-80 CLA; until done, shutter timing is unreliable.
Check the LCD on top of the body and the LED meter in the viewfinder; both should respond to half-press of the shutter.