This year marks the 50th anniversary of the sale of Canon’s first single-lens reflex camera in 1959 and marks the production of more than 53.68 million units (as of the end of December 2008).

 

January 6, 2009: This year marks the 50th anniversary of the sale of Canon’s first single-lens reflex camera in 1959 and marks the production of more than 53.68 million units (as of the end of December 2008).
The original Canon Flex, which was launched in May 1959, was followed by models that offered innovative technologies. In 1971 the company introduced the F-1, its first professional model; in 1976 the AE-1, the world’s first SLR camera to feature a built-in CPU; and in 1986 the T90, the top-of-the-line model of the T series line-up. In March 1987, Canon launched the EOS650, the world’s first AF SLR camera with electronic control for the entire system.
The year 2000 marked Canon’s full-fledged entry into the digital era with the launch of the EOS D30. Canon’s EOS Digital series has consistently led the digital evolution of SLR cameras with Canon-developed CMOS sensors and the high-performance DIGIC image processor, along with the company’s EF lens line-up. In 2008, Canon further strengthened its digital SLR line-up with the introduction of four new models, including the EOS 450D, which garnered the top share in Australia, Japan and other global markets, and the EOS 5D Mark II, the first SLR camera to incorporate full high-definition video recording.