Getting into vintage film photography usually means hunting down a camera body, a lens, and then accessories separately. This Sears KS500 kit bundles the essentials in one package for $69.99, but there's a catch: the camera hasn't been tested. So is it the right starting point?
Quick verdict
For $69.99, you get a Sears KS500 SLR body, a 50mm lens, a 135mm f/2.8 manual lens, a gently used nylon strap, and two leather-bound filter cases. The 135mm lens comes with all caps, though the camera body is missing its lens cap. The camera is described as in good condition with no dents or scratches on the body or lenses. The big unknown is whether it functions - the camera has not been tested. If you're a collector, hobbyist, or someone willing to gamble on a vintage find, the two-lens setup adds real value. If you need a camera that works right away, you may want to pass.
Who it suits
This kit is best for vintage SLR collectors and enthusiasts who are comfortable with untested gear. It's also a good fit for shooters who already have a working body and want backup lenses or spare parts. The included 50mm and 135mm f/2.8 manual lenses make this a project worth considering.
What stands out from the listed details
The kit includes two lenses: a standard 50mm and a 135mm f/2.8 manual lens with its lens caps. The camera body also features a built-in light meter and manual focus, which are expected for this era of SLR. The seller notes the camera is in good condition with no dents or scratches on the body or lenses, and the accessories include a gently used nylon strap and two leather-bound filter cases. Having both a normal lens and a telephoto lens in one package gives you flexibility without buying additional glass.
Meaningful trade-offs
The main trade-off is the untested camera body. There's no guarantee the shutter fires, the light meter works, or the film advance is smooth. Additionally, the camera itself is missing its lens cap, which means the front element of the 50mm lens will be exposed when not in use. If you're planning to shoot immediately, this kit carries risk. If you're looking for a restoration project or spare lenses, the risk is part of the fun.
Bottom line
At $69.99, the Sears KS500 kit is reasonably priced for a vintage SLR body plus two lenses and accessories. If you're willing to accept the untested nature and potentially service the camera, it's a worthwhile purchase for vintage photography enthusiasts. If you want a ready-to-shoot film camera, this might not be the one.
Vintage Sears KS500 SLR Film Camera with 50mm lens + 135mm lens
The camera comes with both a 50mm lens and a 135mm f/2.8 manual lens, plus a strap and filter cases. The strong point is the complete two-lens setup for the price. The limitation is that the camera has not been tested and is missing the body's lens cap, so you're taking a chance on functionality.
