A sneak peek at the Y16, a tiny Super 16 movie camera with a reflex optical viewfinder.

When the design on the Y16 started in 2022, three key objectives had to be met:

Ergonomics and ease of use

Great attention went into the ergonomics of the Y16. The symmetrical layout, paired with the central optical viewfinder angled at 45°, invites the operator to hold the camera with either left or right hand, viewing the subject with the left or right eye. The precision 5 axis machined aluminum body rests comfortably in your palm. Cradled like a vintage Hasselblad 500 C/M, the index finger automatically lands on either ‘Run’ button.

No more browsing through a labyrinth of camera settings in the menu. Start the camera. select a camera speed with the speed dial, set the correct aperture on your lens, and start filming. An analog footage indicator tells you how much footage is left. It’s that simple.

Compact self-blimped design

Built around 100ft daylight spools in a coaxial configuration, the camera is only 20cm (7.88”) in length and 9cm (3.54”) wide. This is achieved by tilting the spools inside the camera body by nine degrees, allowing the film path to be simplified and shortened.

An inner skeleton, consisting of the lens mount, rotating mirror shutter, focusing screen, relay optics, motor and film transport, is mounted on rubber insulators. Together with an Aaton style film transport, this results in a quieter running camera. An optional leather soft blimp, will reduce the noise level further for sync sound scenes.

Reliability and repairability

The camera is an all metal design. With proper maintenance at regular intervals, the camera should last decades. No exotics timing belts are used to prevent obsolescence. The Maxon brushless motor used in the Y16 will be available for another 15-20 years. Discontinued motors and controller boards are usually replaced by newer models with very similar dimensions. Maxon’s line of products are state of the art and extremely reliable. The electronic components are selected for their maximum lifespan.