This camera, and it's brother the CX-2 are basically the root of the whole "Lomography" scene. Without these cameras, the Russians wouldn't have had such an awesome camera to base their LC-A on. The two cameras are about the same size and have many similar features; such as zone-focus, exposure system, flash mode etc. Even the text on the camera is nearly the same!

But the CX-1 does have some differences to the LC-A too. It has an ISO64 setting instead of ISO50. It has a minimum focus distance of 0.9m (instead of 0.8m). And the front-plate swivels open to reveal the lens - I don't think the Russians could copy that feature effectively and cheaply! I may even dare to say that the lens is a better quality one than the Russian Minitar lens found on the LC-A - there is rarely any vignetting to photos produced with the CX-1.

If you can find one, grab one quickly. It is a fantastic little camera. However, it is recognised for it's quality so commands a high price, especially on eBay where it costs upwards of £50. I'm not mad enough to pay eBay prices and found one at a camera fair for a bargain £8! Well worth the investment!

The CX-2 variant has a self-timer (useful for those holiday photos!), and some other minor improvements. This is even more expensive nowadays though!