Fujifilm MX-1200 (1999)

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The Fujifilm MX-1200 was announced on 1999-10-11 and marketed in Japan as the Finepix1200. The model name gives away that the sensor was only a one megapixel CCD. After having marketed the more sophisticated MX-2700 and MX-2900z models, Fuji needed to market a new model for the entry level class, a model with basic performance but still good image quality. To achieve this they used a new 1.3MP CCD and a primary color filter to shoot images with optimal color tone and brightness. The camera also used the well known features like auto white balance and auto exposure for automatic scene recognition function. They also implemented a high quality Fujinon broadcasting lens that allowed the user to shoot every corner sharp and clear.

 

To make it even easier for the user Fuji reduced battery consumption and with an energy saving mode even allowed 200 shots with LCD on and 500 shots without LCD as well as 130 minutes of continuous automatic playback on one set of 4 AA batteries! With features like 2x digital zoom, macro mode, auto strobe function, preview shooting, manual sharpness setting and slow sync shooting, this camera gave the user good value for his money. The entire handling of the camera, from power on to shooting images was simplified by using an intuitive dial button, simple icons and menu structure and by speeding up the internal RISC chip.

 

Of course today people would say that this camera is outdated and obsolete but put yourself in your 1999 shoes and look at what Fuji managed to pack into an entry level digital camera! Here is an interesting sidenote not many people know, Fujifilm marketed the MX-1200 primarily in a decent box with cables and manuals which was common back then but somehow a picture surfaced on the internet showing the MX-1200 in a blister package, like the ones you'd expect to see in discount stores and malls! This is  totally interesting because this would have been the first Fujifilm digital camera ever to be sold in a blister package. Above you can see pictures of the MX-1200, the Finepix1200, the original box and the blister package.