Canon

Canon, a leading camera brand, was established in Japan in 1933. Over the decades, it has become known for delivering innovative and high-quality products to photographers worldwide.

In 1934, Precision Optical Instruments Laboratory was established in Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, as the predecessor to Canon. The primary focus of the laboratory was to carry out research on high-quality cameras.

In 1935, Canon introduced Japan's first-ever 35 mm focal-plane-shutter camera called the Hanza Canon. This marked a significant milestone in the history of Canon as it laid the foundation for the brand's future success in the camera market.

In 1949, the company officially becomes Canon Camera Co., Inc. marking a significant milestone in its history.

In 1950, Canon's first president, Takeshi Mitarai, visited America for the first time to participate in an international trade fair. Witnessing modern factories and high living standards, he returned to Tokyo and constructed a fireproof factory with steel-reinforced concrete in Shimomaruko to enhance Canon's global business prospects.

Canon launched the Cine 8-T 8mm cine camera in November 1956, marking its initial foray into camera diversification.

In 1959, Canon introduced its first 35mm single lens reflex (SLR) camera, the Canonflex, expanding its product range.

In 1964, Canon entered the office equipment market with the debut of the world's first 10-key electronic calculator, further diversifying its product range.

In 1970, Canon took on the challenge of developing Japan's first plain paper copying machine, marking a significant milestone in its diversification efforts.

The Macro Zoom Lens K5x25 is launched in May 1971, earning accolades and the prestigious Academy Scientific and Technical Award for its innovative design.

Canon introduced the NP-70, the world's first PPC with a liquid-dry system, revolutionizing the printing technology with innovative features.

A macro zoom lens for cinematography developed by Canon won an Academy Award in the science and technology category from the U.S. Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, highlighting Canon's contribution to the film industry.

The Canon AE-1, unveiled in 1976, was a groundbreaking camera with the first built-in CPU. This innovation automated functions like exposure control, making photography more accessible to amateurs and solidifying Canon's position as an industry innovator.

In 1978, the NP-8500, the world's first retention-type copier, was introduced.

Canon Singapore Pte. Ltd. was established in 1979 as Canon's regional headquarters for South & South East Asia.

In 1982, Oita Canon Inc. was established in Japan as part of Canon's expansion plans.

In 1983, Canon introduced the T series, which marked a significant shift towards electronic control systems for aperture, shutter speed, and focus. This advancement provided photographers with enhanced control and paved the way for future developments in camera technology.

In 1985, Canon introduced the Canon T80, its first autofocus SLR camera, marking the beginning of a new era in photography. The T80 featured three autofocus lenses, providing photographers with greater ease and convenience in capturing sharp, well-focused images.

In 1986, the Canovision 8 VM-E1, an 8 mm video camcorder, was introduced.

In February 1987, Canon unveiled the EOS 650, the first model to popularize the new EF lens series with USM for commercial use, garnering significant attention.

In 1988, on the 51st anniversary of Canon's founding, the company announced its second inauguration and revealed its corporate philosophy of kyosei, which focused on harmonious living and working together for the common good. This marked a significant step in Canon's commitment to ethical and sustainable business practices.

In 1989, Canon introduced the EOS-1, a top-of-the-line professional autofocus SLR camera, along with the L series EF lenses, setting a new standard in professional photography equipment.

In 1991, Canon received the first Chairman’s Award from the National Geographic Society for their initiative in collecting and recycling toner cartridges.

The CJ-10 was introduced by Canon in 1992 as the world's first digital desk-top printer, scanner, and full-color copier, revolutionizing office equipment technology.

Hajime Mitarai is appointed president of Canon Inc.

In 1994, Canon became the first marketing company in office automation to receive ISO 9002 certification in Singapore, which was later upgraded to ISO 9001:2000. This recognition highlighted Canon's commitment to quality service.

Canon unveils the EF75-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM lens, the world's first camera lens to feature image stabilization technology, revolutionizing photography.

In 1996, Canon introduced the Excellent Global Corporation Plan, which shifted the corporate mindset towards total optimization and profitability, leading to innovations that shaped Canon's current identity.

In 1997, Canon achieved a milestone as camera production reached 100 million units.

Canon reenters the binocular market after a 34-year break with the introduction of the 12 x 36 IS model, which features Canon's Vari-Angle Prism to compensate for hand-shake.

Canon introduces the DIGISUPER 25 XS broadcasting lens designed for high-definition television (HDTV) broadcasting purposes.

Canon Europe has been a partner of World Press Photo for 16 years. World Press Photo promotes professional standards in photography, organizes international contests for photojournalists, and serves as a global platform for press photography.

Canon introduced the EOS-1Ds as its first full-frame digital SLR in 2002.

In 2005, Canon introduced the EOS 5D, the first consumer-priced full-frame DSLR. This camera offered photographers a larger sensor, better low-light performance, and increased dynamic range, setting a new standard for digital photography.

In 2006, Fujio Mitarai was appointed as the second chairman of Japan Business Federation, a significant position in the Japanese business community.

In 2008, Canon introduced the imagePROGRAF iPF6100, the world's first large-format printer with an ambient light adjustment function.

In November 2009, Canon made a €730 million (US$1.1 billion) all-cash offer for the Dutch printer maker Océ. Canon had acquired majority ownership of Océ by March 2010, and completed the acquisition of 100% of shares in Océ by the end of 2011.

In 2010, Canon developed the world’s largest ultrasensitive CMOS sensor measuring 202 x 205 mm, showcasing advancements in sensor technology for imaging devices.

In 2011, Canon made its debut in the motion picture production industry by launching the Cinema EOS System, which included cinema cameras and lenses.

Canon introduces the EOS R System, a new imaging system, and launches the EOS R full-frame mirrorless camera and RF lens featuring a newly-developed lens mount.

Canon commemorates sixty years of presence and success in the Americas region.