This is a II A with slow shutter speeds down to 1 sec. A high-end model priced at an economical 46,000 yen with a Serenar 50mm f/2.8 lens included. There was no film speed indicator dial on the film advance knob.

Budget version of the unsynced Canon III A with top shutter speed reduced from 1/1000 to 1/500 and no film reminder. Lens name changed from “Serenar” to “Canon” during production (with introduction of IV Sb):

From between serial number 11189x and 11498x onward, the model name was marked on the film loading diagram on the bottom of the shutter crate (see Canon II F).

The II D didn't get its own user manual, it shares the IV S2 manual (see IV Sb below), but it barely rates a mention in that apart from a note that it doesn't have flash sync. See also the II F model.

The Canon IID is a 35mm rangefinder camera from 1952. It features an M39 (LTM) mount, the same as Leica screwmount cameras. In fact, the IID is largely a copy of the classic Barnack Leica design, with some smart additions of its own.
 

The most notable difference between the Canon IID and Barnack Leica cameras, such as the IIIC, is the integration of the rangefinder and viewfinder into one window. All Barnack Leica models have a separate window for focusing and composing, which can make the casual Leica user like me go crosseyed.  Leica didn't integrate its viewfinder and rangefinder windows until the bayonet-mount M3 in 1954. For me, Canon's integration makes the IID a much more usable camera than any Barnack Leica by today's standards. The rangefinder in the IID is bright and easy to focus with. There's even a lever around the rewind knob that allows you to quickly magnify the viewfinder/rangefinder for fine focusing. A cool addition! The only downside to the finder is that it's quite small, with no frame-lines to help you compose with. Also, if you're a glasses wearer like me, it's very difficult to see the entire finder.

The IID doesn't quite have the same  build quality of a Leica, but it's pretty darn close. Construction is solid, and while slightly larger, heavier, and more angular than a Leica, it's still ergonomically pleasing. The film advance and rewind functions are operated by knurled knobs, which can be pretty slow compared to more modern film cameras. Fast shutter speeds (1/40th- 1/1000th, plus B)and slow shutter speeds (1 second- 1/25th, plus T) are are accessed using two separate dials, which is pretty common to early rangefinder cameras. There's a small "cup" surrounding the shutter release, which makes accidentally firing the shutter difficult when its being pulled out or shoved into your bag. The frame counter is located around the advance knob, and must be reset manually before each roll. Film is loaded through the bottom of the camera, just like with a Barnack Leica. Unlike Barnack Leicas, the removable Canon take-up reel has a weird spring mechanism to help you remove it from the body. Strange...

Canon II D Rangefinder

General Overview

The Canon II D, introduced around 1952, belonged to Canon’s expanding postwar screw-mount rangefinder family. As a continuation of the “Canon II” line, it inherited design cues from predecessors such as the Canon II and IIF, offering improvements in shutter controls and viewfinder/rangefinder ergonomics. Like other Canon LTM (Leica Thread Mount) cameras of this period, the II D was known for its robust build, cloth focal-plane shutter, and compatibility with a growing selection of Canon Serenar or third-party LTM lenses.

Historical Significance

• Evolution of Canon’s Rangefinders: The II D helped bridge earlier Canon “S” and “II” variants with the upcoming III- and IV-series by introducing refined controls and a slightly improved viewfinder experience.
• Postwar Growth: During the early 1950s, Canon continued to establish itself as a competitor to European camera makers. The II D marked another step in Canon’s international presence.
• Increasing Lens Options: By retaining the LTM mount, the II D could be paired with the expanding Serenar lineup as well as an ever-growing range of compatible third-party lenses.
• Collector Niche: Though overshadowed by more famous models like the IVSB or the Canon III, the II D remains an intriguing piece of Canon’s early-1950s rangefinder evolution.

Collectibility and Value

As with other Canon LTM cameras, the Canon II D can appeal to collectors who appreciate postwar Japanese design. While it is not as frequently encountered as the Canon IVSB, the II D’s production numbers were still moderate. Well-preserved examples typically fall in the €200–€400 range in European markets, especially if paired with a working Serenar/Canon 50mm lens. Cameras requiring shutter or rangefinder repairs may be found at lower prices, but restoration can prove challenging.

Canon II D Specifications

Collector Notes

1. Check Shutter Curtains: Aging cloth curtains are prone to pinholes or wrinkling. A clean, lubricate, and adjust (CLA) can restore smooth operation.
2. Rangefinder Alignment: The II D’s viewfinder/rangefinder may be dim or misaligned if not serviced. Confirm accurate focusing or plan on a professional calibration.
3. Lens Condition: Vintage Canon Serenar glass can develop haze, fungus, or coating wear. Inspect thoroughly if performance is a priority.
4. Accessories & Trim: Original leather cases, lens caps, or Canon-branded filters may add minor collector interest. Some II D bodies also featured unique engraving details.

Though sometimes overshadowed by the more iconic IV-series, the Canon II D offers a rich glimpse into Canon’s early-1950s push for quality screw-mount rangefinders. It stands as a valuable acquisition for collectors seeking a camera that bridges the transitional years between Canon’s pioneering “S” and advanced “III/IV” designs.