The first model appeared in 1935, with that model the shutter speeds were indicated by the meter needle. While taking the reading a dial was moved to the aperture to be used and the needle would show the shutter speed.

In 1937 the model B was released using a match needle system. In use an index is set against the film speed group. While taking the reading one of two spots on a disk is aligned to the meter needle. The shutter speed and aperture pairs can then be read. As the calculator dial is moved a baffle for bright light hinges in front of the meter cell. Two spots (red, green) are shown on the dial corresponding to whether the baffle is in use. The price was £3.3.0.

In the post-war version of the Ilford Meter a needle moves over a scale of light values. On a dial the film speed index is aligned to the light value number and the shutter speed and aperture pairs can be read. The price was £7.18.6.

The pre-war meter has two sensitivity scales, the higher scale is activated by pressing a button. The meter needle moves over a scale which gives the correct shutter speed for a set film speed and aperture (23° Scheiner, f8). For different film speeds and apertures a calculator contained in the case is used. The scale is calibrated from 1/500 - 32s, the calculator from 1/1000 - 96s. In the early 1940s two other versions were produced - with Leica calibrations and for cine. The meter remained on sale until around 1950. Pre-war the price was £3.18.6.

On the post-war model the needle moves over a scale of light values. The light value shown is transferred to the calculator which takes the form of a band with light values and shutter speeds printed on it. A small wheel is moved to set the light value against the film speed printed on the case. The shutter speed and aperture pairs can then be read.