Oldest camera?

[doitashimash1te]

What's the oldest camera you've got?

I'll kick off: mine is a Zeiss Ikon Ikoflex, built in 1935.

http://www.xs4all.nl/%7Eacben/ikoflex.jpg

[Xmas]

Fed 1b (the toliet seat model) '36 I think.

Works ok.

Noel

edit P.S. also have '36 Contax II

[ZorkiKat]

Leica III from 1933, folding 6X9 Zeiss Ikon Bob from 1934. FED-1 from 1935, and Rolleicord IIa from 1939(?).



Jay

[Kin Lau]

Kodak 1a from about 1914. I've actually run a couple of 120 rolls thru it.

My Leica IIIa is from 1934, the uncoated Elmar is as well. This one I've used a fair bit.

[Ming The Merciless]

Well I have a Kodak Hawk-Eye from the teens or early 20's but the poor thing has a very cloudy viewing mechanism and it sits on my shelf looking rather regal but it's not in use. Then there is the Kodak Kodex from the late 30's to early 40's. I've used it a couple of times but not so much. It sits next to the Hawk-Eye. I have a third Kodak Brownie Hawkeye sitting in the closet. We used it when we were kids. It has light leaks but suprisingly a rather sharp lens.

So I guess the oldest camera that I use is from 1979 the Contax 139Q. The oldest Rangefinder is my Bessa but it's the only one I own.

[rbiemer]

I use my '55 vintage Zorki 3m as my main camera. And I own and occasionally use a Bolsey B2--but I'm not sure about the age of that one.
I do have a Leica f4/90 Elmar that dates from '37 and i use that regularly.
Rob

[dazedgonebye]

I seem to have several cameras from the 1950s.
The most used is my Fed-2.

[Wayne R. Scott]

I have an Empire State No. 1 Kodak 8x10 from around 1910.

http://www.fiberq.com/cam/ekc/emp1.htm


I also have a Gundlach-Manhattan Optical Korona View 4x5 circa 1909-1936. I don't know the exact year mine was mafuactured.

http://www.fiberq.com/cam/gundlach/view.htm

Yes, I use them. I had to patch the bellows on the Empire State and the film holders are wider than modern 8x10 film holders. I have 3 original 8x10 film holders that came with the Empire State No. 1 and they have 5x7 film inserts in them allowing me to use 5x7 film should I so desire.

The Korona View uses the same size lens board as my Graphic View II and Anniversary Speed Graphic. This allows me to transfer the lens and lens board to any one of the three I wish. The Korona View looks a little odd with the metal Graphic View II lens board on it as it is a Cherry wood camera.

Wayne

[oftheherd]

[QUOTE=

...

So I guess the oldest camera that I use is from 1979 the Contax 139Q. The oldest Rangefinder is my Bessa but it's the only one I own.[/QUOTE]

I still miss my 139Q. It just up and died on me one day. I suppose I should have it fixed, but I got a couple of Yashica FX 103's to replace it before their price shot up on the 'bay. Never bragg on a photographic forum about a good deal on what others don't know is a good camera. Anyway, the 103's seem to like the T* 50mm f/1.4 lens very well thank you. They use the other accessories too.

[trittium]

Voigtlander Alpin 1907-1928, but I don't know what year exactly

[Silva Lining]

I have a large Kodak camera from 1898 which I have used to take a photo by taping a peice of 5x4 sheet film to the inside of the back plate in a changing bag - I did get a decent photo too!

I have a '20's Voigtlander Bergheil which I use with a RADA 120 film back -It has an uncoated `skopar lens that pretty sharp.

I have a couple of Bessas from the 30's including a Bessa RF from 1936 which I use quite a bit - other than that my most used camera is my M3 from '56.

[oftheherd]

I am not sure what is my oldest camera so I don't know if I use my oldest one or not. But I am pretty sure I don't.

I use my Welta Welti (Raid, do you still have and use yours?) and those were made in the 30's and/or 40's. I use my Welta 6x6/645 folder from I would guess the same time. Also I am now testing my Zeiss Ikon folder. I have some older Kodaks and an old box camera, but I don't use them. I have a Welta Weltini (a 35mm folding rangefinder), but it was bought needing repair and I have yet to do so.

[manfromh]

My oldest are my Zorki-6 and Zenit-C. Both are from 1961. I have used the Zorki many times, but not the Zenit.

[Steve Bellayr]

Konica III 1957

[dee]

First batch Leica II in black 1932-3 + another 1933 second batch ... mere babies , by many collectors standards - but so useable still !

[sepiareverb]

Oldest one in common use is a Kodak Brownie 2A ca. 1924 or so- takes 120 film!

My 1114 is of unknown vintage- appears to be part (front standard & perhaps bed?) Kodak 2D with a different rear standard added on. As far as I can find Kodak never made a 2D 1114 camera.

[Peter_Jones]

Leica 111c 1949 , got Delta 3200 loaded at the mo.

[ZivcoPhoto]

1951 Leica IIIF with 1941 Elmar 50mm and 1934 Elmar 90mm.

[lasamo]

IIIc(509xxxx) with Summitar50/2(79xxxx) in both 1950 and
Leicaflex(114xxxx) with Summicron50/2(223xxxx) in both 1966

[arbib]

1954 Zorki 1e with 50mm F/2 J8. See avatar.

I do have an 1936 Contax IIIa with OEM Flash sync conversion. but there is a cog that is broken that winds the shutter curtains (I think). Anyway, the first curtain opens, but the second won't follow it. (a repair guy told my dad what was wrong, but my dad did not want to spend the $$ to fix..He had a Nikon FTn at the time.
I'll fix it someday...but $180.00 is not in my budget for at least a year.
While I build my Canon EF Film SLR ...

Canon EF, FD 28mm/2.8 SC Breech Lock, FD 50mm/1.4 SSC Breech Lock, Sunpak 411 Flash (Have)
FD 35mm/2 Breech Lock, FD 100mm/2.8 Breech Lock (Next to Get)

[Stephanie Brim]

My oldest usable camera is my Agfa, whatever model we decided it is. Takes good pictures anyway. My oldest camera was my Anniversary Brownie, which got cannibalized for a project involving a piece of foam core, some black foam, some popcicle sticks, some black paint, and some Elmer's Glue-All.

[colyn]

My first Leica a 1936 vintage IIIa with Summar given to me by my granddad when I was 6.

[Fotch]

My oldest 35mm is a Zeiss Ikon Tenax I
(1930-1941 f3.5 35mm Novar Compur - 24X24 format X 50 exposures/roll of 36), although I don't use it much.

My all time favorites are the 4x5 SLRs. Graflex R.B. Series D
(1928 to 1945 Folmer Graflex Corp. Really great for portraits of people or pets.

I have had older folders but only shot a couple of rolls in them. I am more interested in the cameras as a tool rather than just as object to collect. I do collect clocks and don't have them around to tell the time. To me, there is a difference.

The images from some of these old camera cannot be reproduced by any other method. JMHO

[Doug]

I still use the 1958 Leica M2 I got when it was 9-10 years old, and the Summicron that I got with it. But it has a 50 Sonnar-ZM on it at the moment... :)

[Creagerj]

Got a bush pressman model D, but I have hardly used it.

[julianphotoart]

It's a pre-war Super Ikonta "C". It's the only camera I have that's 6x9 so when I want to play with the biggest negatives/transparencies I can, and the lighting is friendly, I use it.

[Avotius]

Here is a picture of my oldest camera:

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/201/471343379_d03e49d51d_o.jpg

A Kodak 3A pocket camera from 1907 complete with leather case and strap. The camera is in very much excellent condition and still has that "new bellows smell". Here are some photos I took with it recently (this year) on 120 film

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/191/482726040_69560e0002_o.jpg

Ilford Delta 100 with red filter

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/160/426717470_1001593980_o.jpg

Kodak 100vs

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/164/426716983_26b5469333_o.jpg

Ilford Delta 100 with red filter

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/172/409750350_c8966c5191_o.jpg

Fuji Reala

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/172/409749829_3c503cb444_o.jpg

Fuji Reala (cropped)

[varjag]

Aviotus, amazing shots :) The gothic script on brilliant finder is surprising.

My oldest is wartime Contax II. It was my main camera for about a year.

[doitashimash1te]

Avotius I am really impressed by your post. Thank you for sharing!

[tedwhite]

How old is this one?

[DannL]

I suppose this is the oldest currently in use. Though, I do have a Rexoette box camera that saw action last week. This camera is by far my faivert:D. I fits like a glove. Found it for less than $50 (USD) at a local community thrift store. Adjusted the curtain roller tensions and glued down some lifting vulcanite. All is well.
http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=43398&d=1175800665

[Marc-A.]

Fed 1b (the toliet seat model) '36 I think.

FED-1 from 1935 Jay

Fed 1 from 1935 and 1936. Guys, I'm impressed. Do you have pictures of those cameras?

Avotius, I love your Kodak 3A. And what great pictures you made!!

The oldest camera I own and use (I've shot with it today) is a Leica III from 1935. Wonderful camera, more accurate than my M2, so easy to focus with. I gave it a Color Skopar to play with.

http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=45395&d=1179911092

[Kent]

Wonderful pics, guys!

@Wayne: Gosh, these cams are old! Great that you still use them!
@Avotius: What a nice camera! (And fantastic photos!)

My oldest camera is a Dehel - Demaria Fréres (4,5x6) from 1941 with a Demaria 4.5/75 lens:

http://www.nicanet.de/mf/dehel.jpg

And it still works well!

[Xmas]

It is a fed 1b I'll take a picture and post tomorrow, I'm suprised Jay does not have an earlier, my serial is 55xxx, Jay will tell me I'm wrong on date? It does need a hood.

Finding a photo it took involves loading it with film and taking film to mini lab, I know the last film it had was FP4 but the cassette is in a bag of other FP4s... the film was removed on the 12th May.

I like your III

Noel

[oftheherd]

Avotius - thanks so much for sharing. What great photos!

[Ash]

I use my old cameras. My oldest is probably 1910's??? The Korona-View 4x5. I'm not sure exactly how old it is, maybe even 1920's???

If that's not the oldest, possible my oldest usable one is the Zeiss Nettar 515, or the Leica Standard, 1930's cameras.

[TimBonzi]

I got my old camera from a really old relative named Fred...

45473

[Wayno]

Here is a picture of my oldest camera...

Fantastic images from that old Kodak which is in amazing condition!

I've got an original Rolleiflex (circa 1928) which is probably my oldest camera. Will put some film through it soon, when I'm finished putting it back together...

[BILLC]

The oldest camera that I use is a Kodak 3A with 120 film but my pictures don't look like Avotius'. He has inspired me to put some color film through it and to take more pictures, those are great. I also have a #4 cartridge Kodak from before '07 but have not found a sheet film back or current 104 film, it does work though. Most of what I use is from the 30's to the 50's 645 folders or FSU 35mm.
Bill

[Avotius]

The oldest camera that I use is a Kodak 3A with 120 film but my pictures don't look like Avotius'. He has inspired me to put some color film through it and to take more pictures, those are great. I also have a #4 cartridge Kodak from before '07 but have not found a sheet film back or current 104 film, it does work though. Most of what I use is from the 30's to the 50's 645 folders or FSU 35mm.
Bill

thanks a lot, the old kodak still has some life in it yet, just be sure to use a red filter or a polarizer (I just held it in front of the lens).

One question though, I never thought to accessorize my kodak, are you telling me that somewhere out there I might be able to find a back for this camera that would allow me to shoot 4x5 sheet film? if that is so I think im going to have a heart attack, I have been trying to figure out how to get this thing to do that for a while now

[landsknechte]

The oldest camera that I have is probably my Kodak Vest Pocket Autographic, which had to have been made in 1915. (The original owner bought it for the Pan-Pacific Exposition in San Francisco.) I have a few Brownies that could be as old as 1901, but as "new" as the 1930s. The oldest one I've actually used is a 1931 Voigtländer Jubilar.

[P C Headland]

My oldest is a Zeh Zeca from 1937. It's a folder that uses 9x12cm sheet film or glass plates. I've got some old plates too which I will get round to shooting once my Paterson Orbital arrives.

I shot these the other week with it (Efke 25)

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/198/495944593_cc5796344b.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/202/495944597_929d5c39dd.jpg

[Spyderman]

My oldest isn't anything special - a Zorki 1 from 1955 and I use it sometimes. For the fun of using a bottom loader...

my oldest lens is a Sonnar 5cm 1:2 from 1936. I haven't used it yet, but when I finish CLA on my Kiev I'm planning to try it...

[KameraKev]

My main user is a Fed 2 from the late 50's. My oldest slr is a Petri Flex V from 1961 which has a really sharp lens. My oldest view camera is an Argus A from the late 1930's, I've put a couple rolls through it, it has an okay lens, but very flare prone.

[kleinkamera]

Agfa Box from around 1935. Works. Nice pics, but a bit to archaic.

[Ducky]

An inactive Argus AF with a light leak around the lens. Useable but it sits on a shelf. Sometime in the late 30's, like me.

[BILLC]

Avotius,
The 4x5 back is for the #4 Cartridge Kodak not the 3A Kodak. I do have a sheet film back for the 3A that Kodak made. It uses 3 1/4 by 5 1/4 sheet film in special holders. You insert a frame with a ground glass to focus and then replace it with a holder. The focus scale on some 3A's flips up to give the focus for the sheet film back. I don't use sheet film much but have cut down 4x5 to 3 1/4 x 5, it is so much easier to use 120 roll film. Did you build a new film gate for your camera? Once again nice work.
Bill

[Terao]

Avotius, is that the standard aspect ratio for that camera or are those shots cropped? Fabulous shots...
My oldest camera is the Agfa Ambi Silette, doesn't get used much but will do now that its going to be my only film camera...

[Terao]

I wonder if the new owner will be using this:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/6695739.stm

Just a mere $800,000...

[Kent]

"...was found in a German attic..."

Incredible! Some guys have all the luck...

[mcgrattan]

The two oldest cameras I actually use are my Zorki 2c and the Kodak Retina IIc I bought recently. The Zorki is from '56 and I'm pretty sure the Retina is also. Both have had a lot of use in the past few weeks. In fact, they are the cameras I've used most in the past few months. I also have a Moskva-2 which is possibly a little older -- from the early 50s. I use that occasionally.

I have one older camera, a Zeiss Box Tengor 54 which, I believe, is a very early version. From around 1929. I've used it a couple of times. The pictures were surprisingly OK. In fact one of the few photos I've taken that my wife chose to frame was taken on this.

I haven't used it in a long time, though. So it'll probably get sold as I don't really keep cameras I don't use.

[Avotius]

Avotius, is that the standard aspect ratio for that camera or are those shots cropped? Fabulous shots...


Thanks a lot, I altered this camera to shoot 120 film so now the thing spits out a negative that is 6cmx15cm. So all the shots are not cropped besides the one shot of the guy which I cropped, then printed to 30 inches and looks great for a 100 year old camera if you ask me!

[Avotius]

Avotius,
The 4x5 back is for the #4 Cartridge Kodak not the 3A Kodak. I do have a sheet film back for the 3A that Kodak made. It uses 3 1/4 by 5 1/4 sheet film in special holders. You insert a frame with a ground glass to focus and then replace it with a holder. The focus scale on some 3A's flips up to give the focus for the sheet film back. I don't use sheet film much but have cut down 4x5 to 3 1/4 x 5, it is so much easier to use 120 roll film. Did you build a new film gate for your camera? Once again nice work.
Bill


very interesting, I need to look more into this it looks like. I always wondered what the flip up thing was for on the focus thing, seemed kind of weird to have it on their twice, but now I know. Now if I could fix the latch so it would stay closed without a rubber band.

I did the stupid lazy thing and just cut the tops off two ilford film cans to hold the 120 film in place. Not quite flat, not quite perfect but gets the job done as it would seem. Plus I have been working on taking the lens off another junker 3a and am going to meld it to my canon 20D. Test shots so far have shown the lens to be extremely sharp for something so old.

[John Robertson]

While not the oldest in my posession, thats an ancient Kodak Hawkeye.
This camera was bought new as a present from my father in 1954, it was my only regular camera for 10years, then only used occasionally after I got my Fed2 in 1964. It still takes great pictures, but they are on 127 film, so I can't scan them in my film scanner. four speed metal focal plane shutter, and a Beck Anastigmat lens. So I've had this camera for 53 years:)

[Kent]

Hi, John!

I guess I would buy a cam from you any time. You seem to treat your gear well. This Hawkeye looks mint, even after 53 years!

[vha]

How old is this one?

Would like to have one of those . . seems to be a perfect music festival camera ;)
Have you worn it down like that yourself of was it a "user" when you bought it ?

vha

[tedwhite]

It belongs to a close friend, photographer Matt Cook, who apparently bought it new and just used it, pretty much on a daily basis. He's had it CLA'd a few times but obviously never cared about the camera's appearance. He loans it to me whenever I want to shoot with that great Super Angulon lens.

[lynn]

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/209/517821088_c6c6a8729f_o.jpg


This Balda Baldax is the most venerable camera in my collection: early 1930's, as far as I can deduce. I have fed it one roll of film, but, candidly, I need considerably more practise - or a tape measure - using zone focus. :(

Runners-up, age-wise, are a lovely Agfa Sychro Box generously given to me by G'man and Yankee Doll (I posted the results on RFF once-upon-a-time) and a Coronet 4-4, also a gift, from a favourite friend. I intend to use the latter for some sprocket hole images, and have longed to do so since I read this article:

http://filmwasters.com/blog/archives/date/2006/08

Oh...and the many-faceted filmwasters site is definitely one to bookmark!

[John Robertson]

Hi, John!

I guess I would buy a cam from you any time. You seem to treat your gear well. This Hawkeye looks mint, even after 53 years!
Sorry my bad grammar, The Haweye is another camera this is the 1954 Purma Plus a British ( well made in Wales actually) camera. I found out later it cost my father three weeks wages, a hell of a lot of money at the time. Also my father died four years later so it has been very well looked after as it has great sentimental value. I would never sell it!!! I also have the original box, instructions, Focal guide, and advertising flyer, and receipt. When not being used it sits in a cabinet in my den. I also have the original lens hood and filter set in a little leather case. It started me on the long downward spiral into photography. At school I bacame the official class photographer, and made enough money from this to keep me in films chemicals and paper. Happy uncomplicated days.:)

[Steve Bellayr]

Waiting on an Agfa Karat IV circa 1954-7 rangefinder with Solagon F2.0 lens. That should be my oldest.

[Kent]

Waiting on an Agfa Karat IV circa 1954-7 rangefinder with Solagon F2.0 lens. That should be my oldest. Very nice lens, the Solagon 2/50! My Super Silette is equipped with it, too.

[Kent]

Sorry my bad grammar, The Haweye is another camera this is the 1954 Purma Plus a British ( well made in Wales actually) camera. I found out later it cost my father three weeks wages, a hell of a lot of money at the time. Also my father died four years later so it has been very well looked after as it has great sentimental value. I would never sell it!!! I also have the original box, instructions, Focal guide, and advertising flyer, and receipt. When not being used it sits in a cabinet in my den. I also have the original lens hood and filter set in a little leather case. It started me on the long downward spiral into photography. At school I bacame the official class photographer, and made enough money from this to keep me in films chemicals and paper. Happy uncomplicated days.:)
Anyway, it looks mint! I like your story about your father's cam.
My father gave me an old Franka scale focus cam which was his first "real" cam. I would never sell this one, either!

[David Goldfarb]

Here I am using my 11x14" American Optical from some time around 1890--

http://www.usatoday.com/tech/products/2006-05-10-photography-survival_x.htm

My oldest lens is a Voigtlander Petzval that's probably from the 1860s or so. I posted some photos of the lens and with the lens in this thread over on APUG--

http://www.apug.org/forums/forum44/23132-saw-jim-gallis-images-now-need-petzval-type-lens-3.html#post245412

[Roger Hicks]

Gandolfi Universal 12x15 inch. Not clear how old it is. Pre-Great War almost certainly; Eddie at Gandolfi reckons possibly 1890s. The three matched book-form plate-holders have reducing frames for 10x12, 8x10 and whole plate, and there's a panorama adapter for halving these frames. 6x15 inch, anyone?

A bugger to hand hold, though. The camera and holders, in the case, weigh 65lb/just short of 30 kg.

Cheers,

R.

[manfromh]

I'm guessing that my oldest is an Agfa Billy Compur, though im not sure when it was made. And yes I use it

[tedwhite]

David G. When I go to the APUG site I'm blocked because I'm not a member. Is there any way you can show us the lens?

[David Goldfarb]

David G. When I go to the APUG site I'm blocked because I'm not a member. Is there any way you can show us the lens?

Sure, here's an 8x10" Polaroid made with the Petzval.

[David Goldfarb]

And here's a photo of the lens itself mounted on an 8x10" Sinar P with flange and waterhouse stops made by SK Grimes.

[foto_fool]

My IIIf is from 1952 but the Summar is from 1937. Also have what may be a real Zeiss Jena Sonanr form 1944. Cool.

- John

[David Murphy]

Like a lot of you my oldest, and probably favorite camera is my Leica III. The Leica III doesn't know it's old -- takes pictures as good or better than any modern film camera with the right lens.

[pvdhaar]

I recently got my paws on an early 60's Voigtlander Vito CLR. That's the oldest one right now, but I've got it completely disassembled as the shutter's so lazy it needs a thorough cleaning.

Perhaps I'll use it when it's put back together, but it'll never be as satisfying to use as my second oldest camera, a 1970 M4..

[Captain Bedworthy]

That's the oldest I regularly use, though my Certo Certotrop folding bed camera sees service when I need a 2X3 view camera with interchangeable lenses. The Weltini was a wartime make, and the Certo is pre-war. When it was new the Weltini cost 150 reichsmarks, which I did some acrobatic digging into and it comes to over 500 modern dollars. I shot with the weltini this afternoon. It has a nice design, is as small as a retina, and has the same lens (xenar 2.0).

[FallisPhoto]

What's the oldest camera you've got?

Anthony and Scovill (which later became Ansco) #4 Vest Pocket Camera, made in 1894. The bellows fell apart on it and needs replacing. I'm still looking for a replacement, but I think I'm going to have to build my own. Frankly, the camera is a train wreck, and I am going to have to practically rebuild it before I can do much of anything with it.

It used some weird kind of film that shot about a 4x5 frame, but in rollfilm format. I think I'm going to have to make a set of film sleeves for 4x5 film in order to use it. I don't want to spend $40 per roll geting aerial photography film cut up and custom spooled. Alternatively, I could cut a bit out of the back (it is made of wood) and install a simple spring clamp for 4x5 film holders (kind of like what is on the earlier Speed Graphics).

The most interesting thing about the camera is the aperture control; it goes from f/8 to f/256. I'm very interested in seeing what that f/256 is like, once I have it all put back together. I expect it is probably going to be a bit blurry. If a camera doesn't focus as well at f/22, I can only guess that f/256 would be worse. I'm curious though, and want to see for myself.

[hitmanh]

My current oldest is a Contax II from 36/37 that's rather a nice user... I do have an older Kodak roll film folder from 1922 that I keep meaning to try...

[Al Patterson]

My oldest rangefinder is an Argus C4 I recently acquired from the auction site. It needs work before I can use it.

My oldest camera came from my grandfather, and is a 1920's vintage folding Kodak camera that uses 3 by 5 inch negative film. The last time Kodak made the film was in 1970 or so, and I did use that film until sometime in the early 1980.

The oldest usable camera I have is probably the Canon QL17.

[Mr_Flibble]

The oldest camera I have is Kodak No.2 Box Brownie (probably from the early 1930s).
I carry it with me to WW1-living History Events and some WW2 events.

The oldest RF I haves is probalby my Kodak Retina II (model 142), otherwise it's my Leica IIIa from 1937 together with it's 90mm Elmar lens (also 1937)

I try to use all my cameras, but some just aren't as inviting to use often; I dislike using the Argus C3, eventhough it takes rather good quality pictures.

[camera.bear]

The oldest camera I'm using on a regular basis is my Hi-Matic 9 introduced by Minolta in 1966. I love the solid feel of the camera and the lens has proven to be very good.

http://www.flickr.com/search/?q=hi%20matic%209&w=88687274%40N00

[Seele]

Oldest piece of photographic equipment I use: Petzval type lens by Andrew Ross, with Waterhouse stop; this combination dates it to 1858 or 1859.

[JohnTF]

I have a very old wood folding camera, plus a couple of wood field cameras that may see some use if I load up some 8x10, but I did shoot some XP2 in my Leica Ia, and was pleasantly surprised that everything seemed up to snuff.

If I find another cartridge, I may shoot some with my wood Ansco Memo.

John

[JohnL]

Not specially old, my oldest is a Canon 7S which I've been using until very recently for the 50/0.95 lens. However, it's not easy to focus with that lens, as the RF patch is a bit dim, plus I tend to use it in near darkenss and wide open, so I've been thinking of converting the lens to M-mount and selling the 7S.

[Mr_Flibble]

I've recently purchased a beat up Kodak Autographic Vest Pocket.
I've sealed all the pinholes (hopefully), cleaned the lenses and shutter,
cleaned the viewfinder.

And last week 2 rolls of Efke R100 127 film arrived.
Now all that remains is waiting for an opportunity to test the camera.

[Michael Markey]

Kodak Hawkette 2. It was my late fathers and I have two books full of photographs from it taken by him in India and Burma during WW 2. People,places and even some action shots. I have loaded it with 120 and have taken a few shots but am unsure as to which aperture it is using. It has three. These are set by puling or pushing a lever . The issue being that there is no indication on that lever as to which aperture is being chosen. A bit of trial and error should sort it out though.It was designed to use ASA 50.

[Arvay]

1937 Leica III a

[projectbluebird]

I have a "Kodak 35 RF" from the mid 40's. I've also got an Argus C3, which may or may not be older. I don't use either very often; the brick has a broken rangefinder, and the 35 RF tends to eat film.

The oldest camera I regularly use is my IIIf BD from 1951, usually with a summitar from 1950. The oldest lens I've got is a serenar 85/2 from 1949.

[Ronald_H]

My whole 'fleet' of semi-rejects is used ;)

My oldest camera is however very young in this company, a 1963 Leica M2 with a DR Summicron from the same year.

[helenhill]

my 'Vintage' Selection ...a 1962 M2 and still Young & Growing Strong :D

Best-H

[sanmich]

1933 black III.

[aperture64]

1958 Rolleiflex 3.5F with Xenotar lens. Images that come out of it are so nice. I bought it off the Bay for under $200. A camera store in Ohio had it in their storage room for 30+ years. Original box, manual, case, hood, filters, and a thank you note from Rollei offering a free roll of film.

[bastian a.]

Leica II, black paint/nickel, 1932

[marke]

Well, the oldest camera I own is a 1912 Conley 4x5 (Model XVIa). Although I haven't used it yet, I believe I will be using it soon. The shutter is semi-functional (not all speeds) and the bellows have a couple small spots that need sealing.

I found this last month while my wife and I were in an antique store. She saw I wanted it and bought it for me for a first wedding anniversary gift. :D

http://www.pbase.com/marke/image/109090851/original.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/marke/image/109090850/original.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/marke/image/109090854/original.jpg

[marke]

The oldest camera that I actually use is a 1955 Leica IIIf RD, with early 1946 50/f2 Summitar lens.

http://www.pbase.com/marke/image/86542693/original.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/marke/image/86542695/original.jpg


Here are a couple recent pictures taken of our greyhound with that camera, loaded with Tri-X.

http://www.pbase.com/marke/image/110163701/original.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/marke/image/110118507/original.jpg

[johnastovall]

1937 NKVD FED (http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=71091), currently having shutter replaced.

[tedwhite]

The oldest camera that I use is a 1956 Rolleiflex 2.8E. It's had a CLA by Ross Yerkes in Los Angeles a couple of years ago and the camera looks and works as if it were new. I also installed a Maxwell screen installed by Ross. It's much brighter than the original.

The camera was purchased new by Herbert (Bert) Burrows, a former CIA agent and a good friend. He either bought it in Germany or Singapore, I forget which, and I can't ask him as he passed away a few years ago. His widow knew I admired the camera and also that I would not only care for it but also use it, so she offered to sell it to me. I only had $125 with me at the time. She said that was good enough.

The second oldest camera that I use frequently is a well-worn black 1969 Asahi Pentax Spotmatic that I purchased new from Jack Stroebel at St. Louis Camera in 1971.

[aaron.tam]

Just in: a Leica M2 from 1959!

[pesphoto]

my oldest camera is the pentax k1000 i learned on at 12 years of age. I still have it at 42 years of age. It works, I havent used it in years. I should.

[rogue_designer]

I checked yes... but then realized I was wrong.

I have my grandfathers mid 20's welta - which used an odd plate size. I don't use that one.

[le vrai rdu]

my oldest one is a zorki 4 from 1968

[Pompiere]

My oldest camera is a No. 3A Folding Brownie from about 1915. I haven't tried to modify it for 120 film, so I don't use it. I also have a No. 2 Box Brownie from the same era that I have used. The oldest cameras that get regular use are 1960's and 70's fixed lens rangefinders: Petri 7s, Yashica GSN, Olympus ECR.

[tedwhite]

Pesphoto: Use that darned Pentax K1000. Those cameras love to be used, even slapped about. Also, love the Moriyama quote. Are any of his pictures available?

[Druid]

Yes, but my oldest is an F3, so it's pretty modern compared to some of the stuff in this thread.

[Wiyum]

My grandfather's old camera was recently found and given to me. It is a Kodak No. 2A, which likely dates from the late 20s. It has 4 shutter settings: T (press to open, press to close), B (open while pressed), "25" and "50." It takes 116 film, has a "ruby window" on the back, and features an iris (both the iris and shutter are in front of the glass element, which I assume is a single element) with settings of 1, 2, 3, and 4, corresponding to no system I know of, but which appear to be in roughly 1 stop ratios to one another. The rotating, plus-shaped waistlevel finder is fogged almost beyond visibility. The bellows lock into preset 8 ft or 100 ft focusing positions.

I've seen pictures of my father as a young man, taken 25 years into the camera's life, and that those pictures exist at all is, to me, a testament to my grandfather's skill as a photographer. With no meter (and I know he carried none), difficult orthochromatic films of the day, and arcane (to say the least) means of controlling exposure, I figure a person had to be serious about learning his stuff to use the thing. The difficulty of adapting it for use today has prevented me from doing so, so I keep it on display on a shelf as a tribute to my grandfather.

[buzzardkid]

Leica III from 1935 with Summar 50mm f2.0 from 1937
FED S with FED 50mm f2.0 from 1941

Both in use on a regular basis, the FED S and lens have recently been CLA'd by Yuri at Fedka.com. Smooth as butter, no telling these babies are 70 years old.

[pesphoto]

Pesphoto: Use that darned Pentax K1000. Those cameras love to be used, even slapped about. Also, love the Moriyama quote. Are any of his pictures available?

You are right Ted, I should take it out and use it again.

Edit: SO hehe...I just went to look at my "K1000" , and this is will tell you how long it's been, turns out it is actually a Pentax Spotmatic 500. I just ordered a battery for it as it used to take mercuy's. SO i got one of these (http://www.adorama.com/BYPX400W.html?searchinfo=WEIN+Cell+PX400) from Adorama.


http://www.moriyamadaido.com/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wp8pGumbFfQ&feature=related

[chachi]

my oldest is an ICA Nixe, 1927-34 is the production dates on these. of course 122 isn't commonly available, so i load it with paper and try to snap a picture with it everyday. in practice, it comes out to maybe three a week.

[Yammerman]

Using my 1936 Rolleicord I in the One Camera One Lens challenge. Didn't use it for ages because I had trouble winding the film on correctly but now I understand the routine its great.

[Brian Sweeney]

I use my oldest 35mm camera, a Black Leica III. Had Youxin Ye CLA it, use a Canon 35/2.8 on it with an external finder.

[kitaanat]

Kodak Retina IIIC (type 028) 1957
Fully working and I'm currently using it everyday.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3289/3493913304_50df0e5a47.jpg

[januaryman]

I have a Fed 2 b Type 1, which I think may be older than my Leica M2, about 1957 or 58.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/251/453133399_a8e29d4ea8.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/januaryman/453133399/)

[Bill Harrison]

Another Leica lllF BD with '38 Summar. Karona 5x7 & just received Century Universal 8x10 soon to be up and running... The Leica daily, Karona weekly.

[newspaperguy]

A Zorki 1d with a CV 25mm Snapshot Skopar and finder, and a Kiev IIa regularly, and occasionally, a Retina 1a and my original Pen FT. Couple of old Rolleicords that need re-assembly - if I ever get around to cutting new mirrors - plus there's a working Kodak Reflex II, (with it's armored leather case... really) and a Kodak 35 RF that haven't been used in years. Probably more stashed away somwhere... (Think Pentax, Konica, Oly) but now I'm afraid to look.

[MRohlfing]

My oldest is a Leica IIf.

According to the serial number it was born in the same month as me and myself, Feb. 1954 (wow, isn't that an old lady!!)

The old lady is a little slow, 2/3 of a stop across the whole range of shutter speeds. If I take account of that, she delivers very well exposed slides.

[jb17kx]

My oldest camera is a 1956 Voigtlander Vito II, formerly my great-grandfathers.

I ended up with all the boxes and manuals as well. I see from the bottom of the box that he paid twenty-one pounds and ten shillings (Australian) for it.

I still use it too. Runs like a dream, yet it's never seen a repair bench.

[eia41]

Leica II, 1932 vintage, with nickel Elmar 50/3.5 of the same era.

[wolves3012]

My oldest is a FED 1 from 1939 which I've just put new curtains and half-mirror into. Works very nicely! I also have a 1946/7 Leica which sees regular use and several 50s FSUs which I use frequently. I use the older ones more than the newer ones...

[mh2000]

I'm pretty sure my VPK (~1920) is my oldest and it has film in it right now!

:)

[Melvin]

Leica II, 1932 vintage, with nickel Elmar 50/3.5 of the same era.

Same here, though I'm more fond of the camera than the Elmar.

[BTMarcais]

Oldes I use is a 1930's Zeiss Super ikonta A folder. An absolute blast to use, sharp (uncoated) tessar, 645 that really does fit in my pocket.

Interesting that it's old enough that there were no numbers for 6x4.5 spacing on the backing paper for 120 at the time, so it has TWO red windows spaced apart on the back, both lining up w/ the 6x9 numbers. You put #1 in the first window, shoot, advance #1 to the second window, shoot, advance #2 to the first window, etc... through all 16 frames.

-Brian

[JeffGreene]

My oldest camera is a Nagel Vollenda (1928). Haven't used it in over 30 years. http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd222/jgreenepa/Nagel.jpg

[MichaelM7]

I would use my 1931 Agfa Billy Optima, if I only could get hold of some film.... It seems, that it is a special deluxe version of the ordinary 6x9 Agfa Billy Folder and takes photos with 7.5 x 10.5cm on special Agfa "Optima" film that was discontinued already before WWII....
Nevertheless, it works very well.

[summar]

1931 RB Graflex 3x4 SLR, fully functional. With the 6-3/8 inch lens and a 6x9 rollfilm holder (equivalent to about 75-80mm in 35mm) it's a wonderful portrait camera.

[Darkhorse]

http://formerairline.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/pcoket.jpg
i have a no 1a pocket kodak. i've actually used the thing, albeit awkwardly since they don't make 118 film anymore and i had to shoehorn 120 in there. but it did actually work!

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3587/3302704716_071f579e18_o.jpg

[Sonny Boy Havidson]

It seems that my oldest camera is a Kodak box which I sometimes use for experimental work. My oldest serious camera is my Leica III F so be sure I use it, the second one is my FOCA (that I use whereas shutter need servicing) or my Isolette (that I currently try to repair).

[Michael P.]

1965 Yashica Mat, in perfect working order.

[sfj]

Probably my oldest is a Kodak Model 0 Graphic from the 1920s - focal plane shutter, elegant knobs, nice to hold.

[Luddite Frank]

Flat-out oldest Camera ?

Toss-up between:

Rochester View 8x10 (c. 1895), s/n: 2912, with "Special Rapid Rectilinear 8 x 10" lens, # 4373, from "Ralph J. Golsen, Chicago", in a Bausch & Lomb "Unicum" pneumatic shutter, T, B, 1 , 1/2, 1/5, 1/25, 1/50, 1/100; f: 8, 16, 32, 64, 128 US (Uniform System; iris). Has homebrew 8x10 > 4x5 reducing back; bellows have a lot of gaffers' tape (?) on the insides of the folds... have shot a few sheets of 4x5 with it... has potential; am hoping to find correct 8x10 back for it some day.

or

Rochester Optical "Pony Premo SR", 4x5 self-casing... little jewel of a camera, about the size of a Graphic 2x3 when folded-up; also Unicum Pneumatic shutter, US stop system (iris). Has lovely purple bellows. Takes modern 4x5 holders, came with 8 original plate holders, two printing frames, couple of homemade brass oval printing masks, about 50 4x5 carboard mounts, and a crumbling instruction book... this was someone's "kit" from the 1890's.
Have shot a few sheets in this one too; a bit fiddly to use (film-holder tends to pull-out of the camera when you pull the dark-slide ! )... has a reflex finder on the bed, but also ground-glass focusing screen if you want to be a "purist".
Front rise/fall, L/R shift, rear tilt & pan... c. 1895

and/or

Rochester Optical "Rev Back Premo" 5x7 self-casing, s/n: 64156; has double-extension bellows , front rise/fall, rear tilt & pan. The "Revolving Back" feature actually means the spring back can be unclipped and rotated 90 deg to give choice of horizontal or vertical format; not a true "revolving back" like you'd find a on a modern mono-rail. Usual B&L Unicum pneumatic shutter, US stops (iris), "triple convertible lens": choice of using only front or rear cell, or both, to achieve desired focal length.
This one needs some shutter work and have to check integrity of bellows, but I have some Ilford FP-4 5x7 film in the fridge, and some modern Riteway holders, so I'm hoping to try it out soon.


Oldest 35mm:

Leica D (black II), s/n 77xxx, nickel Elmar 50, with "11 o'clock inifinity lock".
Very nice cosmetics, shutter drags when the temp goes below 50 deg F, so it needs a CLA.

Oldest functional 35mm:

Leica F (black III), s/n 117xxx, Summar 50. PC sync added (back , right of VF eyepiece). Body seems to work well; cosmetics too nice for me to want to add wear, but it's taken some very nice pics.

Oldest user RF 35mm:

Leica III (chrome), s/n 134xxx; ugly cosmetics, peeling chrome, but works very well. This is my "everyday Barnack", in the bag are: Summicron 50mm w/ Hoya UV filter, Canon f 1.8 35mm, Elmar 90 (1950's), Hektor 135 (black, pre-war, coated); Summicron "barndoor" shade, round shade for long lenses, 36mm clamp-on to E-39 filter adapter, my Gossen Luna-Six meter, cuticle scissors for trimming leader, cable release, 39mm Hoya polarizer, a Nikon Varifocal accy finder (that "accidentally" came with a Super Rokkor 135 lens; didn't pay attention to the accy finder when chasing that lens on e-bay...), and a brown Eveready case. All in a meduium size Tammac DSLR bag.

Oldest SLR (sorry!):

Exakta VX ( US Varex), c 1955, with 50mm CZJ f 3 Tessar, 135 Schacht Travegon, 35mm Soligor pre-set.; prism finder, although I do have the waist-level finder, and the "rare" penta-prism w/ meter (not working). Was my daily user; still works.

User SLR:

Pentax SP-500 (Asahi), 1960 (?)

Oldest MF RF:

Super-Ikonta 6x9; pre-war, nickle; uncoated 4.5 Tessar in Compur.
missing 6x6 mask, somebody gave it a black paint-job; needs CLA, so it's going to Jurgen soon.

User MF RF:

Super Ikonta 645, postwar, coated 3.5 Tessar in Compur-Rapid. Plating pitted, but it works well.


and then there's all the other "junk"...:D

On the "fix list":

Contax IIIa BD (CLA), Leica IIIf (CLA, new curtains), Rolleiflex, Ciroflex, Ikonta 531, Nikon S (CLA, curtains); and others... hope I get them done before film goes away !


Happy shooting ! :cool:

Luddite Frank

[literiter]

I like Super Ikontas so I have a 1939 "C" 6x9 and a "B" from about 1950 or so. I use these a fair amount because of the size of the negative relative to the weight and portability of the camera.

Then there is the Hasselblad SWC from 1959 and I use this thing a lot. And if I had to trim my equipment down to one camera, and had to choose, I think this would be the one camera I'd keep. I may indeed be a little odd.

[JustPlainBill]

Hi,
My oldest camera is No 2A Folding Autographic Brownie. Its patent dates are 1910 and 1913. I've never attempted to photograph with it. My next oldest camera is a Retina II from the 1930s or 1940s. Next comes the sainted Rolleiflex MX which I used to put more than fifty pictures in my college yearbook forty-eight years ago and a Linhof Super Technika III which I use as a field camera - don't know which is older. My button rewind Leica M2 is a few years younger and is used frequently.
Cheers,
JustPlainBill

[bobkonos]

My oldest is a 1936 Leica II, in black paint, with 5cm f3.5 Elmar. Original to my wife's father who purchased it new in 1936. A gem, a joy to hold and use, and a link to her past.

[ray*j*gun]

Leica IIIa, 1936.

[benmacphoto]

My oldest camera currently is a IIIc from 1946 and I still use it often.

[dave61]

Fully functional, but retired from service: 1904 3+1/4x4+1/4in. Auto Graflex. Made in NYC by Folmer and Schwing, before they moved to Rochester to join EKCo.

My primary camera: 1930 3x4 Series D Graflex. Interchangeable lensboards. Prime lens=16.5cm/f-2.9 Erneman 'Ernon'. 'Graflex 23' 120 rollfim back. Original condition.

Oldest RF camera in use: 1937 Minolta Auto Semi. 16 on 120. My 'walk around' camera. Works good, unrestored, sees frequent use.

I don't use modern cameras, no challenge in them. I find lenses made after 1980 lack individual character. It's become too easy to click + drag to get the results we want. Are we forgetting how to use filters and manipulate development to tweak contrast & tonal range?

If I had to go out each day and bring back photos to feed my family, I'm sure I'd go digi. Fortunately I don't have to, if I did, we'd starve.;)

[Chriscrawfordphoto]

My oldest is a Rolleiflex Automat from 1938. Uncoated 75mm f3.5 Tessar lens, takes incredible photos. It needs a CLA, thee shutter speeds are off but it does work. I should get it out and use it sometime. It was my very first medium format camera. Bought it for $65 from an old man who had a couple of old Rolleis and some misc. Rollei accessories on a small tale at a photo swap meet my dad took me to in Cincinnati, Ohio when I was 15 yrs old.

http://www.chriscrawfordphoto.com/fine_art/portfolio/people/images/pics/sarah2.jpg

http://www.chriscrawfordphoto.com/fine_art/portfolio/people/images/pics/huh.jpg

http://www.chriscrawfordphoto.com/fine_art/portfolio/people/images/pics/lois.jpg

Loved it for portraits.

[jarski]

Same here, though I'm more fond of the camera than the Elmar.

and here too :D 1932 Leica II is quite common, according to Leica Pocket Book 21970 black ones were made that year (0 chrome).

mine got CLA last year, works now like a clock, and is only Barnack I have and use.

here is photo with LTM modified Sonnar, had this combo at motorbike holiday this summer.

http://rangefinderforum.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=72300&stc=1&d=1250031089

[robinsonphotography]

Mine is my 1959 M2....not as old as many of the ones you guys have, but I use it almost daily!

[f16sunshine]

Plaubel Makina II. I think it's a '37. Fun camera and interesting images at times.
Not the best IQ technically speaking from any if the three lenses. It's in for a CLA now.

[Chris101]

Do you actually use your oldest camera?

Yup, but not very often. It's a Grover 5x7 monorail made by Burke and James in the 1920s. And a 40s Wollensack lens. Film in 5x7 format is both expensive and rare, but readily available, so I do use it from time to time, mostly to exercise the shutter. ;)

I hate tripod shooting, so I haven't made a decent shot with this camera for a couple of years, but it's a beaut:

http://homepage.mac.com/cheilman1/images/photos/compositioncontest/viewcamera2.jpg

[nikon_sam]

I think this is the oldest one for me...

No. 1-A Pocket Kodak...Latest date stamped inside is 1921...it uses A116 film so I've never used it...It's in Excellent condition and came with the case...the only part missing is the Stylus...

[Ezzie]

My two oldest cameras are the Welta Weltix, have no idea exactly how old it is, but somewhere between 1935 and 1950. And a Genos Rapid, also age unknown. I think both will work. The former has a very nice tan leather case, with purple velvet lining, and two accessories pouches (in the same leather) on the strap. One for the B + W filter (UV possibly), and the Sixon light meter.

[Mablo]

I'm concentrating on cameras built in the late fifties until the late seventies which I think is the time frame when camera companies were still competing with quality and workmanship.

[goodtimes]

II F 1932. I use it with no problem and more than my M8

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3205/3068143578_81f6e03c42.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/8487951@N05/3068143578/)
1932 Lecia Black Paint (http://www.flickr.com/photos/8487951@N05/3068143578/) by CustomM8 (http://www.flickr.com/people/8487951@N05/), on Flickr

[jwnash1]

My first camera was a Pentax Spotmatic w/40mm f1.4 Super Takumar. Unfortunately, it is no longer operational and sits on a shelf. My oldest camera is a Fed2 which sees quite a bit of use.

[JeffGreene]

The oldest camera I have is also the first camera I ever used. It is a Nagel Vollenda circa 1928. I still have it, but haven't used it in about 25 years. Here it is:

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd222/jgreenepa/Nagel.jpg

[RichL]

I use a 1935 vintage Foth Derby a 1934 Duo 620 and (as of tomorrow) an Ansco Memo circa 1927. The camera that is always in my pocket is a Minox III manufactured in 1955.

[ronnies]

My oldest is a Kodak Six-20 Model B that I think comes from the later 30s. I have used it but can't be bothered respooling 120 for it when I can use the 120 in my Rolleicord Va (my second oldest camera).

Ronnie

[Muggins]

A grand thread to resurrect - apparently I've already voted on the poll, but I can't see a post by me, so I'll wade in anyway.

This is my oldest camera - not the oldest or prettiest here, but it celebrates its centenary just about now, and I plan to burn some film in it too.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/gray1720/3555578655/

Here's a shot from it.

http://i726.photobucket.com/albums/ww269/gray1721/Untitled-1-1.jpg

Adrian

[Roberto V.]

1914 Kodak, can't remember the model to be honest. I used it when I first got it, and at the moment it's being modified into a very special camera. it's gonna be the first of it's kind as far as I know. I'll make a thread about it when I finish. It might take a while though, because I'm finishing a car design and I have to make a scale model, so that will take some time. I might recement the lens and replate or paint the front standard in the meantime.

[Roberto V.]

Here is a picture of my oldest camera:

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/201/471343379_d03e49d51d_o.jpg

A Kodak 3A pocket camera from 1907 complete with leather case and strap. The camera is in very much excellent condition and still has that "new bellows smell". Here are some photos I took with it recently (this year) on 120 film


That's the one, mine is a 3A too. I've seen your pictures with the 3A on Flickr, they are amazing. Looks beautiful with the red bellows. I might have to get one of those to use without modding it. Mine is without bellows at the moment. They were in such bad condition that I just threw them in the trash.

[Requin]

My oldest is a Sanderson, perhaps 1895, with Unicum shutter and a Tayler, Taylor & Hosson lens with 5.03" focus. The wooden film holders have light leaks, so taking photos is impossible.

[greyelm]

My oldest Baenack is a 1929 model I s/n 196xx factory converted to model II.

http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll110/Greyelm/BlackII.jpg

[Dralowid]

http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=61008&d=1214144114

The oldest one I have is on the left, s/n 10xxx, 1928. 100% reliable though the shutter is far from quiet...which I suppose is something to do with there being no brake on earlier cameras.

Michael

[RanceEric]

My oldest is my Zeiss Ideal 250/3 (1927-38.. not sure the exact year for mine)
I use a Plaubel Makina 6x9 roll film back and an improvised ground glass back for focusing (cut a cd case to 6.5x9.5, and put translucent tape over it) :)
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5012/5483285596_4a65f657d8.jpg

[smasher]

~1953 Retina Ia.
~1955 Retina IIIc.
~1958 Aries 35 III-L.

[helenhill]

1938 IIIa.... #269244

[barnwulf]

1935 Leica II which I haven't seen for almost 5 months. It's in the hands of Don Goldberg hopefully to return soon. Jim

EDIT: My 1935 Leica II came back from DAG and work beautifully. I also found a very clean 1935 Summar 50mm f2 lens for it. I am delighted with it but I have only put a couple of rolls of film through it. I have it out to go along when I go out to shoot today. I also shoot quite a bit with a Zeiss Super Ikonta III and IV that are from the mid 1950s Jim

[Keith]

Leica 1a from 1930 .. hanging out here with it's bodyguard! :D


http://www.rangefinderforum.com/rffgallery/gallery/5265/U5265I1279180765.SEQ.0.jpg

[TXForester]

Kodak 35. If the info I got off the net is right, it is a '48. Put one roll through it so far.

[n5jrn]

My two oldest cameras are box cameras from the 20s or 30s (hard to tell; both models had long production runs) that thankfully take 120 film. One I've used, the other's optics need a little cleaning before it can be used. Someday...

[drew.saunders]

I have a "Kodak No. 2-A Folding Cartridge Premo Camera. Single lens (Meniscus Achromatic)" according to the original instruction book, which is probably worth 2x what the camera is, or more. The bellows have gaping holes, and it takes #116 film. Nope, can't use it.

[kievman]

A 1957 Kiev 4a and a 1953 Rollicord IV with a very sharp lens , a F3.5 Tessar, I still use both. OH and my Canon P from 1959. All great cameras!!!!!!! -kievmam

[Proteus617]

The oldest that I use regularly is my dial-set 6x9 Avus from the 20's. Tiny camera, big negatives.

http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m137/Proteus617/DSC02536.jpg

http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m137/Proteus617/Avus/img005a640x-1.jpg

[helenhill]

Leica 1a from 1930 .. hanging out here with it's bodyguard! :D


http://www.rangefinderforum.com/rffgallery/gallery/5265/U5265I1279180765.SEQ.0.jpg

This is sooooo Goooood !!!!!
LoL...:D
Cheers- H

[loquax ludens]

My oldest camera is a Korona Panoramic View Camera, 8x20. I don't know exactly when it was made, but they were manufactured from 1914 to 1930's. The bellows on mine were replaced by the previous owner, and the wood was refinished. I have four film holders for it. I usually do pt/pd contact prints from the negatives.

[mnmleung]

My oldest camera is a 1935 Leica III. Acquired it, put a couple of rolls of film through it without having to send it in for service.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4004/4529674817_4f80cd0dff_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mnmleung/4529674817/)
Jack's creation (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mnmleung/4529674817/) by D'Arne, Ming & Jack (http://www.flickr.com/people/mnmleung/), on Flickr

[haempe]

My oldest camera (1933 Leica III) is currently out of order, but my 1934 Super Nettel is in regular use.

[DanOnRoute66]

Probably my Nikon S2:

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5299/5470528084_125cc6cd3d_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/29400777@N08/5470528084/sizes/z/in/photostream/)

I think most, if not all, of the S2s were made before 1957, which is the production year of my next-oldest camera, a Kiev-IIa. And, yes, I use both the Nikon and the Kiev quite often.

[charjohncarter]

1948 Land 95 converted to 4x5, used it last Friday:

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5281/5355441761_dd30a39fd4.jpg

Longest owned camera, purchsed in 1964 for $50, used it yesterday:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2252/1656531178_910e2c0dd1.jpg

[RichC]

2007 - my Leica M8 ... I've never used film! :)

[umcelinho]

I still use the 1958 Leica M2 I got when it was 9-10 years old, and the Summicron that I got with it. But it has a 50 Sonnar-ZM on it at the moment... :)

9-10 years old? wow, your parents sure had good taste :)

[Krosya]

Love and use these:
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2755/4216496262_c3a57b8870.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/73041278@N00/4216496262/)
Voigtlander Superb (http://www.flickr.com/photos/73041278@N00/4216496262/) by krosyagms (http://www.flickr.com/people/73041278@N00/), on Flickr


http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2708/4209203500_4c8911c331.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/73041278@N00/4209203500/)
welturs (http://www.flickr.com/photos/73041278@N00/4209203500/) by krosyagms (http://www.flickr.com/people/73041278@N00/), on Flickr

[meanstreetshooter]

Leica M4 (ca.1967). Used weekly during spring, summer, and fall. I'll probably have it serviced this year.

[divewizard]

My two oldest cameras are both stereo Realist format 35mm cameras. I use them both, but not often. Which is the oldest is unknown to me.

1) Scale Focus Realist 45
2) Rangefinder Wollensak Stereo 10

[p.giannakis]

This is the oldest camera I own, c. 1952, and i use it quite often.

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hwPhieMaF2w/TnjviYLnBkI/AAAAAAAACuY/qJ9XJfbRehI/s1600/leica.jpg

[Tom A]

At the moment my oldest camera is a 1931 Leica II. Slightly dented "shell" so it wont take IXMOO cassettes and even regular cassettes are stiff to pull out. Works fine otherwise - bought it from the original owner in 1994. Came with a Hektor 50mm f2.5. I like the slow speeds - below 1/20 you determine the speed, based on how fast you can remove your finger from the release!

[Jack Conrad]

Super Ikonta C originally purchased from Photo-Plait, Paris in 1937 which sort of adds to the provenience.

http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac358/jackconrad/Cameras/97c9217b.jpg

http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac358/jackconrad/Cameras/ea3de3ce.jpg

[tunalegs]

http://powflip.com/data/photographs/ansco1.jpg

I haven't used it in two years because I don't have a reel for 120. I know that it predates the Ansco/Agfa merger since it has the big brass ANSCO on the front. So it has to be from 1927 or earlier.

It sometimes leaks a little light, but otherwise takes nice pictures.

[rxmd]

http://www.rangefinderforum.com/rffgallery/gallery/4985/U4985I1267370310.SEQ.0.jpg

1949 Kiev in the foreground. I do use it, but quite rarely.

[AJShepherd]

My oldest camera is a No.2 Brownie, a model I believe went out of production in 1933.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2678/4174354597_d883989527_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ajshepherd/4174354597/)http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2775/4175115286_5ce8667976_m.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ajshepherd/4175115286/)

And here's a recent image from it...
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6021/5974527735_37a0c85a2e_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ajshepherd/5974527735/)
Sphinxes (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ajshepherd/5974527735/) by Antony J Shepherd (http://www.flickr.com/people/ajshepherd/), on Flickr

[laurentb]

My Rolleiflex 3.5 B is by far my most used camera.

[Snapper_uk]

This gets used every now and then, lovely pics... From 1961.

http://www.firlecc.com/images/mypics/IMG_5988.jpg

[Ron (Netherlands)]

Here is an update from my former post (now deleted):

"Because it is quite uncommon, I put my oldest on camerapedia: http://www.camerapedia.org/wiki/Mars_Camera but I don't use it. The oldest I use isn't even my first batch Leica III (1933) but the Zorki 2 from 1955, because I like it better than the Leica."

This year, 2011, I sold the Leica III and the Zorki 2. The oldest one in use now is a Leica II from 1932 factory converted to a IIa synch.
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5243/5273095779_e7310d1a4f_b.jpg

[L. M. Tu]

My oldest is still rather young, a 67x Nikon F with F36 motor drive from 1959.

[greylensman]

Canon VI-L. Barely older than my Canon P, both see regular use. Both from 1958.

[MaxElmar]

I've a 5x7 Seneca View which dates to the 1920s that gets used very occasionally. The '36/'37 Leica IIIa gets used a bit more often. There's a gaggle of post-WWII cameras I use a lot - Kodak Medalist, Speed Graphic, Leica IIIc, 1953 Rolleiflex 2.8C - I use these in place of modern film cameras.

[Mr_Flibble]

The oldest camera I have is Kodak No.2 Box Brownie (1930s).


after 4 years I guess I can update that with:

Vest Pocket Kodak (post-WW1, early 1920s)

http://www.flibweb.nl/flibweb/cpg143/albums/userpics/10001/vestpocket06.jpg
Scan doesn't do the 127 format negative justice.


Kodak No.2 Autographic folding brownie (with poor bellows)
http://www.flibweb.nl/flibweb/cpg143/albums/userpics/10001/ZB080018a.jpg
Another poor scan

[roboflick]

Contax ii 1938
I use it every week, beautiful camera

Nik

[pdexposures]

I've a 5x7 Seneca View which dates to the 1920s that gets used very occasionally.

I would LOVE to see this!

I have a 1904 Seneca View 5x7 seen here:

http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4097/4889793304_90f8a5c0e7_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pdexposures/4889793304/)
Seneca View 5x7 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pdexposures/4889793304/) by pdexposures (http://www.flickr.com/people/pdexposures/), on Flickr

Still use it from time to time.

[Vince Lupo]

KW Reflex Box - 1933-35. 6x9cm on 120 film.

http://www.earlyphotography.co.uk/Images/C53.JPG

[goamules]

My oldest Lens is a CC Harrison from 1851, and yes I use it. My oldest camera is an 1890s Rochester Optical Co, and yes also. More than half the fun is using the old equipment.

[camperbc]

Yesterday I purchased a pristine 1917 Kodak Autographic 1A with the Anastigmat 130mm f7.7 lens. Everything is perfect. Hard to believe this camera is 94 years old! Even came with the original engraved stylus. (for recording text images on the film)

I have not yet taken my own pics of it, so here are a few snapshots from the seller.

Glen
FocusOnNewfoundland.com

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v217/camperbc/522840205_obbb.jpg



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v217/camperbc/522840135_ob.jpg



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v217/camperbc/522840631_ob.jpg



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v217/camperbc/522840418_ob.jpg

[Greyscale]

My oldest is either a Kodak No. 2-C Folding Autographic Brownie or a Kodak No 3A Folding Cartridge Hawk-Eye model B, both post 1917. The 3A is in working condition but needs a bllows, the 2A has a broken lens and shutter, but is in very good condition otherwise.

My oldest working camera is this Yashica YK, Yashica's second fixed-lens rangefinder (1959), and a very pretty camera:

http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6120/6261666169_6b8c7232dd_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/greyscale3/6261666169/)
Yashica YK (http://www.flickr.com/photos/greyscale3/6261666169/) by Greyscale3 (http://www.flickr.com/people/greyscale3/), on Flickr

[healyzh]

Mine is a Rochester Optical 8x10 "Ideal" View Camera that was probably made between 1890 and 1897, but possibly as late as 1903.

http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4092/5004411291_36fb6939b5.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/33848088@N03/5004411291/)
Rochester Optical 8x10 "Ideal" View Camera (http://www.flickr.com/photos/33848088@N03/5004411291/) by Zane's Photography (http://www.flickr.com/people/33848088@N03/), on Flickr

I have a "Turner-Reich" Anastigmat f/6.8 Series II No. 5 lens
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2243/5776827350_bc41964a86.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/33848088@N03/5776827350/)
My new Lens (http://www.flickr.com/photos/33848088@N03/5776827350/) by Zane's Photography (http://www.flickr.com/people/33848088@N03/), on Flickr

With a second set of elements from a "Turner-Reich" Anastigmat f/7.0 Series II, that allows me to build five different lenses.
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2618/5776286795_1b431b031c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/33848088@N03/5776286795/)
Extra lens elements (http://www.flickr.com/photos/33848088@N03/5776286795/) by Zane's Photography (http://www.flickr.com/people/33848088@N03/), on Flickr

I've so far only shot using trimmed down 8x10 Ilford Paper. The holder itself is intended for dry plates, but I've created shims for it Unfortunately it turned out to be a bit less than 8x10, so the kodak film sheaths intended to allow you to use sheet film in plate holders won't work. At some point I plan to get a new camera back built that will allow the use of modern film holders.
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3197/5875358988_ce5ea0d28e.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/33848088@N03/5875358988/)
Second 8x10 Shot (http://www.flickr.com/photos/33848088@N03/5875358988/) by Zane's Photography (http://www.flickr.com/people/33848088@N03/), on Flickr

[japancamerahunter]

I ended up keeping this. I ran a roll of presto through it yesterday. It is a later model, made for sale in Japan. Early 50's. Still functions perfectly.
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5105/5660500512_931d2c6cc0_b.jpg

[huntjump]

some amazing cameras in here.

[ronnies]

I must update my info here as my oldest camera is now a Butchers Watch Pocket Carbine from approximately the mid 1920s. Not used it yet but in theory I could as it takes 120 film. My oldest used camera is also about to change from my 1960 Rolleicord Va to an Agfa Isolette I.

Ronnie

[Gareth Rees]

my oldest is a Zeiss Ikoflex TLR 850/16 "coffee can" with Novar 4.5 lens, 1934-37.

It still works. The images are as expected bluer than fashionable now.
Must use it again soon.

[buzzardkid]

Leica III from 1935 with Summar 50mm f2.0 from 1937
FED S with FED 50mm f2.0 from 1941

Both in use on a regular basis, the FED S and lens have recently been CLA'd by Yuri at Fedka.com. Smooth as butter, no telling these babies are 70 years old.

Things have changed since 2009.

Nowadays I'm shooting a Leica II in black paint and nickel with a nickel Elmar 50/3.5 from 1932.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7009/6533288323_290d044a60_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/buzzardkid/6533288323/)
Leica II and uncoated Elmars (http://www.flickr.com/photos/buzzardkid/6533288323/) by Johan Kuiper, Portretteur.nl, buzzardkid (http://www.flickr.com/people/buzzardkid/), on Flickr

Also own a Zeiss-Ikon Box Tengor from the early 1930s, still has the customs led tag on it.
http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4022/4487852700_ae2b857605_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/buzzardkid/4487852700/)
Zeiss Ikon Box-Tengor 1934-1938 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/buzzardkid/4487852700/) by Johan Kuiper, Portretteur.nl, buzzardkid (http://www.flickr.com/people/buzzardkid/), on Flickr

The 1941 FED-S still is present but now has a 28/4.5, the 50/2.0 Summar clone it came with and two different types of 100/6.3 with it.
http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4031/4445944184_024d23cde1_z.jpg?zz=1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/buzzardkid/4445944184/)
FED S with FED 100/6.3 and FED 50/2.0 lenses (http://www.flickr.com/photos/buzzardkid/4445944184/) by Johan Kuiper, Portretteur.nl, buzzardkid (http://www.flickr.com/people/buzzardkid/), on Flickr

All get regular exercise.

[ajramirez]

My oldest is an Argus A2F from 1940 inherited from my grandfather:

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5140/5466788388_1c5f1ea34d_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ramirezaponte/5466788388/)
1940 Argus A2F (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ramirezaponte/5466788388/) by ramirezaponte (http://www.flickr.com/people/ramirezaponte/), on Flickr

I have used it, but the image quality is not good enough for regular use:

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5138/5419624179_699828af24_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ramirezaponte/5419624179/)
Venta de pasillo (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ramirezaponte/5419624179/) by ramirezaponte (http://www.flickr.com/people/ramirezaponte/), on Flickr

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5131/5420228772_7d815e68e8_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ramirezaponte/5420228772/)
Check cashing (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ramirezaponte/5420228772/) by ramirezaponte (http://www.flickr.com/people/ramirezaponte/), on Flickr

My oldest usable camera is probably my 1953 Kodak Signet 35:

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5138/5466849524_822d529e6c_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ramirezaponte/5466849524/)
1953 Kodak Signet 35 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ramirezaponte/5466849524/) by ramirezaponte (http://www.flickr.com/people/ramirezaponte/), on Flickr

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5224/5631419845_14648fb594_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ramirezaponte/5631419845/)
La reja II (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ramirezaponte/5631419845/) by ramirezaponte (http://www.flickr.com/people/ramirezaponte/), on Flickr

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5104/5628470926_e49fe40048_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ramirezaponte/5628470926/)
Cielo negro (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ramirezaponte/5628470926/) by ramirezaponte (http://www.flickr.com/people/ramirezaponte/), on Flickr

Cheers,

Antonio

[Crazy Fedya]

My oldest camera was 1939 Contax II. Since about a week ago, it is 1935 BP Leica III, you can see lower. I have no use for cameras I can't shoot. I have about 40 cameras, and all of them are shootable. I cycle through all of them.Sometimes I use some of them for extended period of times, but I derive a lot more pleasure from changing them. I prefer them to be fully mechanical.


http://www.rangefinderforum.com/photopost/data/500/BPLIII_1_of_1_.jpg

[zuiko85]

Mine is a circa 1928 Kodak 1A Autographic. I load 120 with spacers for a panoramic.

[a doppia faccia]

Adox Polo, early 1960's

[coelacanth]

The oldest one I've got is 1938 Leica III and I still use it regularly. It's one of the smoothest Leica I've ever used as well.

[Muller]

My oldest users are a Moskva 4 and a FED 2, both from 1956.

Haven't had the opportunity to shoot the Moskva lately though.

[Timmyjoe]

Mid 1940's Kodak Brownie TLR. Don't use it as much as I do my 1954 Leica iiif RD with 5 cm collapsible Summicron from the same year (shown in my avatar). I shoot dozens of rolls of Tri-X through the Leica each year.

Best,
-Tim

[muf]

1960's Voigtlander Vitomatic IIa is the oldest I have. Heavy critter.

Paul

[kode]

The oldest one I have is a Meopta Flexaret II, which ought to have been made in the late '40s sometime. And yeah, I've at least run one roll through it, should make time to take more photos with it some day. It performs decently, I guess.

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5250/5373797604_4b82e58fa7.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/herr_eriksson/5373797604/)

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5164/5378344017_e2108eab1f.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/herr_eriksson/5378344017/)

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5206/5378345083_eb0da2d5cf.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/herr_eriksson/5378345083/)

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5247/5378945988_65fcb38f98.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/herr_eriksson/5378945988/)

[BobYIL]

IIIc, from 1947. Still functioning...

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3593/5764757428_210989a69a_z.jpg

[dct]

It is also my first camera I got.

http://www.rangefinderforum.com/rffgallery/gallery/41720/U41720I1308084072.SEQ.0.jpg (http://www.pbase.com/dct/image/134160794)

Ferrania ibis 6/6
A simple collapsible 6x6 P&S from around 1960.

[robbieduncan]

The oldest camera I own is a Leica M3 from about '56. I bought it to use it so yes, it gets used.

[118 (Dom)]

Lyraflex TLR. It was my first TLR, shot a roll or two but that was a few years ago. Might start using it again!

[Mr_Flibble]

I recently acquired a Kodak Autographic Vest Pocket, Special camera with an early body. Manufactured in the UK and comes with a Taylor, Taylor and Hobson f/6.5 lens. My oldest camera (1915).

Bellows are shot, and a leaf spring is missing inside the film compartment, but nothing that can't be fixed.

http://www.flibweb.nl/flibweb/cpg143/albums/userpics/10001/VPK-04.jpg

[pixelatedscraps]

I have a really bloody old Voigtlander 6x9 folder from about 1923 I think. Also a Zeiss Ikon Nettar from around the early 1930s but I'll have to check and post some photos.

Have I used either of them for more than one roll of film? Nope.

[buzzardkid]

Nowadays my oldest camera is the early-number Leica II from 1932:

http://portretteur.nl/images/stories/sitegear/50ElmarII.jpg (http://portretteur.nl/index.php?option=com_content&view=section&layout=blog&id=6&Itemid=96)
Click the picture to read all about it!

[JMQ]

I own the Thornton Pickard Hythe Mk III training gun/camera that takes 120 film, shaped like the Lewis gun, even with the drum magazine. It was used to train aerial gunners in WW1, so that would put it about 1917 or so.

[RichW]

The Leica IIIa Jesse generously gifted me from 1939, works as good as any modern camera only the viewfinder is a tiny bit tricky to judge compositions with sometimes, am thinking of buying a seperate finder.

A bookshop near me has a Kodak Bull's Eye Brownie 1896 model camera for £25, I am tempted to buy it but will modern film fit in it? I dont want it just for decoration :)

Cheers, Richard

[KoNickon]

Yes, a circa 1937 Retina Type 141.

[reagan]

a 1930 Leica.1 converted to 3 & a 1934 Leica.3, both used without hesitation and enjoyed. the rest of my *occasional regulars* are 50's Zorkis.

[Ronald_H]

My oldest used to be a Leica M2. It is definitely a user.

But now I have a Zenit-S, a Yashica 44 and a Yashica 44a that are all older. The 44 I have used once. Actually a pretty lovely little camera.

[1750Shooter]

1898 Seneca City View 5x7 w/135mm Kodak Wide-field Ektar from the '30s. The combination takes beautiful photos!

[seakayaker1]

Oldest camera I have is a 1969 Rolleiflex f3.5 with Carl Zeiss 75mm Planar (type 4).

From the listing above I feel like a young man again.

[Brucefg]

Nikon 2001