Zeiss Super Ikonta 531 New Addition

Parrotgeek · 08-12-2008

I just picked up this Zeiss Super Ikonta 531 over the weekend. I'm trying to find out any details that I can about the camera as these are new to me. I do have a couple other rangefinders, but still new to this aspect of the hobby. I understand the basics, but I read of some designations like 531/16 or 531 "C" and am trying to grasp some of this. If anyone has any info I will be very appreciative. Lens serial # 2265426, Body serial # F63076.
Kevin

Argenticien · 08-12-2008

Welcome. Bookmark this site in general: http://www.butkus.org/chinon/ -- it's a trove of manuals. Once you navigate to "Z", then to the Zeiss page, you'll find that (I think) the manual you need is the "Zeiss Ikon Super Ikonta II" one (?). He's got them by model name, not 5xx/xx model number. This should help if you're looking for operating details.

I think I've previously encountered sites before that catalog all the Zeiss models (by 5xx/xx number), but don't have the links handy.

Other than that, the numerous Zeissmeisters on this forum will have a wealth of knowledge.

—Dave

chippy · 08-12-2008

its a very nice minty looking S/Ikonta A you have there Kevin. interesting too. post war 50-56 model but an uncoated CZJ lens not an Opton (does it have flash synch? i cant see it). A,B,C and D indicate the format i.e 6x4.5, 6x6 ect. in the mid 50s i think they started calling them by model 1,2,3,4.

Parrotgeek · 08-12-2008

Chippy,
Thanks, well there is no flash sync, and it is a 6X9 portrait orientation. I was told that it was probably made in '38 making it a pre-war based on the serial number, but looking for confirmation of that. It is Mint though and I was very lucky to find it.

Solinar · 08-12-2008

That's a nice 531. It looks to be in primo condition for a 70 year old camera. Zeiss-Ikon knew how to build a quality product. Welcome to RFF, too.

chippy · 08-12-2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by Parrotgeek

Chippy,
Thanks, well there is no flash sync, and it is a 6X9 portrait orientation. I was told that it was probably made in '38 making it a pre-war based on the serial number, but looking for confirmation of that. It is Mint though and I was very lucky to find it.

nah i am sure a 50-56 model-the chrome top is what makes it different to the pre-war models of which there were 2. unless they made a few chrome in late 41 but general information says that the chrome model was from 50

also this is definately 6x4.5 format (rectangular shape in the standing on end shape) if you do a search you will see the 6x9 super ikonta are huge in comparison.

the uncoated CZJ lens is what makes it interesting--the serial number for the lens indicates lens was made after 41 and before the 42 batch was produced (however that does not mean it was atatched to a camera yet). i would hazzard a guess and say this was probably made just after the war from left over pre-war (should say war time!) stock..which they were known to do

Parrotgeek · 08-12-2008

I stand corrected, it is 6X4.5, I got confused because it says 6X9 inside the back cover, thanks for the correction. The outfit also came with 5 filters, the lens hood, and the original cable release that has an orange button and says "Zeiss Ikon" on the button. Pretty cool...
Kevin

ZeissFan · 08-12-2008

Zeiss Ikon's 6x4.5 cameras never carried a "/x" after the model number.

Briefly, here's the breakdown:

A: 6x4.5, Model number with no "/x" following it

B: 6x6, Model number is followed by "/16"

C: 6x9, Model number is followed by "/2"

D: 6.5 x 11 (116 Film), Model number is followed by "/15"

The A, B, C models used 120 film. Some, but not all, of the 6x9 C models also could accept a mask in the film chamber that would allow the photographer to shoot 6x4.5.

Looks like you have a very nice camera.

chippy · 08-12-2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by Parrotgeek

I stand corrected, it is 6X4.5, I got confused because it says 6X9 inside the back cover, thanks for the correction. The outfit also came with 5 filters, the lens hood, and the original cable release that has an orange button and says "Zeiss Ikon" on the button. Pretty cool...
Kevin

i really do like these S/ikonta the build quality ect they are great. i would of bought the one you have in a heart beat (glad i didnt see it haha it saved me some money), and all the extras are great too!!

Parrotgeek · 08-12-2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by chippy

i really do like these S/ikonta the build quality ect they are great. i would of bought the one you have in a heart beat (glad i didnt see it haha it saved me some money), and all the extras are great too!!

LOL, you would have had to come to Jamestown CA to the little antique shop that was hiding it. I got lucky, and he came down twice on the price before I ever made an offer. We were there panning for Gold last weekend, just goofing around, and then checked out the antique stores for "Stuff".
Kevin

chippy · 08-12-2008

wish i got lucky like that!

ah well seeing how i havn't got the spare cash for the plane ticket it saved me a rather lenghty swim as well

ZeissFan · 08-13-2008

The Zeiss Ikon cameras were generally built to a high standard, in their choice of materials and quality of construction. If you get a chance, find a Zeiss Ikon folding Contessa.

Windscale · 08-13-2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by ZeissFan

The Zeiss Ikon cameras were generally built to a high standard, in their choice of materials and quality of construction. If you get a chance, find a Zeiss Ikon folding Contessa.

Fully agreed. That one with the Tessar. Good transport, light, superb lens and accurate RF.