Kodak Retina II (type 122) Film Camera: A Timeless Classic
The Kodak Retina II (type 122) film camera is a vintage camera that was a highly sought-after piece of equipment during its time. It was manufactured by the renowned imaging company, Kodak, and was released in 1936, making it one of the earliest models in the Retina series.
This camera was a 35mm folding rangefinder camera, which allowed photographers to capture high-quality images using 35mm film. It featured a built-in coupled rangefinder that enabled precise focusing, ensuring sharp and clear photographs. The Retina II (type 122) also boasted an interchangeable lens system, providing photographers with the versatility to use different lenses for various shooting situations.
One of the standout features of the Retina II (type 122) was its compact and elegant design. Its folding mechanism made it portable and easy to carry around, making it a popular choice among photographers who wanted a reliable camera for travel and street photography.
The Kodak Retina II (type 122) camera had a wide range of shutter speeds from 1 to 1/500 seconds, allowing photographers to capture both fast-moving action and long-exposure shots. It also featured a built-in light meter, which was a unique feature for its time, helping photographers achieve accurate exposure settings.
As for the lens options, the camera was equipped with a high-quality Schneider-Kreuznach Retina-Xenar lens, renowned for its exceptional sharpness and clarity. The lens had a maximum aperture of f/3.5, offering photographers the ability to achieve beautiful depth of field.
When it was first released, the Kodak Retina II (type 122) film camera was priced at around $95, which was quite a substantial amount of money back in the 1930s. However, its excellent performance, reliability, and image quality made it a worthy investment for professional photographers and enthusiasts alike.
Over the years, the Retina II (type 122) has become a collector’s item and is highly valued by vintage camera enthusiasts. Its timeless design and superb optics continue to impress photographers to this day.
In conclusion, the Kodak Retina II (type 122) film camera is a classic piece of equipment that has stood the test of time. Its exceptional build quality, advanced features for its era, and the ability to capture stunning images have made it a beloved choice among photographers. Whether you are a vintage camera collector or a photography enthusiast looking to explore the world of film photography, the Retina II (type 122) is a camera worth considering.
