What is the Voigtlander Avus 9×12 Film Camera?
The Voigtlander Avus 9×12 Film Camera is a vintage piece of equipment that was manufactured by Voigtlander, a renowned German camera manufacturer. It is a medium format film camera that was first introduced in the early 20th century, specifically in the 1920s. This camera is designed to work with 9×12 centimeter film, which was widely used during that time.
Features and Specifications
The Voigtlander Avus 9×12 Film Camera is known for its exceptional build quality and craftsmanship. It features a beautiful, sturdy metal body with an elegant black finish. The camera utilizes a bellows system, allowing for easy extension and compression to focus on the subject.
One of the standout features of this camera is its high-quality lens. The Voigtlander Avus is typically equipped with a Voigtlander Heliar lens, known for its sharpness, clarity, and excellent contrast. The lens can be interchanged, providing photographers with the flexibility to experiment with different focal lengths.
This film camera also offers a range of shutter speeds, typically ranging from 1/200 to 1 second, allowing for precise control over exposure. Additionally, it has an adjustable aperture, typically ranging from f/4.5 to f/16, enabling photographers to manipulate depth of field.
Availability and Pricing
As a vintage camera, the Voigtlander Avus 9×12 Film Camera is no longer in production. However, it can still be found in specialty camera stores, antique shops, and online marketplaces that cater to vintage camera enthusiasts.
The pricing of the Voigtlander Avus varies depending on its condition, rarity, and included accessories. On average, you can expect to pay several hundred dollars for a well-maintained, fully functional Avus camera. However, prices can vary greatly, especially for models in pristine condition or with additional accessories such as original lens caps or viewfinders.
It’s important to note that the Voigtlander Avus 9×12 Film Camera is a manual-focus, manual-exposure camera. This means that it requires a good understanding of photography fundamentals and film handling techniques to achieve optimal results. However, for those seeking a unique shooting experience and a chance to explore the world of medium format film photography, the Voigtlander Avus can be a rewarding choice.
Whether you are a seasoned film photographer or someone looking to delve into the world of vintage cameras, the Voigtlander Avus 9×12 Film Camera offers a timeless charm and exceptional image quality.