Kodak Retina Ia (Type 015) 35mm Folding Camera — Schneider Xenar 50mm f/2.8, ca. 1951–54
CHF 120.00
This example is fitted with the highly regarded Schneider-Kreuznach Retina-Xenar 50mm f/2.8 lens — a four-element Tessar-type formula manufactured under licence and known for its crisp, contrasty rendering even at wide apertures. The lens serial number visible on the front ring reads 3500711, consistent with early-to-mid 1950s Schneider production. The shutter is the Synchro-Compur (SVARO variant) with speeds running B, 1, 1/2, 1/5, 1/10, 1/25, 1/50, 1/100, 1/250, 1/500 s, X and M flash synchronisation, and a self-timer lever. The shutter rim also carries the depth-of-field scale and aperture ring, following Retina convention.
The top plate is engraved with the script "Retina Ia" designation and carries the accessory shoe, film-advance knob, shutter-cocking knob, rewind knob with folding crank, and a small circular frame counter. The rear door features the distinctive rectangular film pressure-plate window typical of the Ia. The camera is presented in its original two-part dark-brown leather ever-ready case with intact stitching, a functional shoulder strap with swivel clips, and the separate lid section visible alongside.
Condition is consistent with regular but careful use over the decades: chrome shows light wear at contact points, the leatherette is intact with no tears or lifting, and the lens appears free of significant haze or fungus to visual inspection. The shutter and aperture blades appear to be present and the self-erecting mechanism operates. Internal mechanical and optical condition cannot be fully confirmed without bench testing and should be verified by a technician before use.
Material: Die-cast aluminium body with satin-chrome top plate, black leatherette covering, polished chrome lens barrel and shutter bezel; original dark-brown leather ever-ready case with shoulder strap
Condition notes
Overall condition grades at VG+ to EX. The chrome top plate shows light brassing/wear at edges and contact points, most notably at the advance knob surround, but no deep scratches or dents are evident. The black leatherette covering is fully intact, supple, and free of tears, bubbling, or lifting. The Synchro-Compur shutter ring and aperture bezel retain most of their chrome lustre with only minor surface marks. The front element of the Xenar lens appears clear with no obvious haze or fungus visible from the front; rear element and internal elements not fully assessable from images alone. The self-erecting front standard appears to sit square and lock positively. The original leather ever-ready case is in good to VG condition — the leather is darkened with age-patina but structurally sound, stitching is intact, and the shoulder strap swivel clips are functional. The separate lid shows some scuffing on the outer corners. Mechanical function (shutter speeds, self-timer, film transport) and optical clarity should be verified by a competent technician before use.