Description

The Kodak Retina Ia is a compact and beautifully crafted 35mm folding film camera, introduced by Kodak in the early 1950s. It was part of Kodak’s highly regarded Retina series, which is known for its solid build, high-quality lenses, and compact design. The Retina Ia is notable for its simplicity and reliability, making it a favorite among photographers seeking a portable yet capable film camera. Video upload of camera working in great condition. Key Features of the Kodak Retina Ia 1. Lens: • Equipped with a Schneider-Kreuznach Retina-Xenar lens, typically a 50mm f/3.5 or f/2.8. • Known for its sharpness and color rendition, the Schneider-Kreuznach lens offers excellent optical quality for its time, rivaling many other lenses in the 35mm format. 2. Shutter: • Most models come with a Compur or Compur-Rapid shutter, offering speeds from 1 second to 1/500th of a second, plus Bulb (B) mode for long exposures. • This mechanical shutter is durable and precise, allowing for creative control over exposure. 3. Build Quality: • The camera body is made of metal and covered in leatherette, giving it a premium and durable feel. • The folding mechanism allows the lens and bellows to retract into the body, making it compact and easy to carry. 4. Viewfinder: • A simple optical viewfinder is used for framing, without any built-in rangefinder. • Focusing is done manually by estimating the distance or using an external rangefinder if needed. 5. Film Format: • Uses standard 35mm film, which was (and still is) widely available. • Produces images in a 24x36mm format, the standard for 35mm photography. 6. Metering: • The Retina Ia does not have a built-in light meter, so exposure settings must be determined manually or with the help of an external light meter. Usage and Appeal • Portability: Its compact size and folding design make it an ideal camera for travel or street photography. • Reliability: The mechanical design ensures operation without batteries, making it robust and dependable even decades after its manufacture. • Image Quality: The Schneider-Kreuznach lens delivers high-quality, sharp images with pleasant bokeh at wider apertures. Limitations • Manual Operation: All settings (focus, aperture, and shutter speed) must be set manually, which can be challenging for beginners. • No Rangefinder: Focusing requires estimating distance or using an external rangefinder. Legacy The Kodak Retina Ia is cherished by film photography enthusiasts for its classic design, excellent lens, and historical significance. It’s a camera that embodies the craftsmanship of mid-20th-century photography and continues to produce stunning images when used today. If you enjoy shooting film and appreciate vintage gear, the Retina Ia is a rewarding camera to use and collect.