Agfa Optima Reflex

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The Optima Reflex (also sold in some countries as the Agfamatic Reflex) is a 35 mm TLR camera made by Agfa from 1961-66.[1] It is extremely unusual in that it is a twin-lens reflex camera fitted with a permanent pentaprism viewfinder. Pentaprism viewfinders were available as accessories for other twin-lens reflex cameras such as the Rolleiflex, but it is unusual to find a TLR with a permanent pentaprism viewfinder.

The Optima Reflex is a revised version of the Flexilette, with an eye-level pentaprism viewfinder instead of a waist-level finder, and with a selenium lightmeter supporting a fully automatic exposure mechanism. The aperture and shutter speed selector dials of the Flexilette were deleted for the Optima Reflex. McKeown states that this automatic exposure mechanism is designed to favour fast shutter speeds at the expense of aperture.[1]

The camera has coated Color Apotar 45mm f/2.8 lenses, and a Prontor shutter with speeds 1/30 - 1/250 second, plus 'B'. Close focus is approximately 3 feet. The camera supports X-synch flash units. The film transport carries unexposed film from the right side of the camera to the left (photographer's viewpoint), and the single-stroke film advance lever is on the bottom of the camera body. An accessory embossed leather case was available.[2]


Notes

  1. 1.0 1.1 McKeown, James M. and Joan C. McKeown's Price Guide to Antique and Classic Cameras, 12th Edition, 2005-2006. USA, Centennial Photo Service, 2004. ISBN 0-931838-40-1 (hardcover). ISBN 0-931838-41-X (softcover). p30.
  2. Brooks Cameras Directory, 1965

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