Argus C33

Argus C 33 image by Rick Soloway (Image rights)

The C 33 represents a very strange 1959 attempt by Argus to modernize the C3. Keeping the brick design the camera now sports a combined rangefinder/viewfinder and will accept a selenium meter which clips onto the shutter-speed dial.

When compared to competing Japanese cameras then being brought to market, it is hard to avoid the conclusion that Argus had badly lost its way by this time. The Argus Autronic I followed soon after, retaining a similar boxy styling but now incorporating the meter and rangefinder couplings within the camera's body.

Lenses

The Argus C 33 accepted two optional lenses that were made in Germany by Steinheil, Munich (Munchen). A 35mm, f4.5 wide-angel Cintar and a 100mm, f4.5 telephoto Cintar. Both bayonet mount lenses coupled to the split image rangefinder and, having non-rotating barrels, the engraved distance numbers, depth of field scale and f-stops remained easily visible and upward facing while focusing. The two lenses were not compatible with any other Argus models.

The wide-angle and telephoto lenses came with lens shades that matched the brushed aluminum finish of the lens barrels and screwed into the series VI front lens ring. Both lenses were of a four element design, coated and had click f-stops.

Argus C 33 Wide-angle Steinheill Cintar 35mm f4.5 image by Frank Reiser (Image rights)

Argus C 33 Telephoto Steinheill Cintar 100mm f4.5 image by Frank Reiser (Image rights)

Argus C 33 Bayonet Mount with “Red Dot” alignment image by Frank Reiser (Image rights)