Difference between revisions of "Gamma Duflex"
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The '''Duflex''' is a technologically advanced [[35mm]] camera developed by Jenő Dulovits and patented in 1942, and licensed to [[Gamma Optikail Művek]] of Budapest for production. The first samples were produced in 1948, with the bulk of the production occurring in 1949. Then Gamma was nationalized as a state industry, and production of the camera ceased. | The '''Duflex''' is a technologically advanced [[35mm]] camera developed by Jenő Dulovits and patented in 1942, and licensed to [[Gamma Optikail Művek]] of Budapest for production. The first samples were produced in 1948, with the bulk of the production occurring in 1949. Then Gamma was nationalized as a state industry, and production of the camera ceased. | ||
| − | In addition to its separate albada viewfinder, the Duflex | + | In addition to its separate albada viewfinder, the Duflex offers eye-level [[reflex finder|reflex viewing]] using a relay mirror (the original [[pentaprism]] concept proving too costly to produce). This was the first [[SLR]] camera to offer an instant-return mirror; but because Gamma was only able to build ~535 cameras<REF>{{McKeown12}} Page 337. Research attributed to Zoltàn Fejèr.</REF> the 1954 [[Asahiflex|Asahiflex IIb]] is often mistakenly credited as the first camera to offer this feature. Another advanced feature is automatic aperture stopdown using a linkage within the lens barrel. The camera has a focal-plane shutter with metal blinds, giving speeds 1 - 1/1000 second,plus 'B', set with a knob on the right of the top plate, by the release button. |
| − | The streamlined styling | + | The streamlined styling incorporates knurled wind knobs in the ends of the body, similar to the [[Vokar I]] introduced in 1946. |
==Notes== | ==Notes== | ||
Revision as of 13:50, 20 December 2023
The Duflex is a technologically advanced 35mm camera developed by Jenő Dulovits and patented in 1942, and licensed to Gamma Optikail Művek of Budapest for production. The first samples were produced in 1948, with the bulk of the production occurring in 1949. Then Gamma was nationalized as a state industry, and production of the camera ceased.
In addition to its separate albada viewfinder, the Duflex offers eye-level reflex viewing using a relay mirror (the original pentaprism concept proving too costly to produce). This was the first SLR camera to offer an instant-return mirror; but because Gamma was only able to build ~535 cameras[1] the 1954 Asahiflex IIb is often mistakenly credited as the first camera to offer this feature. Another advanced feature is automatic aperture stopdown using a linkage within the lens barrel. The camera has a focal-plane shutter with metal blinds, giving speeds 1 - 1/1000 second,plus 'B', set with a knob on the right of the top plate, by the release button.
The streamlined styling incorporates knurled wind knobs in the ends of the body, similar to the Vokar I introduced in 1946.
Notes
- ↑ 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). Page 337. Research attributed to Zoltàn Fejèr.
Links
- Gamma Hungarian Duflex by Zoltàn Fejèr, at Oddity Cameras
- Duflex serial no. 149137, with 5cm f/3.5 Artar, offered for sale at the 41st Leitz Photographica Auction, in November 2022: several good pictures of details of the camera.
- Duflex serial no. 149176, with 5cm f/3.5 Gammar, sold at the 27th Camera Auction by Westlicht Photographica Auction (now Leitz Photographica Auction), in June 2015: several good pictures.
- Duflex serial no. 149202, with 5cm f/3.5 Artar, sold at the 28th Westlicht Camera Auction.
