Difference between revisions of "Semi Proud"

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{{Japanese Semi}}
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{{Japanese Semi prewar
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The '''Semi Proud''' (セミ・プラウド) is a [[Japanese 4.5×6 folders|Japanese 4.5×6 folding camera]] made by the company [[Proud]]. It first appeared as a [[Baldax]] copy, and the '''Semi Proud II''' and '''III''' are variations. The '''Super Semi Proud''' is a rangefinder version, inspired by the [[Roll-Op|Roll-Op II]] by [[Plaubel]]. The name '''Semi Proud II''' was used again for a short-lived [[Ikonta]] copy, and different post-war cameras were called Semi Proud too.
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|image=[http://www.flickr.com/photos/camerawiki/47834324441/in/pool-camerawiki/ https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47834324441_608496ed10_m_d.jpg]
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<br>''Picture by Henk. {{with permission}}''
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}}
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''For the postwar Semi Proud horizontal folder made by [[Sumida]], see [[Proud postwar folders]].''
  
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All the prewar models were distributed by [[Yamashita|Yamashita Yūjirō Shōten]].
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The '''Semi Proud''' (セミ・プラウド, ''semi puraudo'') is a [[Japanese 4.5×6 folders|Japanese 4.5×6 folding camera]] made by [[Proud|Proud-sha]]. It first appeared as a [[Baldax]] copy, and the '''Semi Proud II''' and '''III''' are variations. The '''Super Semi Proud''' is a rangefinder version, inspired by the [[Plaubel]] [[Roll-Op|Roll-Op II]]. The name '''Semi Proud II''' was used again for a short-lived [[Ikonta]] copy, and different post-war cameras were called Semi Proud too (see [[Proud postwar folders]]).
  
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== The original Baldax copy ==
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All the prewar and wartime models were distributed by [[Yamashita|Yamashita Yūjirō Shōten]].
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The '''original model''' appears in 1935<REF> Earliest advertisement mentioned by {{Kokusan}}, p.&nbsp;340. </REF> and is perhaps the first Japanese copy of the [[Baldax]]. It is based on the large Baldax model for #0 size shutters. It has a folding optical finder and the advance knob on the opposite side. Film advance is controlled by two red windows in the back, protected on some cameras by individual pivoting covers and on others by a common sliding cover. The back itself is hinged to the left. The front leather is embossed ''SEMI PROUD''.
 
  
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This body was sold to [[Olympus|Takachiho]] (the precursor of [[Olympus]]) company for its first camera the [[Semi Olympus]].<REF> Source: [http://www.olympus.co.jp/en/corc/history/camera/index.cfm?ote=1 The medium format folders at the Olympus corporate site]. Somewhat confirmed by a discussion with John Foster in [[Talk:Olympus folders]]. </REF> (It is possible that the [[Adler|Adler CII]] and [[Adler|Adler III]] models by [[Riken]] are based on this body too.)
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== The viewfinder-only Baldax copy ==
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=== General description ===
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The first Semi Proud cameras are copies of the large [[Baldax]] model for #0 size shutters. There is a folding optical finder in the middle of the top plate and an advance knob at the bottom right, as seen by a photographer holding the camera horizontally. The back is hinged to the left and the back latch is covered by a leather handle. There are two red windows to control the film advance, protected on some cameras by individual pivoting covers and on others by a common sliding cover (see below). The front leather is embossed ''SEMI-PROUD''.
  
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The Semi Proud exists with a number of lens and shutter combinations. In July 1935, the following options are advertised<REF> Advertisement published in ''Asahi Camera'', reproduced in {{Kokusan}}, p.&nbsp;88. </REF>, all of them with a Corygon lens by [[Friedrich]], engraved ''C. Friedrich München Corygon Anastigmat'':
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This body was sold to Takachiho (the predecessor of [[Olympus]]) for its first camera, the [[Semi Olympus]].<REF> Sakurai Eiichi, p.64 of {{KKS}} no.20. </REF> Other cameras based on the same body are the [[Loyal]] and [[Kelly]].
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* f:4.5 lens, [[Vario]] shutter, T, B, 25&ndash;100<REF> Speeds: {{Kokusan}}, p.&nbsp;340. </REF> ({{yen|54|1935}});
 
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* f:4.5 lens, [[Pronto]] shutter, T, B, 25&ndash;100<REF> Speeds: {{Kokusan}}, p.&nbsp;340. </REF> ({{yen|63|1935}});
 
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* f:4.5 lens, [[Compur]] shutter, T, B, 1&ndash;250<REF> Speeds: a Semi Proud has been directly observed at the 2006 Bièvres fair with a Compur shutter giving T, B, 1&ndash;250 speeds, and that seems to be standard at the time for Compur shutters in #0 size. {{Kokusan}}, p.&nbsp;340, says T, B, 1&ndash;300, maybe by mistake. </REF> ({{yen|89|1935}});
 
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* f:3.5 lens, Compur shutter, T, B, 1&ndash;250 ({{yen|105|1935}})<REF> This variant has been observed at the 2006 Bièvres fair. </REF>;
 
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* f:2.9 lens, Compur shutter, T, B, 1&ndash;250 ({{yen|120|1935}}).
 
  
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A '''popular edition''' (大衆版) is introduced later with a Japanese-made Proud Anastigmat lens and a Japanese shutter. In March 1936<REF> Advertisement published in ''Asahi Camera'', reproduced in {{Kokusan}}, p.&nbsp;71. </REF>, the rest of the range is unchanged (even the price), while the popular edition is offered in the two following variants:
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=== The original model ===
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* f:6.3 lens, [[Rulex|Rulex D]] shutter, T, B, 25&ndash;150<REF> Speeds: {{Kokusan}}, p.&nbsp;340. </REF> ({{yen|40|1936}});
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==== Documents ====
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* f:4.5 lens, Rulex D shutter, T, B, 25&ndash;150 ({{yen|45|1936}})<REF> It is the example pictured in [http://rd2h-ari.hp.infoseek.co.jp/JAS_SEMI_PROUD_RELUX_PIC.htm this page of Japan Family Camera], mistakenly called "Semi Proud II", with an accessory shoe that is probably not original. The same variant has also been observed in a Yahoo Japan auction. </REF>.
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The '''original model''', with no body release, was launched in late 1934 or early 1935. The camera is mentioned in the January 1935 issue of {{ACA}}, at the end of an article about the [[Semi Prince]],<REF> Tanimura, pp.1–2 of {{CCN}} no.116. </REF> and the earliest advertisement are dated June 1935.<REF> {{Kokusan}}, p.340, mentions an advertisement in {{ACA}} June 1935. See also the advertisement on p.4 of {{NSKT}} June 1st, 1935, reproduced on p.22 of ''Hyaku-gō goto jūkai no kiroku''. </REF> The Semi Proud is thus the first Japanese copy of the [[Baldax]].
  
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A September 1936 advertisement<REF> Advertisement published in ''Ars Camera'', reproduced in {{Kokusan}}, p.&nbsp;104. </REF> adds two new variants:
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{| class="plainlinks" align="center" width=500px style="text-align: center; clear: both;"
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* popular edition, f:3.5 lens, [[Rulex|Rulex B]] shutter, T, B, 5&ndash;150<REF> Speeds: {{Kokusan}}, p.&nbsp;340. </REF> ({{yen|58|1936}}, announced as "newly available");
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|| [http://www.flickr.com/photos/camerawiki/47790681962/in/pool-camerawiki/ https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47790681962_bf462f4de4_d.jpg]
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* Corygon f:2.9 lens, [[Compur-Rapid]] shutter, maybe T, B, 1&ndash;400<REF> Speeds: {{Kokusan}}, p.&nbsp;340, says T, B, 1&ndash;500 but it is mistaken on other shutter speeds and it seems that the standard at the time for Compur-Rapid shutters in #0 size is 1/400 top speed. </REF> ({{yen|135|1936}}).
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|-
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|| ''Advertisement in the supplement to ''[[Camera Club]]'' October 1936,<br>mentioning versions from {{yen|40|1936}} to {{yen|120|1936}}. {{public domain Japan old}}''
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|}
  
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In April 1937<REF> Advertisement published in ''Asahi Camera'', reproduced in {{Kokusan}}, p.&nbsp;89. </REF>, other options are added:
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The original Semi Proud exists with a number of lens and shutter combinations. The evolution, as seen through original advertisements, is as follows:
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* popular edition, f:4.5 lens, [[Rulex|Rulex B]] shutter, T, B, 5&ndash;150 ({{yen|50|1937}});
 
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* Corygon f:4.5 lens, [[Prontor II]] shutter, T, B, 1&ndash;150<REF> Speeds: example pictured in [http://www3.kiy.jp/~daddy/semiproud.html this page of Puppy's Island]. {{Kokusan}}, p.&nbsp;340, says T, B, 1&ndash;175, but it is mistaken on other shutter speeds. </REF> ({{yen|70|1936}})<REF> It is the example pictured in [http://www3.kiy.jp/~daddy/semiproud.html this page of Puppy's Island]. </REF>;
 
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* Corygon f:3.5 lens, Prontor II shutter, T, B, 1&ndash;150 ({{yen|85|1936}}).
 
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The rest of the range is kept the same, with prices unchanged since 1935.
 
  
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== The Semi Proud II and III ==
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{| border="1" cellpadding="4" style="margin: 0.5em 2em; text-align: center; border-collapse: collapse;"
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|-
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|| advertisement
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| rowspan=2 | {{NSKT}}, June 1935<REF> Advertisement on p.4 of {{NSKT}} June 1st, 1935, reproduced on p.22 of ''Hyaku-gō goto jūkai no kiroku''. </REF>
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| rowspan=2 | {{ACA}}, July 1935<REF> Advertisement reproduced in {{Kokusan}}, p.88. </REF>
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| rowspan=2 | {{ACA}}, March 1936<REF> Advertisement reproduced in {{Kokusan}}, p.71. </REF>
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| rowspan=2 | {{AR}}, September 1936<REF> Advertisement reproduced in {{Kokusan}}, p.104. </REF>
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| rowspan=2 | {{ACA}}, April 1937<REF> Advertisement reproduced in {{Kokusan}}, p.89. </REF>
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|-
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| lens and shutter
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|-
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| style="text-align:left" | Corygon f/2.9,<br>[[Compur-Rapid]]<br>(maybe T, B, 1–400)<REF> 1/400 top speed was standard at the time for Compur-Rapid shutters in #0 size. {{Kokusan}}, p.340, says T, B, 1–500 but this is surely a mistake. </REF>
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|| _
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|| _
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|| _
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|| {{yen|135|1936}}
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|| {{yen|135|1937}}
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|-
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| style="text-align:left" | Corygon f/2.9,<REF> The advertisement in {{NSKT}}, June 1st, 1935, reads "F3.9", certainly by mistake. </REF><br>[[Compur|Auto Compur]]<br>(T, B, 1–250)<REF name="Compur speeds 1935"> Speeds: all the Semi Proud with Compur shutter known so far have T, B, 1–250 speeds. This was standard at the time for Compur shutters in #0 size. {{Kokusan}}, p.340, says T, B, 1–300 by mistake. </REF>
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|| {{yen|120|1935}}
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|| {{yen|120|1935}}
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|| {{yen|120|1936}}
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|| {{yen|120|1936}}
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|| {{yen|120|1937}}
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|-
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| style="text-align:left" | Corygon f/3.5,<br>[[Compur|Auto Compur]]<br>(T, B, 1–250)<REF name="Compur speeds 1935" />
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|| {{yen|105|1935}}
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|| {{yen|105|1935}}
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|| {{yen|105|1936}}
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|| {{yen|105|1936}}
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|| {{yen|105|1937}}
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|-
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| style="text-align:left" | Corygon f/4.5,<br>[[Compur|Auto Compur]]<br>(T, B, 1–250)<REF name="Compur speeds 1935" />
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|| {{yen|89|1935}}
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|| {{yen|89|1935}}
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|| {{yen|89|1936}}
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|| {{yen|89|1936}}
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|| {{yen|89|1937}}
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|-
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| style="text-align:left" | Corygon f/3.5,<br>[[Prontor II]]<br>(T, B, 1–150)
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|| _
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|| _
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|| _
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|| _
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|| {{yen|85|1937}}
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|-
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| style="text-align:left" | Corygon f/4.5,<br>[[Prontor II]]<br>(T, B, 1–150)
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|| _
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|| _
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|| _
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|| _
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|| {{yen|70|1937}}
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|-
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| style="text-align:left" | Corygon f/4.5,<br>[[Pronto|Auto Pronto]]<br>(T, B, 25–100)
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|| {{yen|65|1935}}
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|| {{yen|63|1935}}
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|| {{yen|63|1936}}
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|| {{yen|63|1936}}
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|| {{yen|63|1937}}
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|-
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| style="text-align:left" | Corygon f/4.5,<br>[[Vario|New Vario]]<REF> The advertisement in {{NSKT}}, June 1st, 1935, reads ユーバーリ (''yūbāri''), certainly a misprint for ニユーバーリオ (''nyū bārio'', New Vario). </REF>
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|| {{yen|54|1935}}
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|| {{yen|54|1935}}
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|| {{yen|54|1936}}
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|| {{yen|54|1936}}
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|| {{yen|54|1937}}
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|-
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| style="text-align:left" | Lausar f/4.5,<br>[[Rulex|Rulex B]]<REF> The range of speeds for this version is unconfirmed, probably 5–150, B, T. </REF>
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|| {{yen|62|1935}}
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|| _
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|| _
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|| _
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|| _
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|-
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| style="text-align:left" | Popular edition,<br>Proud f/3.5,<br>[[Rulex|Rulex B]]<br>(5–150, B, T or 5–200, B, T)<REF> The range of speeds indicated in the advertisement in {{AR}} September 1936 is 5–150, B, T. </REF>
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|| _
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|| _
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|| _
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|| {{yen|58|1936}}<REF> Mentioned as "newly available" (愈々発売). </REF>
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|| {{yen|58|1937}}
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|-
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| style="text-align:left" | Popular edition,<br>Proud f/4.5,<br>[[Rulex|Rulex B]]<br>(5–150, B, T or 5–150, B, T)
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|| _
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|| _
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|| _
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|| _
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|| {{yen|50|1937}}
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|-
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| style="text-align:left" | Popular edition,<br>Proud f/4.5,<br>[[Rulex|Rulex D]]<br>(25–150, B, T)
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|| _
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|| _
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|| {{yen|45|1936}}
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|| {{yen|45|1936}}
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|| {{yen|45|1937}}
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|-
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| style="text-align:left" | Popular edition,<br>Proud f/6.3,<br>[[Rulex|Rulex D]]<br>(25–150, B, T)
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|| _
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|| _
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|| {{yen|40|1936}}
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|| {{yen|40|1936}}
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|| {{yen|40|1937}}
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|}
  
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The '''Semi Proud II''' and '''Semi Proud III''' appear in 1938. They introduce two innovations: a body release and an automatic stop advance device with an exposure counter. The latter seems inspired by the [[Plaubel]] device mounted on the [[Roll-Op|Roll-Op II]] folder and on roll-film backs for the [[Makina]], but it is not a plain copy.
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==== Lens and shutter features ====
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The Lausar and Rulex combination mentioned in the June 1935 advertisement is all-Japanese, with a lens by [[Tomioka]] and a shutter by [[Neumann & Heilemann]]. It is not sure if it was actually sold.
  
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There is some confusion in the early advertisements for the Semi Proud II and III: in an advertisement dated February 1938<REF> Advertisement published in ''Asahi Camera'', reproduced in {{Kokusan}}, p.&nbsp;89. </REF> the Semi Proud II is announced with the auto-stop advance only, while the Semi Proud III has both auto-stop advance and a body release. The camera pictured is a Semi Proud II: the Compur shutter has a sort of release arm mounted on the shutter plate and connected with the shutter's own release lever. The release lever of the Compur is meant to be used with a body release linkage and thus it is not very accessible. The purpose of the release arm is probably to overcome this problem.
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The Corygon lenses were made by the German company [[Friedrich]] and are engraved ''C. Friedrich. München. Corygon–Anastigmat''. Some of the [[Compur]] shutters have a release arm mounted on the front plate and connected with the shutter's own release lever. The release lever of the Compur, designed to be used with a body release linkage, is placed at the bottom and is impractical to operate. The purpose of the release arm is probably to overcome this problem. The exact same device is found on some examples of the [[Semi Olympus]].
  
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In a later advertisement dated September 1938<REF> Advertisement published in ''Asahi Camera'', reproduced in {{Kokusan}}, p.&nbsp;89. </REF> the Semi Proud II has the body release only and costs between {{yen|63|1938}} and {{yen|125|1938}}, while the Semi Proud III again has both features and costs between {{yen|68|1938}} and {{yen|130|1938}}.
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The '''popular edition''' (大衆版), introduced in late 1935,<REF> {{Kokusan}}, p.340, mentions an advertisement for the popular edition in {{ACA}} October 1935. </REF> corresponds to the Japanese-made Proud Anastigmat lens, combined with a Japanese [[Rulex]] shutter. The actual lens marking evolved: the earliest lenses have ''PROUD Anastigmat'', soon replaced by ''Proud Anastigmat''.<REF> ''PROUD Anastigmat'': example observed in an online auction, lens number certainly in the 1xxx range. ''Proud Anastigmat'': example pictured in this article, lens no.2877. </REF> This was gradually replaced by ''U.L.L. Proud Anastigmat'' or ''U.L.L. Anastigmat'' at a later period.<REF> ''U.L.L. Proud Anastigmat'': example pictured in Inoue, p.131 of {{KKS}} no.14. ''U.L.L. Anastigmat'': examples observed in online auctions. </REF> This lens was certainly made by [[Miyoshi|Miyoshi Kōgaku]]. On most examples of the popular edition, the [[Rulex]] shutter has the older type of front plate, but some late ones with U.L.L. Proud Anastigmat or U.L.L. Anastigmat lens have the newer type (see [[Rulex]]).
  
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Later the same year, in November 1938, the Semi Proud II is advertised with body release and red window advance, and the Semi Proud III designation has disappeared. The auto-stop device is available as an option, costing &yen;4.50 to which was added an extra &yen;0.50 for fitting. The camera is offered with a [[U.L.L.]] lens by [[Miyoshi Kōgaku]], engraved ''U.L.L. Anastigmat'', in the following combinations:
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==== Actual examples ====
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* f:4.5 lens, [[Rulex|Rulex B]] shutter ({{yen|63|1938}});
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Minor changes occurred during the production run. '''Early cameras''' have a striated pattern on the leather covering, and have individual red window covers. '''Transitional examples''' have the same striated pattern on the leather covering, and have a common sliding cover for the red windows, whereas '''late examples''' have a smoother leather covering.
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* f:4.5 lens, [[Rulex|Rulex A]] shutter ({{yen|68|1938}})<REF> The prices of the two first versions is swapped in the advertisement, obviously by mistake. </REF>;
 
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* f:3.5 lens, Rulex B shutter ({{yen|72|1938}});
 
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* f:3.5 lens, Rulex A shutter ({{yen|77|1938}});
 
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* f:4.5 lens, unknown shutter, maybe Parker<REF> Inferred from the ''katakana'' パーカー. </REF>, giving 1&ndash;250 speeds with self-timer ({{yen|89|1938}});
 
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* f:3.5 lens, same shutter ({{yen|98|1938}});
 
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* f:2.9 lens, same shutter ({{yen|115|1938}});
 
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* f:4.5 lens, [[Compur]] shutter ({{yen|100|1938}});
 
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* f:3.5 lens, [[Compur]] shutter ({{yen|110|1938}});
 
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* f:2.9 lens, [[Compur]] shutter ({{yen|125|1938}}).
 
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One example with an U.L.L. Anastigmat 7.5cm f:4.5 lens and a Compur shutter giving T, B, 1&ndash;250 speeds has been observed<REF> In a Yahoo Japan auction. </REF>. {{Kokusan}} also mentions a Prontor II shutter option with the f:4.5 and f:3.5 lenses.<REF> {{Kokusan}}, p.&nbsp;340. </REF>
 
  
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In 1940<REF> Advertisement published in the February 1940 issue of ''Asahi Camera'', reproduced in {{Kokusan}}, p.&nbsp;90. </REF> the same model is advertised again as '''Semi Proud''' in short. Only the combinations with a Rulex shutter are offered, at slightly here [[Japanese prices#1940|prices]].
 
  
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== The Super Semi Proud ==
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The following combinations have been observed:
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* Corygon-Anastigmat 7.5cm f/2.9, [[Compur]] (T, B, 1–250, self-timer)<REF> Example pictured in Tanaka, p.77 of {{KKS}} no.8, and example observed in an online auction. </REF>
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* Corygon-Anastigmat 7.5cm f/3.5, [[Compur]] (T, B, 1–250, self-timer)<REF> Example pictured in this article, and example observed in an online auction. </REF>
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* Corygon-Anastigmat 7.5cm f/4.5, [[Compur]] (T, B, 1–250, self-timer)<REF> Examples observed in online auctions. </REF>
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* Corygon-Anastigmat 7.5cm f/4.5, [[Prontor|Prontor II]] (T, B, 150–1, self-timer)<REF> Example observed in a website which is now dead. </REF>
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* Proud Anastigmat 7.5cm f/3.5, [[Rulex|Rulex B]] (5–150, B, T)<REF> Example observed in an online auction. </REF>
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* Proud Anastigmat 7.5cm f/4.5, [[Compur]] (T, B, 1–250, self-timer)<REF> Example pictured in Hibi, p.62 of {{KKS}} no.8. </REF>
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* Proud Anastigmat 7.5cm f/4.5, [[Rulex|Rulex B]] (5–200, B, T)<REF> Example observed in an online auction. </REF>
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* U.L.L. Proud Anastigmat 7.5cm f/4.5, [[Rulex|Rulex B]] (5–200, B, T)<REF> Example observed in Inoue, p.131 of {{KKS}} no.14. </REF>
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* Proud Anastigmat 7.5cm f/4.5, [[Rulex|Rulex D]] (25–150, B, T)<REF> Example pictured in this article, example pictured in {{SUG}}, item 1234, example formerly pictured in a page at [http://www.asahi-net.or.jp/~rd2h-ari/ Japan Family Camera] (with non original accessory shoe, mistakenly called "Semi Proud II"), examples observed in online auctions. </REF>
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* U.L.L. Triple Anastigmat 7.5cm f/4.5, [[Rulex|Rulex D]] (25–150, B, T)<REF> Example pictured in [http://ranzosha.web.fc2.com/d025semiproud.html this page by Ranzōsha]. </REF>
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* U.L.L. Anastigmat 7.5cm f/4.5, [[Rulex|Rulex D]] (25–150, B, T)<REF> Example observed in an online auction. </REF>
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* U.L.L. Anastigmat 7.5cm f/4.5, [[Neuheil]] (5–150, B, T), shutter maybe not original<REF> Example observed in an online auction. </REF>
  
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The '''Super Semi Proud''' (スーパー・セミ・プラウド) is a model with coupled rangefinder. The whole lens and shutter assembly is mounted on a helical for unit focusing. The models observed have no auto-stop advance. In the advertisements observed, the pictures do not clearly show the film advance part, and the text is ambiguous about the availability of the auto-stop advance for the rangefinder model.
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{| class="plainlinks" align="center" style="text-align: center;"
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|| [http://www.flickr.com/photos/camerawiki/47788048172/in/pool-camerawiki/ https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47788048172_2b5a287ba8_d.jpg]
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|-
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|| ''Semi Proud, late type, Compur shutter, Corygon Anastigmat 7.5cm f/3.5 lens no.189876.<br><small>Picture by Keith Rock. {{with permission}}</small>''
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|}
  
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The first advertisements, in 1937, show a '''pre-production version''', mentioned to be "available soon".<REF> Advertisement published in the May 1937 issue of ''Asahi Camera'', reproduced in {{Kokusan}}, p.&nbsp;90. </REF> There is no finder visible, and the rangefinder housing extends to the left end of the top plate, in a rounded shape. Maybe a combined view- and rangefinder was planned but never made, another possibility being that the camera was pictured in an unfinished state.
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=== The Semi Proud II and III ===
 +
The '''Semi Proud II''' and '''Semi Proud III''' appeared in 1938. They introduced two innovations: a body release and an automatic stop advance device with an exposure counter. The latter seems inspired by the [[Plaubel]] device mounted on the [[Roll-Op|Roll-Op II]] folder and on roll-film backs for the [[Plaubel Makina]], but it is not a straightforward copy.
  
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On the '''first production version''', the overall layout is similar to the [[Roll Op II]] by [[Plaubel]] (itself derived from the Baldax). The viewfinder is a separate tubular one, offset at the right end of the top plate. The rangefinder unit has one rectangular and one round window, and it is engraved ''SUPER SEMI&ndash;PROUD'' between both. The body itself is still engraved ''SEMI PROUD'' in the front leather. There is a long rod between the viewfinder and the rangefinder, certainly the folding bed opening. A body release is mentioned in the advertisements, it seems that it is located on the folding bed, to be tripped by the left hand, but the pictures do not show this very precisely.  
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==== Documents ====
 +
There is some confusion in the original documents on the features of the II and III. It seems that the name "Semi Proud II" originally applied to the model with auto-stop advance only, whereas the name "Semi Proud III" provided both auto-stop advance and a body release. These is the description given in the February 1938 advertisement in {{ACA}}.<REF> Advertisement reproduced in {{Kokusan}}, p.89. </REF> The document shows a picture of a camera with auto-stop advance and a [[Compur]] shutter with a release arm at the front.
  
−
This version is advertised in the June 1938 issue of ''Asahi Camera''<REF> Advertisement reproduced in {{Kokusan}}, p.&nbsp;90. </REF> with the following options:
+
The body release was certainly soon adopted as standard on all the cameras. As a consequence, the name "Semi Proud II" was applied to the version with body release and no auto-stop advance, whereas the "Semi Proud III" remained unchanged, as appears in the September 1938 advertisement in {{ACA}}.<REF> Advertisement reproduced in {{Kokusan}}, p.89. </REF> The document mentions the price range of {{yen|63|1938}} to {{yen|125|1938}} for the Semi Proud II and {{yen|68|1938}} to {{yen|130|1938}} for the Semi Proud III.
−
* Proud f:3.5 lens, [[Rulex|Rulex B]] shutter ({{yen|120|1938}});
 
−
* Proud f:3.5 lens, [[Rulex|Rulex A]] shutter ({{yen|130|1938}});
 
−
* Proud f:3.5 lens, [[Compur]] shutter ({{yen|155|1938}});
 
−
* Corygon f:4.5 lens, Compur shutter ({{yen|155|1938}});
 
−
* Corygon f:3.5 lens, Compur shutter ({{yen|167|1938}});
 
−
* Corygon f:2.9 lens, Compur shutter ({{yen|190|1938}}).
 
−
It also appears in a 1938 price list of the dealer Shinbi-Dō (眞美堂), offered with an f:4.5 lens and a Compur shutter for &yen;140. {{Kokusan}} also mentions [[U.L.L.]] f:4.5, f:3.5 and f:2.9 lenses mounted in Compur or Parker<REF> Again inferred from the ''katakana'' パーカー. </REF> shutters. It has been observed with such a combination: [[U.L.L.]] Proud Anastigmat 7.5cm f:4.5 lens and Compur shutter giving T, B, 1&ndash;250 speeds.<REF> Example displayed in [http://sts.kahaku.go.jp/sts/detail.php?id=1033&key=103310371061&APage=7 this page of the JCII collection]. </REF>
 
  
−
The '''second production version''' is released at the end of 1938<REF> {{Kokusan}}, p.&nbsp;340, mentions an advertisement dated December 1938. </REF>. It has a restyled top housing, reminiscent of the [[Super Sport Dolly]] by [[Certo]], integrating both the view- and the rangefinder. There are two identically sized rectangular windows at one end and one round window at the other. The folding bed release button protrudes slightly from this top housing. The body release seems is again mentioned in an advertisement<REF> Advertisement published in the February 1939 issue of ''Asahi Camera'', reproduced in {{Kokusan}}, p.&nbsp;90. </REF>, and it seems to be at the same place as before. Here is the list of available variants:
+
The model name "Semi Proud III" was later abandoned. In the November 1938 advertisement in {{ACA}}, the camera with body release is called Semi Proud II, and the auto-stop device is mentioned as an option with no particular model name, costing ¥4.50 with extra ¥0.50 for fitting.<REF> Advertisement reproduced in {{Kokusan}}, p.89. </REF> The following combinations are listed for the camera, all with a U.L.L. lens by [[Miyoshi|Miyoshi Kōgaku]]:
−
* U.L.L. Proud f:4.5 lens, Parker shutter ({{yen|135|1939}} &mdash; case extra &yen;6);
+
{| border="1" style="margin: 0.5em 2em; text-align: center; border-collapse: collapse;"
−
* U.L.L. Proud f:3.5 lens, Parker shutter ({{yen|145|1939}});
+
|-
−
* U.L.L. Proud f:2.9 lens, Parker shutter ({{yen|165|1939}});
+
|| shutter
−
* U.L.L. Proud f:4.5 lens, Compur shutter ({{yen|145|1939}});
+
| rowspan="2" | [[Rulex|Rulex B]]
−
* U.L.L. Proud f:3.5 lens, Compur shutter ({{yen|155|1939}});
+
| rowspan="2" | [[Rulex|Rulex A]]
−
* U.L.L. Proud f:2.9 lens, Compur shutter ({{yen|175|1939}});
+
| rowspan="2" | [[Parkur]]
−
* Corygon f:4.5 lens, Compur shutter ({{yen|155|1939}});
+
| rowspan="2" | [[Compur]]
−
* Corygon f:3.5 lens, Compur shutter ({{yen|167|1939}});
+
|-
−
* Corygon f:2.9 lens, Compur shutter ({{yen|190|1939}}).
+
| lens
−
It has been observed<REF> Pictured in a Chinese forum. </REF> with a U.L.L. Proud Anastigmat 7.5cm f:3.5 lens and a Compur shutter giving T, B, 1&ndash;250 speeds.
+
|-
 +
| style="text-align:left" | f/4.5
 +
|| {{yen|63|1938}}
 +
|| {{yen|68|1938}}<REF> The prices of the Rulex A, f/4.5 and Rulex B, f/4.5 versions are swapped in the advertisement, obviously by mistake. </REF>
 +
|| {{yen|89|1938}}
 +
|| {{yen|100|1938}}
 +
|-
 +
| style="text-align:left" | f/3.5
 +
|| {{yen|72|1938}}
 +
|| {{yen|77|1938}}
 +
|| {{yen|98|1938}}
 +
|| {{yen|110|1938}}
 +
|-
 +
| style="text-align:left" | f/2.9
 +
|| _
 +
|| _
 +
|| {{yen|115|1938}}
 +
|| {{yen|125|1938}}
 +
|}
 +
Other documents reportedly list a [[Prontor II]] shutter option with the f/4.5 and f/3.5 lenses.<REF> {{Kokusan}}, p.340. </REF>
 +
 
 +
After some time, the mention of model II was abandoned and the camera with body release was simply called "Semi Proud". In advertisements dated May and June 1939 and February 1940,<REF> May and June 1939: advertisements published in {{AR}}, reproduced in Fujishima, p.24 of {{CCN}} no.42. February 1940: advertisement published in {{ACA}}, reproduced in {{Kokusan}}, p.90. </REF> this model is offered along with the [[Semi Prux]]. Only the four versions with [[Miyoshi|U.L.L.]] lens and [[Rulex]] shutter are listed, respectively priced at {{yen|70|1939}}, {{yen|75|1939}}, {{yen|80|1939}} and {{yen|85|1939}}.<REF> Six options are listed in the advertisements, but the "Rulex B" and the "Rulex shutter (5–200)" (priced the same) are probable duplicates. </REF> The June 1939 and February 1940 advertisements show two company names: [[Proud|Proud-sha]] and [[Miyoshi|Miyoshi Kōgaku]]. It seems that these two companies merged after some time.
 +
 
 +
The camera reportedly appears in the new products column of the April 1940 issue of {{ACA}}, with a [[Koho]] shutter by [[Olympus|Takachiho]] (the later Olympus).<REF> {{Kokusan}}, p.340. </REF>
 +
 
 +
The Semi Proud is finally mentioned in the official list of set prices compiled in October 1940 and published in January 1941, in three versions called "Semi Proud I" (¥74), "Semi Proud II" (¥85) and "Semi Proud III" (¥121), with no further detail.<REF> {{Kakaku0141_short}}, type 3, sections 4A, 5A and 6B. </REF> It is not known for sure if these models correspond to the Baldax copy or to the Ikonta copy described below.
 +
 
 +
==== Actual examples ====
 +
{| class="plainlinks" align="center" style="text-align: center;"
 +
| rowspan=2 | [http://www.flickr.com/photos/camerawiki/32890739287/in/pool-camerawiki/ https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/32890739287_90044063e6_d.jpg]
 +
|| [http://www.flickr.com/photos/camerawiki/47782555262/in/pool-camerawiki/ https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47782555262_c2854ac7db_m_d.jpg]
 +
|-
 +
|| [http://www.flickr.com/photos/camerawiki/47782580302/in/pool-camerawiki/ https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47782580302_43c9f3d2a9_m_d.jpg]
 +
|-
 +
| colspan=2 | ''Semi Proud II, [[Koho]] shutter (1–150, B, T), U.L.L. Anastigmat 7.5cm f/3.5 lens no.4954.<br>Pictures by Henk. {{with permission}}''
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
The Semi Proud II with body release has been observed with the following combinations:
 +
* Corygon-Anastigmat 7.5cm f/3.5, [[Compur]] (T, B, 1–250, self-timer)<REF> Example observed in an online auction. </REF>
 +
* U.L.L. Anastigmat 7.5cm f/4.5, [[Compur]] (T, B, 1–250, self-timer)<REF> Example observed in an online auction. </REF>
 +
* U.L.L. Anastigmat 7.5cm f/4.5, [[Rulex|Rulex A]] (1–250, B, T)<REF> Examples observed in online auctions. </REF>
 +
* U.L.L. Anastigmat 7.5cm f/3.5, [[Rulex|Rulex B]] (5–200, B, T)<REF> Example observed in an online auction. </REF>
 +
* U.L.L. Anastigmat 7.5cm f/4.5, shutter by [[Mars|Mars Tokyo]] (T, B, 5–200), perhaps a [[Lex]]<REF> Example observed in an online auction. </REF>
 +
* U.L.L. Anastigmat 7.5cm f/3.5, [[Koho]] (1–150, B, T)<REF> Example pictured in this article. </REF>
 +
 
 +
The [[Rulex]] shutters are modified for the body release, and have a setting lever at the top. All have the newer type of front plate (see [[Rulex]]). The [[Koho]] shutter is the early version to 1/150; a linkage is provided behind the shutter casing to connect the release lever placed at the top to the body release mechanism.
 +
 
 +
The camera pictured above is a presumably '''late example'''. Its back latch is not the same as on earlier cameras, and has no leather handle. The exact same part appears on the [[Semi Rody]], another [[Baldax]] copy made by [[Shibayama]].
 +
 
 +
No actual example of the Semi Proud with auto-stop advance has yet been observed, though the device is known on at least one Super Semi Proud (see below).
 +
 
 +
== The Super Semi Proud rangefinder model ==
 +
The '''Super Semi Proud''' (スーパー・セミ・プラウド) is a model with coupled rangefinder. The whole lens and shutter assembly is mounted on a focusing helix, controlled by a lever. The leather covering at the front is still embossed ''SEMI-PROUD'' only, but the leather case is embossed ''Super Semi Proud''.
 +
 
 +
=== First model ===
 +
{| class="plainlinks" align="center" style="text-align: center;"
 +
|| [http://www.flickr.com/photos/camerawiki/32890795107/in/pool-camerawiki/ https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/32890795107_610b945f6b.jpg]
 +
|-
 +
|| [http://www.flickr.com/photos/camerawiki/46922277085/in/pool-camerawiki/ https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/46922277085_e81341f35d_m.jpg] [http://www.flickr.com/photos/camerawiki/32894732707/in/pool-camerawiki/ https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/32894732707_73c336a00d_m.jpg] [http://www.flickr.com/photos/camerawiki/47049125324/in/pool-camerawiki/ https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47049125324_b0db4747ac_m.jpg] [http://www.flickr.com/photos/camerawiki/32894770797/in/pool-camerawiki/ https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/32894770797_c45fb49428_m.jpg]
 +
|-
 +
|| [http://www.flickr.com/photos/camerawiki/33961331688/in/pool-camerawiki/ https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/33961331688_d7250cd6b3_m.jpg] [http://www.flickr.com/photos/camerawiki/40872006523/in/pool-camerawiki/ https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/40872006523_ba72ee3f2f_m.jpg] [http://www.flickr.com/photos/camerawiki/33961357458/in/pool-camerawiki/ https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/33961357458_10d68fa898_m.jpg]
 +
|-
 +
|| ''Super Semi Proud, first model, manual advance, [[Compur]] shutter, Corygon-Anastigmat 7.5cm f/2.9 lens.<br>Pictures by {{image author|eBayer Yalluflex}}. {{with permission}}''
 +
|}
 +
{| class="plainlinks" align="center" style="text-align: center;"
 +
|| [http://www.flickr.com/photos/32582084@N06/11580635843/in/pool-camerawiki/ http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2865/11580635843_13ce71c9e0_m.jpg] [http://www.flickr.com/photos/32582084@N06/11580742114/in/pool-camerawiki/ http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3734/11580742114_88cb986b9d_m.jpg] [http://www.flickr.com/photos/32582084@N06/11580733484/in/pool-camerawiki/ http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2865/11580733484_59283cf7a0_m.jpg]
 +
|-
 +
|| [http://www.flickr.com/photos/32582084@N06/11580398095/in/pool-camerawiki/ http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7346/11580398095_da478f46e4_m.jpg] [http://www.flickr.com/photos/32582084@N06/11580390855/in/pool-camerawiki/ http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3757/11580390855_c4140dc756_m.jpg] [http://www.flickr.com/photos/32582084@N06/11580716324/in/pool-camerawiki/ http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5500/11580716324_04372720ae_m.jpg]
 +
|-
 +
||''Super Semi Proud, first model, manual advance, [[Compur]] shutter, C.Friedrich Corygon-Anastigmat 7.5cm f/3.5 lens.<br><small>Images by {{image author|yalluflex}}. </small>{{with permission}}''
 +
|}
 +
The overall aspect of the '''first model''' is similar to the [[Roll Op II]] by [[Plaubel]] (itself derived from the [[Baldax]]). The rangefinder housing covers about two thirds of the top plate, on the left side as seen by the photographer holding the camera horizontally. The name ''SUPER SEMI–PROUD'' is engraved at the front, between the main rectangular window and the round second-image window. There is a separate tubular viewfinder at the right end of the top plate, and a long rod between the viewfinder and the rangefinder, to release the folding bed. The main release is placed at the base of the folding bed, near the hinge, and is tripped by the left hand.
 +
 
 +
{| class="plainlinks" align="right" style="text-align: center;"
 +
|| [http://www.flickr.com/photos/camerawiki/32894819337/in/pool-camerawiki/ https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/32894819337_4e8ff93dd5_m.jpg]
 +
|-
 +
|| ''Auto-stop advance mechanism on a Super Semi Proud.<br>Picture by eBayer Yalluflex. {{with permission}}''
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
The earliest known advertisement, in {{ACA}} May 1937, shows a '''pre-production version''', described as "available soon".<REF> Advertisement reproduced in {{Kokusan}}, p.90. It is the earliest advertisement mentioned on p.340 of the same source. </REF> No viewfinder is visible and the rangefinder housing extends to the left end of the top plate, with a rounded shape; either the camera has a combined range- and view-finder that was not put into production, or it is an incomplete prototype. The folding bed release is a simple button instead of a rod, because of the absence of a tubular viewfinder. The camera is pictured with a [[Compur]] shutter. The release button and linkage are not visible either, and the shutter is perhaps tripped directly by a lever on the side of the lens.
 +
 
 +
The regular production version was advertised in the June 1938 issue of {{ACA}} with the following options:<REF> Advertisement reproduced in {{Kokusan}}, p.90. </REF>
 +
{| border="1" style="margin: 0.5em 2em; text-align: center; border-collapse: collapse;"
 +
|-
 +
|| shutter
 +
| rowspan="2" | [[Rulex|Rulex B]]
 +
| rowspan="2" | [[Rulex|Rulex A]]
 +
| rowspan="2" | [[Compur]]
 +
|-
 +
| lens
 +
|-
 +
| style="text-align:left" | Proud f/3.5
 +
|| {{yen|120|1938}}
 +
|| {{yen|130|1938}}
 +
|| {{yen|155|1938}}
 +
|-
 +
| style="text-align:left" | Corygon f/4.5
 +
|| _
 +
|| _
 +
|| {{yen|155|1938}}
 +
|-
 +
| style="text-align:left" | Corygon f/3.5
 +
|| _
 +
|| _
 +
|| {{yen|167|1938}}<REF> An example of this version is pictured in Tanaka, p.77 of {{KKS}} no.8. The picture is probably taken from an advertisement. </REF>
 +
|-
 +
| style="text-align:left" | Corygon f/2.9
 +
|| _
 +
|| _
 +
|| {{yen|190|1938}}<REF> One example of this version is pictured in this page. </REF>
 +
|}
 +
In the advertisement, an auto-stop advance device is mentioned for the Semi Proud, but it is not clear if it applies to the rangefinder model as well, though at least two examples of the Super Semi Proud is known with Corygon f/3.5 lens, [[Compur]] shutter and auto-stop advance.<REF> Examples pictured in this page and in {{SUG}}, item 1236. </REF> The camera pictured above has the most expensive lens and shutter combination, together with manual film advance.
 +
 
 +
{| class="plainlinks" align="center" style="text-align: center;"
 +
|| [http://www.flickr.com/photos/camerawiki/46922381455/in/pool-camerawiki/ https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/46922381455_a1f0584fd1_m.jpg] [http://www.flickr.com/photos/camerawiki/33961394598/in/pool-camerawiki/ https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/33961394598_5119089ed1_m.jpg] [http://www.flickr.com/photos/camerawiki/47050531464/in/pool-camerawiki/ https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47050531464_d6e6318498_m.jpg]
 +
|-
 +
|| [http://www.flickr.com/photos/camerawiki/47788027692/in/pool-camerawiki/ https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47788027692_5dccfec406_m.jpg] [http://www.flickr.com/photos/camerawiki/47050565904/in/pool-camerawiki/ https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47050565904_c25f8ffe6f_m.jpg]
 +
|-
 +
|| ''Super Semi Proud, first model, auto-stop advance, [[Compur]] shutter, Corygon-Anastigmat 7.5cm f/3.5 lens no.200502.<br>Pictures by eBayer Yalluflex. {{with permission}}''
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
Later the same year, in November 1938,<REF> Advertisement published in {{ACA}}, reproduced in {{Kokusan}}, p.89. </REF> the Super Semi Proud was advertised together with the Semi Proud II. The auto-stop device is available as an option, costing ¥4.50 and ¥0.50 for fitting, probably concerning the rangefinder model as well as the viewfinder-only Semi Proud. The camera was offered with a U.L.L. lens by [[Miyoshi|Miyoshi Kōgaku]] (engraved ''U.L.L. Proud Anastigmat''), in the following combinations:
 +
{| border="1" style="margin: 0.5em 2em; text-align: center; border-collapse: collapse;"
 +
|-
 +
|| shutter
 +
| rowspan="2" | [[Parkur]]<br>(T, B, 1–250, self-timer)
 +
| rowspan="2" | [[Compur]]<br>(T, B, 1–250, self-timer)
 +
|-
 +
| lens
 +
|-
 +
| style="text-align:left" | f/4.5
 +
|| {{yen|135|1938}}
 +
|| {{yen|145|1938}}<REF> An example of this version is pictured in {{SUG}}, item 1235, in Lewis, p.55 and in [http://sts.kahaku.go.jp/sts/detail.php?id=1033&key=103310371061&APage=7 this page] of the JCII collection. </REF>
 +
|-
 +
| style="text-align:left" | f/3.5
 +
|| {{yen|145|1938}}
 +
|| {{yen|155|1938}}
 +
|-
 +
| style="text-align:left" | f/2.9
 +
|| {{yen|165|1938}}
 +
|| {{yen|175|1938}}
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
=== Second model ===
 +
{| class="plainlinks" align="center" style="text-align: center;"
 +
|| [http://www.flickr.com/photos/32582084@N06/7167152400/in/pool-camerawiki/ http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7089/7167152400_01a9eb0f68_m.jpg] [http://www.flickr.com/photos/32582084@N06/7167147302/in/pool-camerawiki/ http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7091/7167147302_5f447cf2a7_m.jpg] [http://www.flickr.com/photos/32582084@N06/7167143462/in/pool-camerawiki/ http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7072/7167143462_5eed12d47a_m.jpg]
 +
|-
 +
|| [http://www.flickr.com/photos/32582084@N06/7167140284/in/pool-camerawiki/ http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7241/7167140284_b3347d6722_m.jpg] [http://www.flickr.com/photos/32582084@N06/7167136160/in/pool-camerawiki/ http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7088/7167136160_30179f70e3_m.jpg]
 +
|-
 +
|| ''Super Semi Proud, second model, [[Compur]] shutter, Proud-Anastigmat 7.5cm f/3.5 lens no.8549.<br>Images by {{image author|yalluflex}}. {{with permission}}''
 +
|}
 +
The '''second model'''<REF> It is called "Super Semi Proud II" in {{SUG}}, item 1237, and in {{MK}}, p.804, but it seems that it was simply called "Super Semi Proud", like the previous version. </REF>, released at the end of 1938,<REF> The earliest advertisement reported in {{Kokusan}}, p.340, is dated December 1938. </REF> has a restyled top housing, reminiscent of the [[Super Sport Dolly]] by [[Certo]], integrating both the viewfinder on the right and the rangefinder on the left. There are two identical rectangular windows at one end and a round second-image window at the other. The folding bed release button protrudes slightly from this top housing, on the right of the viewfinder. The top housing is all chrome and the name ''SUPER SEMI–PROUD'' is engraved between the two rangefinder windows. It seems that the body release is placed the same as on the first model, on the folding bed near the hinge.
 +
 
 +
In an advertisement in {{ACA}} February 1939, the list of available variants was as follows:<REF> Advertisement reproduced in {{Kokusan}}, p.90. </REF>
 +
{| border="1" style="margin: 0.5em 2em; text-align: center; border-collapse: collapse;"
 +
|-
 +
|| shutter
 +
| rowspan="2" | [[Parkur|Parkur S]]<br>(T, B, 1–250, self-timer)
 +
| rowspan="2" | [[Compur]]<br>(T, B, 1–250, self-timer)
 +
|-
 +
| lens
 +
|-
 +
| style="text-align:left" | U.L.L. Proud f/4.5
 +
|| {{yen|135|1939}}
 +
|| {{yen|145|1939}}
 +
|-
 +
| style="text-align:left" | U.L.L. Proud f/3.5
 +
|| {{yen|145|1939}}<REF> An example of this version (lens no.8616) is pictured in {{SUG}}, item 1237. </REF>
 +
|| {{yen|155|1939}}<REF> An example of this version (lens no.10147) has been observed in a Chinese forum. </REF>
 +
|-
 +
| style="text-align:left" | U.L.L. Proud f/2.9
 +
|| {{yen|165|1939}}
 +
|| {{yen|175|1939}}
 +
|-
 +
| style="text-align:left" | Corygon f/4.5
 +
|| _
 +
|| {{yen|155|1939}}
 +
|-
 +
| style="text-align:left" | Corygon f/3.5
 +
|| _
 +
|| {{yen|167|1939}}
 +
|-
 +
| style="text-align:left" | Corygon f/2.9
 +
|| _
 +
|| {{yen|190|1939}}
 +
|}
 +
The U.L.L. Proud lens is engraved ''U.L.L. Proud Anastigmat 1:xxx f=7.5cm N°xxxx'', and the shutter plate of the [[Parkur]] is inscribed ''PARKUR–TOKIO'' at the top.
 +
 
 +
The Super Semi Proud is mentioned in the official price list published in January 1941 (cited above), with the name "Super Semi Proud F" and a price of ¥248.<REF> {{Kakaku0141_short}}, type 3, section 9. </REF> It appears again with the same name in a similar price list dated November 1941, where it is attributed to [[Miyoshi|Miyoshi Kōgaku]].<REF> {{Kakaku1141_short}}, type 3, section 9. </REF>
 +
 
 +
{| class="plainlinks" align="center" style="text-align: center;"
 +
|| [http://www.flickr.com/photos/32582084@N06/12873914353/in/pool-camerawiki/ http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7369/12873914353_719a60585c_m.jpg] [http://www.flickr.com/photos/32582084@N06/12874266864/in/pool-camerawiki/ http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7408/12874266864_78b1717cba_m.jpg] [http://www.flickr.com/photos/32582084@N06/12873897263/in/pool-camerawiki/ http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7292/12873897263_a4244e83f3_m.jpg]
 +
|-
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|| [http://www.flickr.com/photos/32582084@N06/12873970753/in/pool-camerawiki/ http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3750/12873970753_86c4cb1479_m.jpg] [http://www.flickr.com/photos/32582084@N06/12873825593/in/pool-camerawiki/ http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2857/12873825593_1865ec6cf6_m.jpg] [http://www.flickr.com/photos/32582084@N06/12874210344/in/pool-camerawiki/ http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7381/12874210344_d9acbc8e06_m.jpg]
 +
|-
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||''Super Semi Proud second model, ULL Proud Anastigmat f3.5/7.5cm Lens in Parkur-Tokio shutter.<br><small>Images by {{image author|yalluflex}}. </small>{{with permission}}''
 +
|}
  
 
== The Ikonta copy ==
 
== The Ikonta copy ==
−
The next model is a copy of the [[Ikonta]], with a folding optical finder, briefly advertised as '''Semi Proud II''' (セミ・プラウドⅡ型) in 1941&ndash;2<REF> Dates of the two advertisements mentioned by {{Kokusan}}, p.&nbsp;340. </REF>. It is probable that the previous Semi Proud II was being called simply Semi Proud for a couple of years, and the model II designation was thus reused.
+
The Semi Proud was replaced by a new model, copy of the [[Ikonta]], advertised as '''Semi Proud II''' (セミ・プラウドⅡ型) in 1941–2.<REF> Dates of the two advertisements mentioned by {{Kokusan}}, p.340. </REF> It is probable that the previous Semi Proud II was being called simply "Semi Proud" for a couple of years, and the model II designation was thus reused.
  
−
It is advertised in October 1941<REF> Advertisement published in ''Shashin Bunka'', reproduced in {{Kokusan}}, p.&nbsp;106. </REF> and January 1942<REF> Advertisement published in ''Hōdō Shashin'', reproduced in {{Kokusan}}, p.&nbsp;89. </REF>, with the following lens and shutter combinations:
+
The new model is a typical Ikonta copy with a folding optical finder. The body release is on the left of the viewfinder and the folding bed release is on the right (as seen by the photographer). The back is hinged to the left.
−
* U.L.L. f:4.5 lens, Shinko<REF> Inferred from the ''katakana'' シンコー. </REF> shutter, T, B, 5&ndash;200 ({{yen|74|1941}} in 1941, {{yen|87|1942}} in 1942);
+
 
−
* U.L.L. f:3.5 lens, Selon<REF> Inferred from the ''katakana'' セロン. </REF> shutter, T, B, 5&ndash;300 ({{yen|83|1941}} in 1941, {{yen|96|1942}} in 1942).
+
The Semi Proud II is mentioned in the official price list dated November 1941, where it is attributed to [[Miyoshi|Miyoshi Kōgaku]].<REF> {{Kakaku1141_short}}, type 3, section 5A. </REF> In advertisements dated October 1941 and January 1942,<REF> October 1941: advertisement published in ''[[Shashin Bunka]]'', reproduced in {{Kokusan}}, p.106. January 1942: advertisement published in ''[[Hōdō Shashin]]'', reproduced in {{Kokusan}}, p.89. </REF> the following versions are listed:
−
The distributor is [[Yamashita|Yamashita Yūjirō Shōten]], like the earlier models. The Shinko brand in one of the shutter options belongs to this distributor.
+
* [[Miyoshi|U.L.L.]] f/4.5 lens, Shinko shutter, T, B, 5–200 ({{yen|74|1941}} in 1941, {{yen|87|1942}} in 1942);
 +
* U.L.L. f/3.5 lens, [[Selon]] shutter, T, B, 5–300 ({{yen|83|1941}} in 1941, {{yen|96|1942}} in 1942).
 +
The Shinko shutter was certainly made by [[Shinkō Seiki]], the same as on the [[Rorox and Shinko Baby|Shinko Baby]]. The [[Selon]] shutter was made by [[Miyoshi]]. The advertisements were placed by the distributor [[Yamashita|Yamashita Yūjirō Shōten]], which also distributed the Shinko cameras, and there is no mention of Miyoshi Kōgaku or [[Proud|Proud-sha]].
 +
 
 +
Rangefinder conversions were offered in 1943 by [[Hakkōdō]] for the Semi Proud II and various other copies of the Ikonta or Nettar (see [[Hakkōdō#rangefinder conversions|this page]]).
  
 
== Notes ==
 
== Notes ==
Line 94: Line 393:
  
 
== Bibliography ==
 
== Bibliography ==
−
* {{Showa10}} Items 218&ndash;21. (See also the advertisement for items 102&ndash;3, 222, 326 and 341.)
+
=== Original documents ===
 +
* ''[[Camera Club]]''. ''Saishin shashinki zenshū'' (最新写真機全集, All on the latest cameras). Supplement to the October 1936 issue. Advertisement on p.30.
 +
* {{Kakaku1141}} Type 3, sections 5A and 9.
 +
* {{Kakaku0141}} Type 3, sections 4A, 5A, 6B and 9.
 +
 
 +
=== Recent sources ===
 +
* {{Showa10}} Items 218–21. (See also the advertisements for items 102–3, 222, 326 and 341.)
 +
* Fujishima Kōichi (藤島広一). "Semi Purakkusu no o-kotae" (セミプラックスのお答え, "Answer about the Semi Prux"). In {{CCN}} no.42 (December 1980, the cover has "no.41" by mistake). Nishinomiya: Camera Collectors News-sha. Pp.23–4. (Contains a reproduction of two advertisements for the Semi Proud.)
 +
* Hibi Takashi (日比孝). "Nihon no supuringu kamera: Orinpasu" (日本のスプリングカメラ・オリンパス, "Japanese folding cameras: Olympus"). {{KKS008}} Pp.62–5. (Contains a picture of a Semi Proud.)
 +
* Inoue, Mitsuo (井上光朗). "Shashin renzu no yoake. Renzu-ya Funsenki" (写真レンズの夜明け・レンズ屋奮戦記, "Dawn of the photographic lens – Fierce war tales between lens shops"). {{KKS014}} Pp.128–132. (Contains a picture of a Semi Proud and a reproduction of an advertisement for the Super Semi Proud.)
 +
* {{Lewis}} Pp.53 and 55.
 +
* {{McKeown12}} P.804.
 +
* {{NSKT1000}} Advertisement on p.22, corresponding to p.4 of the June 1st, 1935 issue.
 +
* {{Zukan}} Items 1234–7.
 +
* Tanaka Masao (田中政雄). "Sonota no nihon no supuringu-kamera" (その他の日本のスプリングカメラ, "Other Japanese folding cameras"). {{KKS008}} Pp.76–80.
 +
* Tanimura Yoshihiko (谷村吉彦). "Semi Minolta I-gata to II-gata." (セミミノルタⅠ型とⅡ型, "Semi Minolta I and II") In {{CCN}} no.116 (February 1987). Nishinomiya: Camera Collectors News-sha. (Mentions the Semi Proud as appearing at the end of an article in {{ACA}} January 1935.)
 +
* "Zadankai: Orinpasu no michi" (座談会・オリンパスの道, "Conversation: the way of Olympus"). Interview of Sakurai Eiichi (桜井栄一), [[Maitani Yoshihisa]] (米谷美久) and Kawazoe Mitsuo (河添光男), by Saeki Kakugorō (佐伯恪五郎). {{KKS020}} Pp.64–71. (Mentions the Semi Proud as the basis of the [[Semi Olympus]].)
  
 
== Links ==
 
== Links ==
 
In Japanese:
 
In Japanese:
−
* [http://rd2h-ari.hp.infoseek.co.jp/JAS_SEMI_PROUD_RELUX_PIC.htm Semi Proud] at [http://rd2h-ari.hp.infoseek.co.jp/ Japan Family Camera], with an accessory shoe that is probably not original
+
* [http://ranzosha.web.fc2.com/d025semiproud.html Semi Proud] (popular edition, late type, Rulex D, U.L.L. Triple Anastigmat f/4.5) in [http://ranzosha.web.fc2.com/d000shasinkizai.html Ranzōsha's camera pages]
−
* [http://www3.kiy.jp/~daddy/semiproud.html Semi Proud] at [http://www3.kiy.jp/~daddy/dadtop.htm Puppy's Island]
+
* [http://sts.kahaku.go.jp/sts/detail.php?no=103310371061 Super Semi Proud] in the [http://sts.kahaku.go.jp/sts/set_brws_01.php?id=1033 Camera database] of the [http://sts.kahaku.go.jp/ Center of the History of Japanese Industrial Technology]
−
* [http://sts.kahaku.go.jp/sts/detail.php?id=1033&key=103310371061&APage=7 Super Semi Proud] in the [http://sts.kahaku.go.jp/sts/set_brws_01.php?id=1033 Camera database] of the [http://sts.kahaku.go.jp/ Center of the History of Japanese Industrial Technology]
 
  
−
[[Category: Japanese 4.5x6 viewfinder folding]]
+
[[Category: Japanese 4.5x6 viewfinder folding|Proud, Semi]]
−
[[Category: Japanese 4.5x6 rangefinder folding]]
+
[[Category: Japanese 4.5x6 rangefinder folding|Proud, Semi]]
 
[[Category: S]]
 
[[Category: S]]
 
[[Category: P|Proud, Semi]]
 
[[Category: P|Proud, Semi]]
 +
[[Category: 1935]]

Latest revision as of 06:02, 21 May 2021

47834324441_608496ed10_m_d.jpg
Picture by Henk. (Image rights)
Japanese Semi (4.5×6)
Prewar and wartime models (edit)
folding
Semi Ace | Semi Adler | Adler III | Adler A | Adler B | Adler C | Semi Ako | Ami | Bakyna | Semi Chrome | Semi Clover | Collex | Semi Condor | Semi Dymos | Semi Elega | Semi First | Auto Semi First | Baby Semi First | Gaica | Semi Gelto | Semi Germa | Hansa Semi Rollette | Heil | Hokoku | Hope | Kadera | Kankyu | Kelly | Kiko Semi | Semi Kinka | Semi Konter | Semi Kreis | Semi Kulax | Semi Lead | Semi Leotax | Semi Lester | Loyal | Semi Lucky | Semi Lyra | Semi Makinet | Semi Metax | Semi Minolta (I) and II | Auto Semi Minolta | Semi Miss | Mizuho | Semi Mulber | Semi National | New Gold | Okaco | Oko Semi | Semi Olympus | Semi Olympus II | Semi Osamo | Semi Pearl | Primo | Semi Prince | Semi Proud | Semi Prux | Roavic | Semi Rody | Rondex | Semi Rosen | Semi Rotte | Seica | Seves | Semi Shiks | Sintax | Semi Sixteenth | Semi Solon | Semi Sport | Star Semi | Semi-Tex | Tsubasa Kiko Three | Tsubasa Nettar | Tsubasa Super Semi | Ugein | Vester-Lette | Victor | Waltax | Wester | Zeitax
collapsible
Semi Kinsi | Lord | Lyrax | Nippon | New Olympic | Semi Olympic | Semi Renky | Auto Victor | Well Super
stereo
Sun Stereo
unknown
Semi Elka | Semi Keef | Napoleon
Postwar models ->
Japanese SLR, TLR, pseudo TLR and stereo ->
Japanese 3×4, 4×4, 4×5, 4×6.5, 6×6 and 6×9 ->

For the postwar Semi Proud horizontal folder made by Sumida, see Proud postwar folders.

The Semi Proud (セミ・プラウド, semi puraudo) is a Japanese 4.5×6 folding camera made by Proud-sha. It first appeared as a Baldax copy, and the Semi Proud II and III are variations. The Super Semi Proud is a rangefinder version, inspired by the Plaubel Roll-Op II. The name Semi Proud II was used again for a short-lived Ikonta copy, and different post-war cameras were called Semi Proud too (see Proud postwar folders).

All the prewar and wartime models were distributed by Yamashita Yūjirō Shōten.

The viewfinder-only Baldax copy

General description

The first Semi Proud cameras are copies of the large Baldax model for #0 size shutters. There is a folding optical finder in the middle of the top plate and an advance knob at the bottom right, as seen by a photographer holding the camera horizontally. The back is hinged to the left and the back latch is covered by a leather handle. There are two red windows to control the film advance, protected on some cameras by individual pivoting covers and on others by a common sliding cover (see below). The front leather is embossed SEMI-PROUD.

This body was sold to Takachiho (the predecessor of Olympus) for its first camera, the Semi Olympus.[1] Other cameras based on the same body are the Loyal and Kelly.

The original model

Documents

The original model, with no body release, was launched in late 1934 or early 1935. The camera is mentioned in the January 1935 issue of Asahi Camera, at the end of an article about the Semi Prince,[2] and the earliest advertisement are dated June 1935.[3] The Semi Proud is thus the first Japanese copy of the Baldax.

47790681962_bf462f4de4_d.jpg
Advertisement in the supplement to Camera Club October 1936,
mentioning versions from ¥40 to ¥120. (Image rights)

The original Semi Proud exists with a number of lens and shutter combinations. The evolution, as seen through original advertisements, is as follows:

advertisement Nihon Shashin Kōgyō Tsūshin, June 1935[4] Asahi Camera, July 1935[5] Asahi Camera, March 1936[6] Ars Camera, September 1936[7] Asahi Camera, April 1937[8]
lens and shutter
Corygon f/2.9,
Compur-Rapid
(maybe T, B, 1–400)[9] 		_ _ _ ¥135 ¥135
Corygon f/2.9,[10]
Auto Compur
(T, B, 1–250)[11] 		¥120 ¥120 ¥120 ¥120 ¥120
Corygon f/3.5,
Auto Compur
(T, B, 1–250)[11] 		¥105 ¥105 ¥105 ¥105 ¥105
Corygon f/4.5,
Auto Compur
(T, B, 1–250)[11] 		¥89 ¥89 ¥89 ¥89 ¥89
Corygon f/3.5,
Prontor II
(T, B, 1–150) 		_ _ _ _ ¥85
Corygon f/4.5,
Prontor II
(T, B, 1–150) 		_ _ _ _ ¥70
Corygon f/4.5,
Auto Pronto
(T, B, 25–100) 		¥65 ¥63 ¥63 ¥63 ¥63
Corygon f/4.5,
New Vario[12] 		¥54 ¥54 ¥54 ¥54 ¥54
Lausar f/4.5,
Rulex B[13] 		¥62 _ _ _ _
Popular edition,
Proud f/3.5,
Rulex B
(5–150, B, T or 5–200, B, T)[14] 		_ _ _ ¥58[15] ¥58
Popular edition,
Proud f/4.5,
Rulex B
(5–150, B, T or 5–150, B, T) 		_ _ _ _ ¥50
Popular edition,
Proud f/4.5,
Rulex D
(25–150, B, T) 		_ _ ¥45 ¥45 ¥45
Popular edition,
Proud f/6.3,
Rulex D
(25–150, B, T) 		_ _ ¥40 ¥40 ¥40

Lens and shutter features

The Lausar and Rulex combination mentioned in the June 1935 advertisement is all-Japanese, with a lens by Tomioka and a shutter by Neumann & Heilemann. It is not sure if it was actually sold.

The Corygon lenses were made by the German company Friedrich and are engraved C. Friedrich. München. Corygon–Anastigmat. Some of the Compur shutters have a release arm mounted on the front plate and connected with the shutter's own release lever. The release lever of the Compur, designed to be used with a body release linkage, is placed at the bottom and is impractical to operate. The purpose of the release arm is probably to overcome this problem. The exact same device is found on some examples of the Semi Olympus.

The popular edition (大衆版), introduced in late 1935,[16] corresponds to the Japanese-made Proud Anastigmat lens, combined with a Japanese Rulex shutter. The actual lens marking evolved: the earliest lenses have PROUD Anastigmat, soon replaced by Proud Anastigmat.[17] This was gradually replaced by U.L.L. Proud Anastigmat or U.L.L. Anastigmat at a later period.[18] This lens was certainly made by Miyoshi Kōgaku. On most examples of the popular edition, the Rulex shutter has the older type of front plate, but some late ones with U.L.L. Proud Anastigmat or U.L.L. Anastigmat lens have the newer type (see Rulex).

Actual examples

Minor changes occurred during the production run. Early cameras have a striated pattern on the leather covering, and have individual red window covers. Transitional examples have the same striated pattern on the leather covering, and have a common sliding cover for the red windows, whereas late examples have a smoother leather covering.


The following combinations have been observed:

  • Corygon-Anastigmat 7.5cm f/2.9, Compur (T, B, 1–250, self-timer)[19]
  • Corygon-Anastigmat 7.5cm f/3.5, Compur (T, B, 1–250, self-timer)[20]
  • Corygon-Anastigmat 7.5cm f/4.5, Compur (T, B, 1–250, self-timer)[21]
  • Corygon-Anastigmat 7.5cm f/4.5, Prontor II (T, B, 150–1, self-timer)[22]
  • Proud Anastigmat 7.5cm f/3.5, Rulex B (5–150, B, T)[23]
  • Proud Anastigmat 7.5cm f/4.5, Compur (T, B, 1–250, self-timer)[24]
  • Proud Anastigmat 7.5cm f/4.5, Rulex B (5–200, B, T)[25]
  • U.L.L. Proud Anastigmat 7.5cm f/4.5, Rulex B (5–200, B, T)[26]
  • Proud Anastigmat 7.5cm f/4.5, Rulex D (25–150, B, T)[27]
  • U.L.L. Triple Anastigmat 7.5cm f/4.5, Rulex D (25–150, B, T)[28]
  • U.L.L. Anastigmat 7.5cm f/4.5, Rulex D (25–150, B, T)[29]
  • U.L.L. Anastigmat 7.5cm f/4.5, Neuheil (5–150, B, T), shutter maybe not original[30]
47788048172_2b5a287ba8_d.jpg
Semi Proud, late type, Compur shutter, Corygon Anastigmat 7.5cm f/3.5 lens no.189876.
Picture by Keith Rock. (Image rights)

The Semi Proud II and III

The Semi Proud II and Semi Proud III appeared in 1938. They introduced two innovations: a body release and an automatic stop advance device with an exposure counter. The latter seems inspired by the Plaubel device mounted on the Roll-Op II folder and on roll-film backs for the Plaubel Makina, but it is not a straightforward copy.

Documents

There is some confusion in the original documents on the features of the II and III. It seems that the name "Semi Proud II" originally applied to the model with auto-stop advance only, whereas the name "Semi Proud III" provided both auto-stop advance and a body release. These is the description given in the February 1938 advertisement in Asahi Camera.[31] The document shows a picture of a camera with auto-stop advance and a Compur shutter with a release arm at the front.

The body release was certainly soon adopted as standard on all the cameras. As a consequence, the name "Semi Proud II" was applied to the version with body release and no auto-stop advance, whereas the "Semi Proud III" remained unchanged, as appears in the September 1938 advertisement in Asahi Camera.[32] The document mentions the price range of ¥63 to ¥125 for the Semi Proud II and ¥68 to ¥130 for the Semi Proud III.

The model name "Semi Proud III" was later abandoned. In the November 1938 advertisement in Asahi Camera, the camera with body release is called Semi Proud II, and the auto-stop device is mentioned as an option with no particular model name, costing ¥4.50 with extra ¥0.50 for fitting.[33] The following combinations are listed for the camera, all with a U.L.L. lens by Miyoshi Kōgaku:

shutter Rulex B Rulex A Parkur Compur
lens
f/4.5 ¥63 ¥68[34] ¥89 ¥100
f/3.5 ¥72 ¥77 ¥98 ¥110
f/2.9 _ _ ¥115 ¥125

Other documents reportedly list a Prontor II shutter option with the f/4.5 and f/3.5 lenses.[35]

After some time, the mention of model II was abandoned and the camera with body release was simply called "Semi Proud". In advertisements dated May and June 1939 and February 1940,[36] this model is offered along with the Semi Prux. Only the four versions with U.L.L. lens and Rulex shutter are listed, respectively priced at ¥70, ¥75, ¥80 and ¥85.[37] The June 1939 and February 1940 advertisements show two company names: Proud-sha and Miyoshi Kōgaku. It seems that these two companies merged after some time.

The camera reportedly appears in the new products column of the April 1940 issue of Asahi Camera, with a Koho shutter by Takachiho (the later Olympus).[38]

The Semi Proud is finally mentioned in the official list of set prices compiled in October 1940 and published in January 1941, in three versions called "Semi Proud I" (¥74), "Semi Proud II" (¥85) and "Semi Proud III" (¥121), with no further detail.[39] It is not known for sure if these models correspond to the Baldax copy or to the Ikonta copy described below.

Actual examples

32890739287_90044063e6_d.jpg 47782555262_c2854ac7db_m_d.jpg
47782580302_43c9f3d2a9_m_d.jpg
Semi Proud II, Koho shutter (1–150, B, T), U.L.L. Anastigmat 7.5cm f/3.5 lens no.4954.
Pictures by Henk. (Image rights)

The Semi Proud II with body release has been observed with the following combinations:

  • Corygon-Anastigmat 7.5cm f/3.5, Compur (T, B, 1–250, self-timer)[40]
  • U.L.L. Anastigmat 7.5cm f/4.5, Compur (T, B, 1–250, self-timer)[41]
  • U.L.L. Anastigmat 7.5cm f/4.5, Rulex A (1–250, B, T)[42]
  • U.L.L. Anastigmat 7.5cm f/3.5, Rulex B (5–200, B, T)[43]
  • U.L.L. Anastigmat 7.5cm f/4.5, shutter by Mars Tokyo (T, B, 5–200), perhaps a Lex[44]
  • U.L.L. Anastigmat 7.5cm f/3.5, Koho (1–150, B, T)[45]

The Rulex shutters are modified for the body release, and have a setting lever at the top. All have the newer type of front plate (see Rulex). The Koho shutter is the early version to 1/150; a linkage is provided behind the shutter casing to connect the release lever placed at the top to the body release mechanism.

The camera pictured above is a presumably late example. Its back latch is not the same as on earlier cameras, and has no leather handle. The exact same part appears on the Semi Rody, another Baldax copy made by Shibayama.

No actual example of the Semi Proud with auto-stop advance has yet been observed, though the device is known on at least one Super Semi Proud (see below).

The Super Semi Proud rangefinder model

The Super Semi Proud (スーパー・セミ・プラウド) is a model with coupled rangefinder. The whole lens and shutter assembly is mounted on a focusing helix, controlled by a lever. The leather covering at the front is still embossed SEMI-PROUD only, but the leather case is embossed Super Semi Proud.

First model

32890795107_610b945f6b.jpg
46922277085_e81341f35d_m.jpg 32894732707_73c336a00d_m.jpg 47049125324_b0db4747ac_m.jpg 32894770797_c45fb49428_m.jpg
33961331688_d7250cd6b3_m.jpg 40872006523_ba72ee3f2f_m.jpg 33961357458_10d68fa898_m.jpg
Super Semi Proud, first model, manual advance, Compur shutter, Corygon-Anastigmat 7.5cm f/2.9 lens.
Pictures by eBayer Yalluflex. (Image rights)
11580635843_13ce71c9e0_m.jpg 11580742114_88cb986b9d_m.jpg 11580733484_59283cf7a0_m.jpg
11580398095_da478f46e4_m.jpg 11580390855_c4140dc756_m.jpg 11580716324_04372720ae_m.jpg
Super Semi Proud, first model, manual advance, Compur shutter, C.Friedrich Corygon-Anastigmat 7.5cm f/3.5 lens.
Images by yalluflex. (Image rights)

The overall aspect of the first model is similar to the Roll Op II by Plaubel (itself derived from the Baldax). The rangefinder housing covers about two thirds of the top plate, on the left side as seen by the photographer holding the camera horizontally. The name SUPER SEMI–PROUD is engraved at the front, between the main rectangular window and the round second-image window. There is a separate tubular viewfinder at the right end of the top plate, and a long rod between the viewfinder and the rangefinder, to release the folding bed. The main release is placed at the base of the folding bed, near the hinge, and is tripped by the left hand.

32894819337_4e8ff93dd5_m.jpg
Auto-stop advance mechanism on a Super Semi Proud.
Picture by eBayer Yalluflex. (Image rights)

The earliest known advertisement, in Asahi Camera May 1937, shows a pre-production version, described as "available soon".[46] No viewfinder is visible and the rangefinder housing extends to the left end of the top plate, with a rounded shape; either the camera has a combined range- and view-finder that was not put into production, or it is an incomplete prototype. The folding bed release is a simple button instead of a rod, because of the absence of a tubular viewfinder. The camera is pictured with a Compur shutter. The release button and linkage are not visible either, and the shutter is perhaps tripped directly by a lever on the side of the lens.

The regular production version was advertised in the June 1938 issue of Asahi Camera with the following options:[47]

shutter Rulex B Rulex A Compur
lens
Proud f/3.5 ¥120 ¥130 ¥155
Corygon f/4.5 _ _ ¥155
Corygon f/3.5 _ _ ¥167[48]
Corygon f/2.9 _ _ ¥190[49]

In the advertisement, an auto-stop advance device is mentioned for the Semi Proud, but it is not clear if it applies to the rangefinder model as well, though at least two examples of the Super Semi Proud is known with Corygon f/3.5 lens, Compur shutter and auto-stop advance.[50] The camera pictured above has the most expensive lens and shutter combination, together with manual film advance.

46922381455_a1f0584fd1_m.jpg 33961394598_5119089ed1_m.jpg 47050531464_d6e6318498_m.jpg
47788027692_5dccfec406_m.jpg 47050565904_c25f8ffe6f_m.jpg
Super Semi Proud, first model, auto-stop advance, Compur shutter, Corygon-Anastigmat 7.5cm f/3.5 lens no.200502.
Pictures by eBayer Yalluflex. (Image rights)

Later the same year, in November 1938,[51] the Super Semi Proud was advertised together with the Semi Proud II. The auto-stop device is available as an option, costing ¥4.50 and ¥0.50 for fitting, probably concerning the rangefinder model as well as the viewfinder-only Semi Proud. The camera was offered with a U.L.L. lens by Miyoshi Kōgaku (engraved U.L.L. Proud Anastigmat), in the following combinations:

shutter Parkur
(T, B, 1–250, self-timer) 		Compur
(T, B, 1–250, self-timer)
lens
f/4.5 ¥135 ¥145[52]
f/3.5 ¥145 ¥155
f/2.9 ¥165 ¥175

Second model

7167152400_01a9eb0f68_m.jpg 7167147302_5f447cf2a7_m.jpg 7167143462_5eed12d47a_m.jpg
7167140284_b3347d6722_m.jpg 7167136160_30179f70e3_m.jpg
Super Semi Proud, second model, Compur shutter, Proud-Anastigmat 7.5cm f/3.5 lens no.8549.
Images by yalluflex. (Image rights)

The second model[53], released at the end of 1938,[54] has a restyled top housing, reminiscent of the Super Sport Dolly by Certo, integrating both the viewfinder on the right and the rangefinder on the left. There are two identical rectangular windows at one end and a round second-image window at the other. The folding bed release button protrudes slightly from this top housing, on the right of the viewfinder. The top housing is all chrome and the name SUPER SEMI–PROUD is engraved between the two rangefinder windows. It seems that the body release is placed the same as on the first model, on the folding bed near the hinge.

In an advertisement in Asahi Camera February 1939, the list of available variants was as follows:[55]

shutter Parkur S
(T, B, 1–250, self-timer) 		Compur
(T, B, 1–250, self-timer)
lens
U.L.L. Proud f/4.5 ¥135 ¥145
U.L.L. Proud f/3.5 ¥145[56] ¥155[57]
U.L.L. Proud f/2.9 ¥165 ¥175
Corygon f/4.5 _ ¥155
Corygon f/3.5 _ ¥167
Corygon f/2.9 _ ¥190

The U.L.L. Proud lens is engraved U.L.L. Proud Anastigmat 1:xxx f=7.5cm N°xxxx, and the shutter plate of the Parkur is inscribed PARKUR–TOKIO at the top.

The Super Semi Proud is mentioned in the official price list published in January 1941 (cited above), with the name "Super Semi Proud F" and a price of ¥248.[58] It appears again with the same name in a similar price list dated November 1941, where it is attributed to Miyoshi Kōgaku.[59]

12873914353_719a60585c_m.jpg 12874266864_78b1717cba_m.jpg 12873897263_a4244e83f3_m.jpg
12873970753_86c4cb1479_m.jpg 12873825593_1865ec6cf6_m.jpg 12874210344_d9acbc8e06_m.jpg
Super Semi Proud second model, ULL Proud Anastigmat f3.5/7.5cm Lens in Parkur-Tokio shutter.
Images by yalluflex. (Image rights)

The Ikonta copy

The Semi Proud was replaced by a new model, copy of the Ikonta, advertised as Semi Proud II (セミ・プラウドⅡ型) in 1941–2.[60] It is probable that the previous Semi Proud II was being called simply "Semi Proud" for a couple of years, and the model II designation was thus reused.

The new model is a typical Ikonta copy with a folding optical finder. The body release is on the left of the viewfinder and the folding bed release is on the right (as seen by the photographer). The back is hinged to the left.

The Semi Proud II is mentioned in the official price list dated November 1941, where it is attributed to Miyoshi Kōgaku.[61] In advertisements dated October 1941 and January 1942,[62] the following versions are listed:

  • U.L.L. f/4.5 lens, Shinko shutter, T, B, 5–200 (¥74 in 1941, ¥87 in 1942);
  • U.L.L. f/3.5 lens, Selon shutter, T, B, 5–300 (¥83 in 1941, ¥96 in 1942).

The Shinko shutter was certainly made by Shinkō Seiki, the same as on the Shinko Baby. The Selon shutter was made by Miyoshi. The advertisements were placed by the distributor Yamashita Yūjirō Shōten, which also distributed the Shinko cameras, and there is no mention of Miyoshi Kōgaku or Proud-sha.

Rangefinder conversions were offered in 1943 by Hakkōdō for the Semi Proud II and various other copies of the Ikonta or Nettar (see this page).

Notes

  1. ↑ Sakurai Eiichi, p.64 of Kurashikku Kamera Senka no.20.
  2. ↑ Tanimura, pp.1–2 of Camera Collectors' News no.116.
  3. ↑ Kokusan kamera no rekishi, p.340, mentions an advertisement in Asahi Camera June 1935. See also the advertisement on p.4 of Nihon Shashin Kōgyō Tsūshin June 1st, 1935, reproduced on p.22 of Hyaku-gō goto jūkai no kiroku.
  4. ↑ Advertisement on p.4 of Nihon Shashin Kōgyō Tsūshin June 1st, 1935, reproduced on p.22 of Hyaku-gō goto jūkai no kiroku.
  5. ↑ Advertisement reproduced in Kokusan kamera no rekishi, p.88.
  6. ↑ Advertisement reproduced in Kokusan kamera no rekishi, p.71.
  7. ↑ Advertisement reproduced in Kokusan kamera no rekishi, p.104.
  8. ↑ Advertisement reproduced in Kokusan kamera no rekishi, p.89.
  9. ↑ 1/400 top speed was standard at the time for Compur-Rapid shutters in #0 size. Kokusan kamera no rekishi, p.340, says T, B, 1–500 but this is surely a mistake.
  10. ↑ The advertisement in Nihon Shashin Kōgyō Tsūshin, June 1st, 1935, reads "F3.9", certainly by mistake.
  11. ↑ 11.0 11.1 11.2 Speeds: all the Semi Proud with Compur shutter known so far have T, B, 1–250 speeds. This was standard at the time for Compur shutters in #0 size. Kokusan kamera no rekishi, p.340, says T, B, 1–300 by mistake.
  12. ↑ The advertisement in Nihon Shashin Kōgyō Tsūshin, June 1st, 1935, reads ユーバーリ (yūbāri), certainly a misprint for ニユーバーリオ (nyū bārio, New Vario).
  13. ↑ The range of speeds for this version is unconfirmed, probably 5–150, B, T.
  14. ↑ The range of speeds indicated in the advertisement in Ars Camera September 1936 is 5–150, B, T.
  15. ↑ Mentioned as "newly available" (愈々発売).
  16. ↑ Kokusan kamera no rekishi, p.340, mentions an advertisement for the popular edition in Asahi Camera October 1935.
  17. ↑ PROUD Anastigmat: example observed in an online auction, lens number certainly in the 1xxx range. Proud Anastigmat: example pictured in this article, lens no.2877.
  18. ↑ U.L.L. Proud Anastigmat: example pictured in Inoue, p.131 of Kurashikku Kamera Senka no.14. U.L.L. Anastigmat: examples observed in online auctions.
  19. ↑ Example pictured in Tanaka, p.77 of Kurashikku Kamera Senka no.8, and example observed in an online auction.
  20. ↑ Example pictured in this article, and example observed in an online auction.
  21. ↑ Examples observed in online auctions.
  22. ↑ Example observed in a website which is now dead.
  23. ↑ Example observed in an online auction.
  24. ↑ Example pictured in Hibi, p.62 of Kurashikku Kamera Senka no.8.
  25. ↑ Example observed in an online auction.
  26. ↑ Example observed in Inoue, p.131 of Kurashikku Kamera Senka no.14.
  27. ↑ Example pictured in this article, example pictured in Sugiyama, item 1234, example formerly pictured in a page at Japan Family Camera (with non original accessory shoe, mistakenly called "Semi Proud II"), examples observed in online auctions.
  28. ↑ Example pictured in this page by Ranzōsha.
  29. ↑ Example observed in an online auction.
  30. ↑ Example observed in an online auction.
  31. ↑ Advertisement reproduced in Kokusan kamera no rekishi, p.89.
  32. ↑ Advertisement reproduced in Kokusan kamera no rekishi, p.89.
  33. ↑ Advertisement reproduced in Kokusan kamera no rekishi, p.89.
  34. ↑ The prices of the Rulex A, f/4.5 and Rulex B, f/4.5 versions are swapped in the advertisement, obviously by mistake.
  35. ↑ Kokusan kamera no rekishi, p.340.
  36. ↑ May and June 1939: advertisements published in Ars Camera, reproduced in Fujishima, p.24 of Camera Collectors' News no.42. February 1940: advertisement published in Asahi Camera, reproduced in Kokusan kamera no rekishi, p.90.
  37. ↑ Six options are listed in the advertisements, but the "Rulex B" and the "Rulex shutter (5–200)" (priced the same) are probable duplicates.
  38. ↑ Kokusan kamera no rekishi, p.340.
  39. ↑ "Kokusan shashinki no kōtei kakaku", type 3, sections 4A, 5A and 6B.
  40. ↑ Example observed in an online auction.
  41. ↑ Example observed in an online auction.
  42. ↑ Examples observed in online auctions.
  43. ↑ Example observed in an online auction.
  44. ↑ Example observed in an online auction.
  45. ↑ Example pictured in this article.
  46. ↑ Advertisement reproduced in Kokusan kamera no rekishi, p.90. It is the earliest advertisement mentioned on p.340 of the same source.
  47. ↑ Advertisement reproduced in Kokusan kamera no rekishi, p.90.
  48. ↑ An example of this version is pictured in Tanaka, p.77 of Kurashikku Kamera Senka no.8. The picture is probably taken from an advertisement.
  49. ↑ One example of this version is pictured in this page.
  50. ↑ Examples pictured in this page and in Sugiyama, item 1236.
  51. ↑ Advertisement published in Asahi Camera, reproduced in Kokusan kamera no rekishi, p.89.
  52. ↑ An example of this version is pictured in Sugiyama, item 1235, in Lewis, p.55 and in this page of the JCII collection.
  53. ↑ It is called "Super Semi Proud II" in Sugiyama, item 1237, and in McKeown, p.804, but it seems that it was simply called "Super Semi Proud", like the previous version.
  54. ↑ The earliest advertisement reported in Kokusan kamera no rekishi, p.340, is dated December 1938.
  55. ↑ Advertisement reproduced in Kokusan kamera no rekishi, p.90.
  56. ↑ An example of this version (lens no.8616) is pictured in Sugiyama, item 1237.
  57. ↑ An example of this version (lens no.10147) has been observed in a Chinese forum.
  58. ↑ "Kokusan shashinki no kōtei kakaku", type 3, section 9.
  59. ↑ "Kamera no kōtei kakaku kanpō happyō", November 1941, type 3, section 9.
  60. ↑ Dates of the two advertisements mentioned by Kokusan kamera no rekishi, p.340.
  61. ↑ "Kamera no kōtei kakaku kanpō happyō", November 1941, type 3, section 5A.
  62. ↑ October 1941: advertisement published in Shashin Bunka, reproduced in Kokusan kamera no rekishi, p.106. January 1942: advertisement published in Hōdō Shashin, reproduced in Kokusan kamera no rekishi, p.89.

Bibliography

Original documents

  • Camera Club. Saishin shashinki zenshū (最新写真機全集, All on the latest cameras). Supplement to the October 1936 issue. Advertisement on p.30.
  • "Kamera no kōtei kakaku kanpō happyō" (カメラの公定価格官報発表, Official announcement of the set prices of the cameras), November 1941. Extract of a table listing Japanese camera production and setting the retail prices, reproduced in "Bebī Semi Fāsuto 'Kore ha bebī wo nanotta semi-ki da'" (ベビーセミファースト"これはベビーを名乗ったセミ機だ", Baby Semi First, 'this is a Semi camera called Baby'), an article by Furukawa Yasuo (古川保男) in Camera Collectors' News no. 277 (July 2000). Nishinomiya: Camera Collectors News-sha. P. 27. Type 3, sections 5A and 9.
  • "Kokusan shashinki no kōtei kakaku" (国産写真機の公定価格, Set prices of the Japanese cameras), listing Japanese camera production as of October 25, 1940 and setting the retail prices from December 10, 1940. Published in Asahi Camera January 1941 and reproduced in Shōwa 10—40nen kōkoku ni miru kokusan kamera no rekishi (昭和10〜40年広告にみる国産カメラの歴史, Japanese camera history as seen in advertisements, 1935—1965). Tokyo: Asahi Shinbunsha, 1994. ISBN 4-02-330312-7. Pp.108—9. Type 3, sections 4A, 5A, 6B and 9.

Recent sources

Links

In Japanese:

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