Kodak Bantam Special
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| Kodak Bantam Special, open and closed image by Rick Soloway (Image rights) |
The Kodak Bantam Special was the rangefinder-focusing, top-end model in Kodak's Bantam range, designed for 828 film.
It was produced in two series: From 1936 to 1940 using a Compur shutter; and from 1941-1948 with a Supermatic shutter, which is the rarer version.[1]. Kodak Ektar f/2 45mm lens. The focus lever must be pushed past the infinity setting to unlock the standard for closing. The case design by Walter Dorwin Teague is extremely striking; McKeown calls it "a masterpiece of art-deco styling" and Stephen Gandy of Cameraquest describes it as "one of the most beautiful camera designs ever".[2]
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| 1941 Supermatic shutter version; Art deco "speed whiskers" image by Dirk HR Spennemann (Image rights) |
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| With lens extended image by Dirk HR Spennemann (Image rights) |
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| Bantam Special side view, closed image by Dirk HR Spennemann (Image rights) |
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).
- ↑ Kodak Bantam Special at CameraQuest
Links
In English:
- Kodak Bantam Special user manual at Butkus.org
- The Bantam Special and 828 film, by Brian Wallen
In French:
