Kodak Ektra II prototype *

Introduced in 1941 Kodak Ektra was the most advanced rangefinder 35mm in its time. It was the first 35mm rangefinder camera to have a parallax compensated viewfinder, the first rangefinder system to offer lens coating on all lenses, the first to offer lever advance and using a film rewind lever. The Ektra was also one of the most expensive cameras in its time - at 700USD it cost was an equivalent of a compact car. Because of low sale volumes only around 2500 cameras have been made and Ektra was discontinued in 1948. The planned Ektra II never went into a production – only a few prototype examples have been made and only three cameras are known to exist - serial numbers 7020, 7021 and here 7032 are recorded so far. A major difference planned for introduction with the Ektra II was provision for optional film back with spring-driven motor drive. With its high speed operation it forced Kodak engineers to upgrade the shutter with more robust and reliable parts. Several other improvements to the camera have also been made, like upgraded viewfinder, larger, more stable tripod mount, different markings on the speed selector dial etc. The offered camera is in excellent condition, with only minimal signs of age on the body. With Kodak Ektar 1.9/50mm no.ER275, film back no.AB3446 (engraved with ‘open-closed’ instead of the usual ‘lock-unlock’). The serial number ‘B-7032’ is engraved on the tripod mount. This is the first time a Kodak Ektra II is offered for sale in a public auction. It is a unique opportunity for every camera collector.