Photo thanks to Stephen Chamberlain
[email protected]

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Folder Cameras FAQ

The AGFA Ventura cameras date from the 1950 period, and come in several major models.

The AGFA Ventura 66 is, as you would expect from the 66 in the name, a 6x6cm folder. This camera is closely related to the AGFA isolette V, and often featured a similar Agnar f/4.5 lens in a Vario shutter.

As an early mass produced post WWII camera, this camera doesn't command much collector interest. My personal take on folders is that if they don't have some major historical interest feature, or aren't made with Zeiss or Schneider or other prime optics, or were not pricey cameras to begin with, they rarely cost what most beginners might expect for such an "old" camera. Other useful factors indicating a pricey camera are shutter speeds extended on the fast and slow ends (e.g., not 1/200th as here, but to 1/250th or 1/400th or 1/500th, and up to 1 second on the slow end). You may usually find such cameras can be purchased for $25-50 US and up - depending as always on condition and buyer interest.

An AGFA Ventura Deluxe model had the better Apotar f/4.5 or Solinar f/4.5 lens in either the Prontor-S or Compur-Rapid shutter. Again, this post-war camera is similar to the Agfa Isolette II. The Deluxe version also had a means to block unintentional double exposures lacking on the non-deluxe model.

The Agfa Ventura 69 is, again as the 69 would lead you to expect, a 6x9cm rollfilm camera (presumably any 120 rollfilm). An Agnar f/4.5 or f/6.3 in the Vario or Prontor-S shutter is typical. The Agfa Ventura 69 is related to the Billy Record I.

And finally, the Agfa Ventura 69 Deluxe is a variant of the Ventura 69 with double exposure prevention, similar to the Agfa Billy Record II. A solinar f/4.5 lens in Compur shutter is typically found.

Photo Notes:

This Agfa Ventura is a nice example of a folder camera, featuring a Compur Rapid shutter B to 500th of a second, and the engraved inscription ''Made in Germany US Zone''. Thanks to Stephen Chamberlain (a fellow Texan ;-) for sharing this information and photo with us!

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