Kodak 1a Pocket Folder with Stylus
Photo thanks to Chip Middleton
[email protected]
My main interest in the Kodak #1A series of folder camera is for use as a panoramic camera. Eastman Kodak produced a number of
variations of this very popular camera. The folding Pocket No. 1 (2 1/4" x 3 1/4"
on 120 film) and No. 1A (2 1/2" x 4 1/4" on #116 obsolete film) came in various
series and types. These cameras were mass produced, with modest optics, and are
plentiful on the used market. So despite their age (1926-32 typically), they are
very cheap used, often only $10 to $20.
Their low cost and large size makes them
interesting for use in homebrew panoramic conversion projects.
You can also possibly use the #1A versions with respooled #116 film (e.g., from Film for
Classics or other sources), or with a film adapter to let
you use cheaper 120 rollfilm directly.
This #1A Pocket Kodak was made between 1926-31. It is unbelievable how nice of shape this camera is in (NM). It incorporates the Autographic feature. Also the stylus is still with the camera! It took 2 1/4 x 4 1/4 on 116 film. The handy work on this folder is beautiful. Kodak did not just stretch some leather on this, but crafted it all around the camera with different grains and sections. Even on the bed between the rails without the camera bellows extended there is a round raised letter emblem that says KODAK. While I am on the bed there is a range scale to focus with. It has a Kodar f 7.9 131mm lens and a Kodex No 1 shutter (T,B.25,50).