Exakta Varex 2a Analogue camera

Brief Description
Prestigious vintage photography set composed of a 35mm SLR Ihagee Exakta Varex IIa (made in Dresden, GDR) with a pozzetto viewfinder decorated. The set includes the original lens, metal hood, filters and accessories, all housed in its rare original leather rigid case (“Ever-ready case” pozzetto model) with beige velvet interior and strap.

Weight (in kg)

Net weight (items): about 1.6 kg (the Varex IIa is known for its solid all-metal construction).

Shipping weight (including packaging): about 2.5 kg. It is advisable to allow a shipping range up to 5 kg to permit double protective packing.

Dimensions (in cm)

Only case: about 18 x 15 x 22 cm.

Finished package footprint: about 35 x 30 x 25 cm. A generously oversized box is essential to leave at least 5 cm of cushioning material (bubble wrap or polystyrene chips) on every side.

Material

Camera: Steel, chrome brass and leatherette finishes.

Case: Genuine hammered leather exterior, interior lining in suede/velvet, leather straps.

Color

Camera body: Silver (chrome) and black.

Details: Viewfinder and front/rear body decorated with artistic motifs.

Case: Cognac brown / Tan.

Shipping Method
Tracked and insured shipment via international express courier (e.g., UPS, DHL or FedEx). Insurance is strongly recommended given the mechanical fragility and collectible value of the item.

Brief Description
A classic of Dresden German engineering: the Exakta Varex IIa (also known as VX IIa) is a legendary 35mm SLR produced by Ihagee. Famous for its left-hand control layout and modular design, this model features an interchangeable viewfinder and a focal-plane shutter. A must-have piece for enthusiasts of mechanical precision and the history of mid-century photography.

Weight
Approximately 0.95 kg (Body with standard lens) / 0.70 kg (Body only)

Dimensions
15 cm x 9.5 cm x 8 cm (Includes lens)

Materials
Chromed brass and high-quality aluminum alloy, with renewed finishes.

Color
Classic Chrome Silver and Black.

Shipping Method
The item will be shipped via tracked and insured express courier (e.g., UPS, DHL or PostNL). The package will be carefully prepared in a double-wall box with protective bubble wrap to ensure safe delivery.
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A Masterpiece of Photography and Design: Exakta Varex IIa "Cultural Heritage"
Secure a unique piece of photography history. This is not just a vintage camera, but an artisanal restoration of the legendary Exakta Varex IIa, meticulously curated to celebrate the cultural and artistic era of its origins.

Vision and Design
This project stems from an in-depth study of the cultural landscape of the mid-20th century. The camera features a unique aesthetic motif inspired by the arts—music, literature and theater—with evocative Cyrillic typography (Культура - Culture, Искусство - Art). After evaluating several graphic options, this specific design was chosen for its perfect harmony with the machine’s iconic chrome lines.

Craftsmanship of Excellence
Unlike mass-produced coverings, this restoration involved:

Complete Preparation: Total removal of the aged original vulcanite to guarantee a clean and stable base.

Material Innovation: Extensive tests were performed on various substrates. The final choice fell on a high-quality technical material that offers superior tactile feel and durability, far surpassing ordinary adhesive papers or plastic laminates.

Precision Engineering: Each piece was applied by hand using custom-designed masks to ensure a perfect integration with the front controls and the rear plate.

Mechanical Condition
Tested and Working: The camera is not only striking for display but a functional tool for the analog photographer.

Clean Mechanics: Shutter speeds, film advance, and the iconic pozzetto viewfinder are all in good operating condition.

Optics: The mirror and inner camera are clean and well preserved.

Why this Exakta? Standard Exaktas are common, but a piece of art with this level of historical research and finish is unique in the world. It is the perfect addition for a high-end collection or an extraordinary and functional accessory for street photography and gallery display.

Technical Specifications
Model: Exakta Varex IIa (Ihagee Dresden)

Format: 35mm SLR (Reflex)

Finish: Custom technical fabric named "Culture & Art".

Includes: Body, lens, original case, colored filters, light meter, additional lenses, ND filter, original metal strap (as shown in photo).

Behind the Lens: A Fusion of History and Design
Treating every camera not just as a tool, but as a piece of Mechanical Archaeology. My work focuses on a selection of 20 cameras from different eras and nations, each representing a specific chapter in the history of photography.

My approach:

Cultural Research: I go beyond mere decoration. I study the cultural, artistic and social context of the origin country to create an authentic and coherent design (e.g., Soviet Constructivism, Bauhaus, Art Deco).

Materials Science: I go beyond simple stickers. My process includes rigorous testing—from laminate papers to high-end non-woven fabrics—to ensure a durable tactile experience and superior aesthetics.

Mechanical Integrity: I work only on cameras worthy of use. Each unit is cleaned, tested and restored to be a reliable companion for use.

The last 2 photos show elasticity, tear resistance, abrasion and cut tests, as well as the adhesion resistance of the decorated surface and the water- and oil-repellent treatment.

Shipping: Worldwide professional shipping with tracked and insured courier. The camera will be packed with extreme care to preserve the artisanal finish.

Return and Security Policy:

Security Marks: To protect against fraud (internal parts swapping), this camera has been internally marked with invisible security ink and all serial numbers are registered.

Return Conditions: Returns are accepted only if the item is returned in exactly the same aesthetic and mechanical condition as when shipped.

Tampering: Any attempt to disassemble or tamper with the internal mechanics or the customized external finish will void the return policy.

Inspection: All returns are inspected by a technician before issuing a refund.