Zeiss Pronto 500 LK Analogue camera

Zeiss Ikon Nettar 518/16 - Rare High-Speed Edition with Pronto 500 LK (c. 1950s)
Step into the world of medium format photography with this high-specification Zeiss Ikon Nettar. While the Nettar series was known as a reliable companion for the amateur, this specific unit is a rare find as it is equipped with the advanced Pronto 500 LK shutter. This upgrade allows for shutter speeds up to 1/500 sec—a performance level usually reserved for much more expensive professional cameras like the Ikonta or Super Ikonta. Produced by Zeiss Ikon in Stuttgart, it delivers expansive 6x6cm negatives on standard 120 film.

Key Benefits
High-Speed Performance: Features the advanced Pronto 500 LK shutter, offering a top speed of 1/500 sec for better action freezing and shooting in bright light.

Expansive Medium Format: Produces large 6x6 frames on standard 120 film, providing the legendary "depth" and resolution that analog enthusiasts seek.

Compact German Engineering: The self-erecting bellows system allows this robust medium format tool to fold down into a slim, pocketable profile.

Features
Camera Type: Folding Bellows Camera

Model: 518/16 (High-spec shutter variant)

Film Format: 120 Roll Film (6x6cm frames)

Lens: Novar-Anastigmat 75mm f/4.5

Shutter: Pronto 500 LK (High-performance leaf shutter)

Shutter Speeds: 1/15, 1/30, 1/60, 1/125, 1/250, 1/500 sec, plus Bulb (B)

Focusing: Manual front-cell focusing (scaled in meters)

Condition
Rated: 3/5

Cosmetic: The camera is in very good vintage condition. The satin chrome top plate is clean, and the black leatherette is well-preserved with clear "Zeiss Ikon Stuttgart" branding.

Bellows: Technical Detail: The exterior folds of the black leather bellows show some minor white oxidation/spotting (visible in photos 13118_2 and _3), likely due to long-term storage. The material remains supple and structurally intact.

Optics: The 75mm Novar lens is visually clear. As typical for a camera of this age, minor internal dust may be present. No major scratches or fungus were observed.

Mechanical: The shutter fires across the range, including the high 500 speed. The folding mechanism is snappy and locks firmly. The film advance and red window are functional.

Note: Sold as a high-quality collectible. While mechanically sound, it has not been tested with film for shutter speed accuracy or light-tightness.

What's Included
Zeiss Ikon Nettar 518/16 (Pronto 500 LK Edition)

Attached Original Leather Carrying Handle

Why This Product?
This is not your average Zeiss Nettar. The inclusion of the Pronto 500 LK shutter makes this 518/16 a highly desirable "user" camera for those who want medium format quality with the flexible exposure control of a professional shutter. Despite the minor storage marks on the bellows, it is a clean, honest, and technically superior example of German post-war craftsmanship—ideal for both the collector's shelf and the field.

Keywords: Zeiss Ikon, Nettar, 518/16, Pronto 500 LK, Folding Camera, Bellows Camera, 120 Film, Medium Format, 6x6, Vintage Camera, Novar-Anastigmat.