Zeiss Ikon Nettar Analogue camera

Zeiss Ikon Nettar 518/16 - Classic 6x6 Folding Camera (c. 1949-1957)
Step into the world of medium format photography with the Zeiss Ikon Nettar. Known as a robust and reliable companion for the post-war amateur photographer, this model is a masterpiece of simplified German engineering. Using standard 120 roll film, it delivers expansive 6x6cm negatives that are prized for their detail and depth. This specific unit features the classic "Zeiss Ikon Stuttgart" branding, representing the quality manufacturing of the West German era.

Key Benefits
Expansive Medium Format: Produces large 6x6 frames on standard 120 film, offering significantly higher resolution and "depth" than standard 35mm cameras.

Compact Folding Design: The self-erecting bellows system allows the camera to fold down into a slim, pocketable profile for easy travel and storage.

Tactile Mechanical Experience: A fully manual camera that rewards the user with the tactile process of unfolding, setting the exposure, and cocking the shutter.

Features
Camera Type: Folding Bellows Camera

Model: 518/16 (Standard version)

Film Format: 120 Roll Film (6x6cm frames)

Lens: Novar-Anastigmat 75mm f/4.5

Shutter: Pronto leaf shutter

Shutter Speeds: 1/25, 1/50, 1/100, 1/200 sec, plus Bulb (B)

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

Self-Timer: Integrated into the Pronto shutter mechanism.

Condition
Rated: 3.5/5

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

Bellows: Important Note: The exterior folds of the black leather bellows show some minor white oxidation/spotting (visible in detailed photos), consistent with age and storage. The bellows remain supple and appear structurally sound.

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

Mechanical: The shutter fires across the various speed settings. The folding mechanism snaps open and locks firmly. The film advance and frame-counting red window on the back are functional.

Note: This item is sold as a functional collectible. While the shutter is operational, it has not been film-tested for precise timing accuracy.

What's Included
Zeiss Ikon Nettar 518/16 Folding Camera

Attached Original Leather Carrying Handle

Why This Product?
The Zeiss Ikon Nettar 518/16 is the perfect entry point for anyone looking to experiment with 6x6 medium format without the bulk of a TLR. Despite minor cosmetic aging on the bellows, this specific unit is a very clean example of Stuttgart's post-war production. It serves as both a handsome display piece of German industrial design and a functional tool for intentional, slow-paced analog photography.

Keywords: Zeiss Ikon, Nettar, 518/16, Folding Camera, Bellows Camera, 120 Film, Medium Format, 6x6, Vintage Camera, German Engineering, Stuttgart, Novar-Anastigmat.