Franka Solida I Analogue camera

Manufactured by Franka-Kamerawerk in Bayreuth, West Germany during the post-war era, the Solida I is a classic medium format folding camera designed for reliability and portability. Stamped on the back leatherette with "Made in Germany / U.S.-Zone", this particular variant dates back to the late 1940s or early 1950s during the Allied occupation. Engineered to provide large dual-format negatives (6x6cm and 4.5x6cm) on standard 120 roll film, the Solida I folds flat into a highly pocketable form factor when not in use. It is warmly appreciated by classic analog collectors for its robust mechanical design, smooth self-erecting bellows assembly, and distinct post-war historical context.

KEY FEATURES

Self-erecting folding design for ultimate medium format portability

Dual-format capability utilizing an adjustable red-window mechanism on the back cover

Historic "U.S.-Zone" post-war production stamping in the leatherette

Sturdy West German all-metal body construction with textured black grain cladding

Simple, reliable manual mechanical layout ideal for vintage workflows

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Camera Type: Medium Format (120 Roll Film) Viewfinder Folding Camera

Lens: Frankar Anastigmat 75mm f/6.3 coated triplet lens

Shutter Speeds: Rodenstock Vario leaf shutter with speeds of 1/25th, 1/50th, 1/200th second plus Bulb (B)

Serial Number: Lens and shutter markings are located on the front bezel rings

CONDITION REPORT

Cosmetic: Vintage condition showing obvious signs of age, long-term storage, and historical patina. Heavy dust accumulation is present throughout the bellows folds, struts, and inner door beds. The chrome top plate, cold shoe, and painted metal edges exhibit surface wear and oxidation consistent with a true estate find.

Optics: The Frankar Anastigmat 75mm lens shows internal dust, haze, and signs of age-related residue that would require cleaning for optimal photographic use. The folding optical viewfinder has internal dust but remains clear enough to frame compositions.

Mechanics: The folding door pops open smoothly when triggered. The shutter cocks and trips, though the slow speeds and overall mechanism are sluggish due to accumulated dust and would benefit from a basic service.

Test status: This camera is being sold as an uncleaned, historically interesting collectible piece and has not been tested with film or checked for light-tightness.

WHATS INCLUDED

Franka Solida I medium format folding camera

Vintage brown leather ever-ready carrying case (marked with a Zeiss Ikon logo from a previous pairing) with shoulder strap

WHY BUY THIS ITEM

Featuring the rare and historically significant "U.S.-Zone" production stamp, this Franka Solida I is an authentic post-war artifact that makes an excellent restoration project or a compelling addition to any German camera shelf.

KEYWORDS

Franka Solida I, Solida 1, Frankar Anastigmat, Folding Camera, Medium Format, 120 Film, US Zone Germany, Post War Camera, Antique Bellows, Vario Shutter, Vintage Analog, Collectible Camera