Bolex C8 Movie camera

Bolex Paillard C8 (Doppio 8mm) – Unique Custom Edition "Mid-Century Graphic Design" – Durable Technical Material

An icon of Swiss cinema reinterpreted as a work of art and unique design
We offer at auction a splendid and unique example of Paillard Bolex C8 video/camcorder (made in Switzerland in the 1950s), famed for its precision mechanical engineering and compact body in cast metal and brushed aluminum.

This specific piece has undergone a professional, high-level customization: the original black faux-leather covering (often worn or degraded over time) has been replaced with a modern, high-resistance technical material that is water-repellent and durable.

Inspiration for the Pattern: Mid-Century Modern & Bauhaus Graphism
The new cover features a refined geometric and abstract pattern inspired by the great design of the 1950s and 1960s (Mid-Century Modern, Memphis/Bauhaus style):

Motifs and Shapes: Triangles, circles, star-like elements and cogwheels that metaphorically evoke mechanics and cinematic movement.
Color Palette: A vintage, très chic palette with tones of ochre, brick red, slate blue, gray and cream.
The final visual effect transforms a classic vintage video camera into a true object of art, fashion and interior design, ideal for enriching a private collection or as a prop in a scenographic set in a design studio or home.

Usability Today: The Magic of Analog Film
Unlike many purely decorative objects, the Bolex C8 is a machine with legendary, spring-driven mechanics (no batteries required):

Film Format: Uses Double 8 / Standard 8mm film, still widely available today (produced and distributed by specialized brands and labs like Foma, Wittner Cinetec, Film Photography Project or Kodak re-spooled).

Mechanical Operation: The spring-wind action and speed selectors operate with the typical fluidity and precision of Swiss Paillard engineering. A living object ready to deliver the authentic analog film cinema experience.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Brand / Model: Paillard-Bolex C8
Origin: Switzerland (Made in Switzerland / Fabrication Suisse)
Format: Standard 8mm / Double 8
Advancement: Mechanical manual wind (spring-driven)
Frame Rate (FPS): Adjustable from 8 to 64 frames per second (8, 12, 16, 24, 32, 48, 64 fps) for slow-motion or speed-up effects.
Shutter / Exposure: Integrated conversion table on the front (from 1/17s to 1/140s).
Viewfinder: Integrated in the body, clean and sharp.
Body / Finish: Aluminum and metal frame with custom vinyl/technical fabric printed in high definition.
Aesthetic Condition: Excellent (see detailed photos), polished chrome with very slight authentic signs of time attesting to its originality.
Mechanical Condition: The spring motor winds regularly and runs at the various speeds. (Sold as a collectible item usable with film).
Absolute Uniqueness: There is no other specimen like it in the world. It is a 1/1 piece.
Intersection of Passions: A perfect meeting point between cinematic/photographic collecting, fashion/lifestyle, and interior design.
Durability and Longevity: The applied technical material guarantees that the pattern will not fade or peel over time, keeping the camera looking great for years.