Agfa Optima Parat - The "Pro" Half-Frame with Compur Shutter The Agfa Optima Parat, introduced in 1963, is a sophisticated entry in the world of 35mm half-frame cameras. While most half-frame cameras were designed as simple "snapshots," the Optima Parat was built to much higher standards, featuring a high-quality four-element Solitar lens and the precision of a Compur leaf shutter. By capturing two images on a single standard 35mm frame (18×24mm), it allows for 72 exposures on a 36-exposure roll—effectively doubling your creative output. Wrapped in a sleek, brushed-aluminum body with a distinctive "clamshell" selenium meter, it represents the peak of Agfa’s compact engineering. Key Benefits Double the Photos: Captures 72 shots on a single 36-exposure roll, making it the ultimate economical choice for travel and street photography. Premium Compur Shutter: Unlike cheaper shutter systems, the Compur unit provides smooth, reliable, and precise timing for sharper results. Fully Automatic Exposure: Features Agfa’s pioneering "Magic Eye" selenium meter that automatically adjusts exposure, allowing you to focus entirely on composition. Features Camera Type: 35mm Half-Frame Viewfinder Camera Film Format: 35mm (18×24mm frame size) Lens: Agfa Solitar 30mm f/2.8 (four-element Tessar type) Shutter: Compur leaf shutter, integrated with the exposure system Exposure System: Fully automatic selenium-controlled exposure (no batteries required) Focusing: Zone focusing with four icons (portrait, group, landscape) and a meter scale Viewfinder: Large, bright optical finder with parallax correction marks Body: Brushed aluminum top and bottom plates with textured black grip Condition Cosmetic (Rated 4/5): The camera is in excellent vintage condition. The brushed aluminum finish is very well-preserved with minimal surface marks. The leatherette is tight and clean. Optical: The Solitar lens is clear and free from fungus or significant scratches. The viewfinder is bright, making framing easy and accurate. Mechanical: The shutter fires correctly. The film advance (lever wind) is crisp, and the zone-focusing ring turns smoothly. The selenium light meter reacts to light, though its calibration has not been film-tested. Note: This item is sold as a professional collectible. While mechanically operational, it has not been tested with film for light-tightness or automation accuracy. What's Included Agfa Optima Parat Camera Body Original Agfa Soft Leather Zippered Pouch Original Braided Wrist Strap Why This Product? The Optima Parat is one of the few half-frame cameras that feels like a professional tool rather than a toy. Its solid metal construction and high-end Solitar lens make it a standout choice for the analog enthusiast who wants to experiment with the vertical half-frame format without compromising on image quality. This specific unit, complete with its original pouch and strap, is a beautifully preserved example of mid-century West German design. It’s an ideal companion for the modern street photographer looking for a stylish, pocketable, and highly efficient film camera. Keywords: Agfa, Optima Parat, Half-Frame, 35mm Camera, Solitar Lens, Compur Shutter, West Germany, Vintage Film, Analog Photography, 72 Exposures. Pro Tip: Because it's a half-frame camera, the viewfinder is oriented vertically. To take a "normal" horizontal landscape photo, simply turn the camera 90 degrees!