Kodak Retina 1b Analoge camera

Manufactured by Kodak AG at the historic Nagel factory in Stuttgart, West Germany during the late 1950s, the Retina Ib (Type 019) is a premium 35mm folding viewfinder camera. Part of Kodak's legendary high-end Retina series, the Ib model is celebrated for its exceptional mechanical precision, merging a self-erecting folding front bed with a highly pocketable and streamlined form factor. Unlike its meter-equipped siblings, the Ib relies on an uncompromised mechanical structure that collectors value for its minimalist aesthetic and reliable operation. Equipped with renowned Schneider-Kreuznach optics, this classic folding camera represents a high-water mark for mid-century German precision engineering.

KEY FEATURES

Classic self-erecting folding bed mechanism that completely protects the optics when closed

Ergonomic bottom-mounted rapid film advance lever for seamless mechanical operation

Premium West German construction using heavy-duty die-cast metal, chrome plating, and leatherette

Dual-indicator depth of field calculator dial integrated smoothly on the top plate assembly

Embossed classic Kodak Retina logo detailing across the rear leatherette cladding panel

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Camera Type: 35mm Folding Viewfinder Camera

Lens: Schneider-Kreuznach Retina-Xenar 50mm f/2.8 premium coated lens

Shutter Speeds: Synchro-Compur mechanical leaf shutter with settings from 1 second to 1/500th second plus Bulb (B)

Serial Number: Stamped on the cold shoe bracket plate: 167354; Lens serial number: 4757943

CONDITION REPORT

Cosmetic: Very good vintage condition with typical light signs of age and prior handling. The satin chrome plates show minor superficial scuffs. The black leatherette cladding is beautifully preserved, though the folding front flap has a very small section of peeling/wear to its corner profile. The bottom plate shows minor finish rubbing.

Optics: The Schneider-Kreuznach 50mm lens element appears clean and clear with light internal dust particles consistent with a vintage camera of this era. The viewfinder eyepiece is clear and completely functional for composition.

Mechanics: The front cover snaps open smoothly, and the folding bed locks securely into position. The bottom film advance lever winds correctly, and the Synchro-Compur shutter fires across the various speed settings, though slower speeds have not been timed for electronic precision.

Test status: This camera is being sold as a piece of photographic history and has not been fully calibrated or tested with film.

WHATS INCLUDED

Kodak Retina Ib 35mm folding camera

Original brown leather ever-ready carrying case with shoulder strap

Vintage shoe-mount accessory rangefinder unit in its respective hard protective case

WHY BUY THIS ITEM

Combining the legendary performance of a Schneider-Kreuznach lens with a wonderfully engineered folding design, this Kodak Retina Ib is a beautifully preserved mechanical jewel perfect for any vintage camera collection.

KEYWORDS

Kodak Retina Ib, Retina 1b, Schneider Kreuznach, Retina Xenar, Folding Camera, 35mm Film, Synchro Compur, German Engineering, Vintage Camera, Analog Collector, Pocket Camera