Sankyo 8-Y Analoge camera

The Sankyo 8-Y is a classic Japanese standard 8mm cine camera manufactured in the late 1950s by the renowned Sankyo Seiki Manufacturing Company. Representing the golden age of mechanical consumer filmmaking, this compact clockwork movie camera features an all-metal die-cast body, robust mechanical engineering, and a dual-lens turret system that made it popular among serious amateur filmmakers. Highly regarded for its mechanical reliability and elegant mid-century industrial design, it is a sought-after collectible for enthusiasts of vintage movie equipment.

KEY FEATURES

Precision mechanical spring-driven clockwork motor requiring no batteries

Rotating twin turret configuration allowing quick changes between standard and telephoto focal lengths

Variable film speed selector supporting multiple frames per second for standard and slow-motion filming

Continuous run and single-frame exposure modes for animation and titling

Manual footage counter with automatic reset function

Solid all-metal die-cast construction with classic textured leatherette covering

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Camera Type: Standard 8mm (Regular 8 / Double 8) cine camera

Lens: Sankyo Cine 13mm f/1.9 and Sankyo Cine 38mm f/1.9 turret lenses

Shutter speeds: Variable filming speeds (12, 16, 24, 32, 48 frames per second) plus single frame

Serial Number: 803158

CONDITION REPORT

Cosmetic: Very good vintage cosmetic condition with light traces of normal handling and minor paint wear on the edges consistent with age. Leatherette covering is complete and intact.

Optics: Both turret lenses are clear and clean, free from fungus, haze, or major scratches. Viewfinder optics are bright and intact.

Mechanics: Spring motor winds smoothly and runs strongly across all frame rate settings. Turret rotation rotates firmly and locks accurately into place. Aperture rings and focus dials move smoothly.

Test status: Fully mechanically checked and dry-tested; spring motor, shutter mechanism, and film transport run properly, sold as a tested collectible.

WHATS INCLUDED

Sankyo 8-Y standard 8mm movie camera body

Sankyo Cine 13mm f/1.9 lens

Sankyo Cine 38mm f/1.9 lens

Original metal take-up spool inside film chamber

Original wrist strap

WHY BUY THIS ITEM

A wonderfully preserved, fully functional piece of mid-century Japanese engineering that brings the tactile magic of mechanical 8mm analog cinematography straight into your collection.