Experience the mechanical purity of this authentic Vintage Ihagee Exa I 35mm SLR Camera, a classic piece of engineering from Dresden, East Germany. Produced in the early 1960s, the Exa I is celebrated for its streamlined, "bulletproof" design, serving as the more accessible sibling to the professional Exakta line. This specific model features the iconic interchangeable waist-level finder, offering a unique perspective and a deliberate approach to photography. Whether you are an analog enthusiast looking to master manual controls, a collector of Cold War-era technology, or seeking a striking industrial display piece, this Exa I is a superb choice. Key Benefits Dresden Heritage: A genuine artifact from the Ihagee factory, the birthplace of the 35mm SLR, representing a pivotal era in European optical history. Classic Triplett Optics: Equipped with the E. Ludwig Meritar 50mm f/2.9 lens, known for its vintage color rendition and soft, artistic rendering that modern digital lenses cannot replicate. Top-Down Composing: The removable waist-level finder (lichtkapzoeker) allows for discreet shooting and a unique compositional style, complete with a pop-up magnifier for critical focus. Mid-Century Aesthetic: Features a robust all-metal body with a timeless satin chrome and black leatherette finish, embodying the functionalist design of the 1960s. Features Camera Type: 35mm Single Lens Reflex (SLR) camera. Lens: E. Ludwig Meritar 50mm f/2.9 interchangeable lens with the versatile Exakta/Exa bayonet mount. Shutter: Reliable guillotine-style mechanical shutter with speeds of 1/25, 1/50, 1/100, 1/150 second, plus B (Bulb). Viewfinder: Interchangeable folding waist-level finder; can be swapped for a prism finder (not included). Film Format: Standard 35mm roll film (135 format). Build: Solid metal chassis, dual flash sync ports (M and X) on the front, and a traditional film advance knob. Condition Rated 4/5. This camera is in very good cosmetic condition for its age. The chrome finish is bright and clean with minimal surface wear. The black leatherette is fully intact and securely attached. All mechanical parts—including the film advance, shutter release, and the folding mechanism of the finder—operate smoothly. The Meritar lens optics appear clear to the naked eye, though minor internal dust or light haze consistent with a 60-year-old lens may be present. Please note that while the shutter fires at various speeds, it has not been tested for accuracy with film. The included leather case shows significant wear and age to the strap. Sold as a collectible/display item. What's Included Ihagee Exa I Camera Body (Serial No. 524036). E. Ludwig Meritar 50mm f/2.9 Lens (Serial No. 1389548). Integrated Folding Waist-Level Finder. Original Brown Leather "Ever-Ready" Carrying Case (Note: Case strap is worn). Why This Product? The Ihagee Exa I is more than just a camera; it is a mechanical survivor of the 20th century. It offers a tactile, fully manual experience that forces the photographer to slow down and appreciate the art of the craft. Its distinctive trapezoidal shape and top-down viewing make it a conversation starter, while its East German pedigree ensures it remains a cornerstone of any serious camera collection. Keywords Ihagee Exa I, Exakta mount, Ludwig Meritar lens, vintage SLR, East German camera, Dresden photography, 35mm film camera, collector's item, analog photography, waist-level finder, mid-century design.