Kodak Retina Automatic III - Precision West German Engineering with Coupled RangefinderThe Kodak Retina Automatic III (Type 039), produced between 1960 and 1963 by Kodak AG in Stuttgart, Germany, represents the sophisticated peak of the fixed-lens Retina series. While the "Automatic" name highlights its advanced shutter-priority selenium exposure system, the "III" designation signifies the inclusion of a high-quality coupled rangefinder, providing critical focusing accuracy that set it apart from its simpler siblings. Built with the "over-engineered" density and satin-chrome elegance characteristic of West German manufacturing, the Retina Automatic III is a tactile masterpiece, offering a refined, battery-free mechanical experience for the discerning analog enthusiast.Key BenefitsCoupled Rangefinder Accuracy: Features a bright, integrated rangefinder for precise manual focusing, essential for capturing sharp images at wider apertures.Premium Schneider-Kreuznach Optics: Equipped with the legendary $45\text{mm}$ f/2.8 Retina-Xenar lens, world-renowned for its exceptional sharpness, contrast, and color fidelity.Intelligent Exposure System: Offers both fully automatic shutter-priority mode and full manual override, allowing for effortless snapshots or total creative control.FeaturesCamera Type: 35mm Coupled Rangefinder CameraLens: Schneider-Kreuznach Retina-Xenar $45\text{mm}$ f/2.8Shutter: Compur-Special leaf shutterShutter Speeds: 1/30s to 1/500s plus Bulb (B)Exposure Mode: Shutter-priority automatic or fully manualLight Meter: Built-in Selenium cell (coupled to the shutter/aperture system)Viewfinder: Large, bright-line finder with "Red/Green" exposure signal and rangefinder patchFilm Advance: Signature underside-mounted rapid winding leverBody: All-metal chassis with satin chrome finish and premium black leatheretteConditionCosmetic (Rated 4/5): The camera is in excellent vintage condition. The satin chrome plates are bright and clean. The black leatherette is fully intact, secure, and shows minimal signs of use.Optical: The Retina-Xenar lens is clear and free from visible fungus or significant scratches. The viewfinder is bright, and the rangefinder focusing patch shows good contrast.Mechanical: The shutter fires across all speed settings. The underside film advance lever operates with the smooth, high-precision feel typical of the Retina line. The selenium meter reacts to light, though its absolute accuracy 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 shutter speed accuracy.What's IncludedKodak Retina Automatic III Camera BodyOriginal Brown Leather Ever-Ready Case (marked "Kodak," showing classic vintage character)Why This Product?The Retina Automatic III is a "jewel" of the Kodak Stuttgart era. It combines the legendary optical performance of Schneider glass with the mechanical reliability of a Compur shutter, all housed in a body that fits comfortably in the palm of your hand. For the collector, it is a must-have example of 1960s precision; for the photographer, it is a stealthy, silent, and incredibly sharp tool for street and travel photography. Complete with its original protective case, this Retina is a beautifully preserved piece of photographic history.Keywords: Kodak Retina, Automatic III, Schneider-Kreuznach, Retina-Xenar, West Germany, Rangefinder, 35mm Film, Analog Photography, Compur Shutter, 1960s Design.