Kodak Retina Reflex Camera Value Guide

The Kodak Retina Reflex is a landmark 35mm camera, serving as the first Single-Lens Reflex model in the prestigious Retina line produced by Kodak AG in Stuttgart. It is highly collectible for its unique leaf shutter mechanism and exceptional German engineering that allows for full flash synchronization across all speeds.

What Is Kodak Retina Reflex Camera Worth?

The typical price range for Kodak Retina Reflex Camera is $130 - $150 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Mechanical functionality of the complex leaf shutter and the accuracy of the selenium light meter.
• Cosmetic condition of the leatherette covering and the presence of any 'Zeiss bumps' or corrosion on the aluminum body.
• Clarity of the German-made glass, specifically looking for haze, fungus, or scratches on the interchangeable front elements.
• Inclusion of original accessories such as the leather ever-ready case or additional 35mm and 80mm lens components.

How to Identify Kodak Retina Reflex Camera?

• Check for the 'Retina Reflex' engraving on the front plate and the 'Made in Germany' stamp on the leatherette.
• Verify the presence of the Synchro-Compur leaf shutter, which is integrated into the body rather than the lens.
• Inspect the lens for the Schneider-Kreuznach Xenon C or Rodenstock Heligon C branding, typical of these early units.
• Confirm the era by the fixed pentaprism housing and the bottom-mounted film advance lever.

History of Kodak Retina Reflex Camera

The Kodak Retina Reflex was introduced in 1956 as the first SLR in the successful Retina family of cameras made by Kodak AG in Stuttgart, Germany. It was notable for using a leaf shutter and interchangeable lens components, a departure from the focal-plane shutter SLRs common at the time. This system allowed for fast flash synchronization at all shutter speeds and maintained the high build quality associated with the Retina line.