Cameras/Polaroid Land Camera Model 95
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Question
I just picked up a Polaroid Land Camera Model 95, I show a 1969 VW bus at car shows, I thiught this camera would fit the era, would you know what year that camera was from.
Thanks Wayne
Hi Wayne,
No, that's really not the right match. The Model 95 was Polaroid's first camera, and it was introduced in 1948. They sold zillions of the darn things into the 1950's, so they really don't have any value. In fact, virtually all Polaroid cameras are just about worthless today. No collectible interest, and really no usable value. The film for the Model 95 was discontinued in 1971. To match your 1969 VW, hmmmmm, I'd recommend a mid to late 1960's film pack Polaroid, the best example being the Polaroid 100, but there are plenty of other similar cheap models that are common fodder at flea markets for around $5-$10 each. However, if you REALLY want to evoke the "feel" of that time, I highly recommend finding a Polaroid Swinger camera. Once again, these only go for about $5, they're common enough at flea markets and such, and when you leave one of those on the seat of your VW, well, I guarantee people who grew up during that time are going to notice and say, "Hey, look at that, I had one of those!" Absolutely the perfect match!
Have fun!
Best wishes,
David Silver
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David Silver
Expertise
I'm an expert on all types of antique, classic, and contemporary cameras, as well as the general history of photography. Everything from ancient box cameras to modern single-lens-reflex; from simple Kodaks to sophisticated Leica and Nikon; from glass plates and roll film to movie and 35mm. I can identify and appraise them, explain how they work, and offer insights on their restoration and care. I can also provide historical background on vintage cameras and equipment, and guidelines on their purchase and sale.
Experience
I've been a professional photographer and a student of the history of photography for nearly 30 years. During that time my collection of vintage cameras and photographic paraphernalia has grown beyond 2000 significant pieces. I've published nearly 70 articles in the field, including 16 in the popular "Buying Classic Cameras" series for PHOTO SHOPPER MAGAZINE from 1995 to 1997, I'm currently a contributing editor for CAMERA SHOPPER MAGAZINE and McKEOWN'S PRICE GUIDE TO ANTIQUE AND CLASSIC CAMERAS, and I've written numerous entries for WORLD BOOK ENCYCLOPEDIA. Portions of my collection have been displayed in museums and special exhibits in the past two decades, and many of the items were photographed as illustrations for books. In 1985 I founded the International Photographic Historical Organization (InPHO), which eventually evolved into its intended purpose as the best first resource for information on the history of photography. I'm also a founding member of several e-mail forums dedicated to specialized areas of photography, and I'm the moderator of the Internet Directory of Camera Collectors (IDCC), which remains the largest and most successful such group in the world. For more information about the International Photographic Historical Organization and its many services, please visit its web pages at:
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