Cameras/identification
Advertisement
Question
hello , i inherited an old camera and have no idea of its worth and am worried about putting it up for sale whilst knowing very little about it, and seek help. it is a Zeiss Icon, compur. the body of the camera has 'Kolibri' stamped on it and it has a bit to screw into it and the leather case it also seems to be in working condition though im not sure of the age. can you help ? if so id be much appreciative thanks, monty
Hello Monty,
The Kolibri (model code 523/18) is an unusual compact "vest pocket" camera, made by Zeiss Ikon of Germany from 1930 to 1935, for 3 x 4 cm exposures on #127 roll film. It was meant to be an alternative small camera for people not interested in the new mechanically complex 35mm cameras of that time, while maintaining a relatively high level of photographic integrity. Current value in the collectible camera market depends primarily on what lens the Kolibri wears. Assuming truly excellent overall condition, with the simplest Novar lens you're looking at about $200-$225. With the f3.5 version of the Tessar lens, $250-$300. With the f2.8 Version of the Tessar, $300-$400. And there is a very rare variation, called the Night Kolibri, fitted with the f2 Biotar lens, that would bring $1200 or more.
Best wishes,
David Silver
- Add to this Answer
- Ask a Question
| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | very concise and useful information, so thanks very much david | ||
Related Articles
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:
©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.