Agfa Agfamatic (1973)
Compact 110 film camera series with mechanical operation and innovative "Ritsch-Ratsch" film advance, introduced by Agfa-Gevaert in 1973.
Overview
The Agfa Agfamatic is a series of compact cameras produced by Agfa-Gevaert, first introduced in 1973. Designed for the 110 cartridge film format, it was among the first third-party cameras made for Kodak's 1972 "pocket" film standard. Marketed as a simple, reliable snapshot camera, the Agfamatic line targeted amateur photographers and became particularly popular in Germany during the 1970s. The series includes both 110 and 126 film models, with the 110 Pocket Sensor variants like the 2000, 2008, and 4008 being the most recognized. Higher-end models such as the Agfamatic 4008 tele pocket sensor featured dual-lens systems and advanced shutter controls.
Specifications
| Film Format | 110 cartridge |
|---|---|
| Lens (typical model) | Fixed-focus 26mm f/9.5 |
| Shutter Speeds (typical model) | 1/50s & 1/100s |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 1.2 meters |
| Focus Type | Fixed focus |
| Flash Connection | Supports flip-flash (later models, e.g., 2008) or flash cubes (earlier models) |
| Power Source | No batteries required; fully mechanical operation |
| Film Transport | Manual via opening/closing camera body ("Ritsch-Ratsch" system) |
| Picture Format / Negative Size | 13 x 17 mm |
| Dimensions (typical) | 113 x 53 x 27 mm |
| Weight | Approx. 160–170 grams |
| Agfamatic 4008 Tele Lens Focal Lengths | 27mm (normal) and 47mm (telephoto) |
| Agfamatic 4008 Tele Aperture | f/5.6 |
| Agfamatic 4008 Tele Shutter Speed Range | 1/1000s to 15 seconds |
| Agfamatic 4008 Tele Flash | Uses flip-flash (8 bulbs) |
Design
Designed by Schlagheck & Schultes, the Agfamatic series features a mix of metal and plastic construction and introduced Agfa’s distinctive "Ritsch-Ratsch" film advance system, where opening and closing the camera body advances the film. The camera is known for its oversized red "Sensor" shutter release button. Higher-end models include a special hot shoe for Agfalux electronic flash units, and telephoto variants like the 4008 feature a viewfinder that changes with lens selection.
Context
Agfa was the first third-party manufacturer to support Kodak’s 1972 110 film format, launching the Agfamatic Pocket Sensor line in 1973. The series spanned multiple models across 110 and 126 formats, with later versions like the 2008 and 4008 upgrading from flash cubes to flip-flash units. Some models were rebadged for retailers, such as the Revue Pocket 50. The Agfamatic 4008 tele pocket sensor represented the upper tier of the 110 lineup, offering variable shutter speeds and dual lenses.
Market
The Agfamatic series originally sold for 105 Deutschmarks (about 60 US dollars). It won the iF Product Design Award in 1974, reflecting its innovative mechanical design and user-focused features.
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