Agfa Automatic 66 (1956)
The first medium format camera to incorporate an aperture priority auto-exposure system, using a selenium meter and pneumatic control system.
Overview
The Agfa Automatic 66 is a 6×6 medium format folding camera introduced in 1956 by Agfa. It uses 120 film to produce 6x6cm exposures and features a coupled rangefinder and a selenium light meter. The camera was part of a series of medium format folders that evolved from the pre-War Isolette, culminating in models like the Super Isolette and the Automatic 66. It shares many components with the Agfa Super-Isolette, including the lens, bellows, film transport, and rangefinder mechanism, but is larger and heavier.
Specifications
| Film Format | 120 film, 6x6cm exposures |
| Lens | 75 mm f/3.5 Agfa Color-Solinar, multicoated |
| Shutter | Prontor SVA |
| Shutter Speeds | 1 to 1/300 second, plus 'B' and automatic 'A' setting |
| Exposure Modes | Aperture priority auto (A), manual (M) |
| Meter Type | Selenium light meter with pneumatic metering |
| Focusing | Unit focusing, coupled rangefinder |
| Serial Number Example | U17190 |
Design
The Agfa Automatic 66 uses a part-electrical and part-pneumatic exposure mechanism based on a selenium light meter and a galvanometer, controlling a pneumatic shutter speed selector. The system adjusts shutter speed via a variable-diameter air port that acts as an escapement, with film speed and aperture settings biasing the meter output. This aperture priority auto-exposure system was the first of its kind in a medium format camera. The lens, the Agfa Color-Solinar, is a color-corrected Tessar-type design. The camera folds into a compact form with bellows construction and was patented by Durst (German patent DBP 923525). The automatic exposure system can be switched off for manual operation using the Prontor SVA shutter.
Context
The Agfa Automatic 66 evolved from the pre-War Isolette and was part of a line of medium format folding cameras in the 1950s, sharing core components with the Super-Isolette. It was never produced under the Ansco brand.
Market
The camera is considered rare and innovative, often found with non-functional auto exposure due to frequent failure of the selenium meter and galvanometer/coil assembly, which is difficult to repair or replace. Despite its collectibility, some users recommend operating the camera in manual mode to keep the mechanism functional. Anecdotal market prices range from ~$19 to $2,500, depending on condition and functionality.
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