Agfa Billy Compur (1934–1949)
Folding 120 film camera that makes eight 6×9 cm images per roll. Two versions were built, one pre-war and one post-war.
Overview
The Agfa Billy Compur is a folding 120 film camera. It makes eight 6×9 cm images per roll. Agfa built it in two versions: the first from 1934 to 1942, and a second from 1948 to 1949. Production of the first version stopped during World War II, when German industry moved to wartime manufacturing. The Billy series began in 1927, and the Billy Compur sits in Agfa's line of 120 folding cameras.
Specifications
| Film Format | 120 film |
| Image Size | 6 x 9 cm |
| No. of Images | 8 |
| Lens (First Version) | Anastigmat Apotar f/4.5 |
| Lens (Second Variant) | Solinar f/4.5 |
| Focal Length | 105mm |
| Focus Type | Variable |
| Focal Range | 3ft - ∞ |
| Aperture Type | Iris |
| Apertures | f/4.5 - f/32 |
| Shutter Type | Compur shutter |
| Shutter Speeds | T, B, 1s to 1/250s |
| Size Open | 105 x 160 x 127 mm |
| Size Closed | 85 x 160 x 35 mm |
| Weight | 670g |
Design
The Billy Compur is a folding-bed camera with self-erecting bellows and a metal body. The first version has a top-plate viewfinder. The second moves the viewfinder and shutter release to the bottom plate and adds double-exposure prevention. The pre-war model has raised chrome strips and glossy black enamel on the side panels, with lacquered sides. You focus by turning the front lens element. To close the camera, pinch the two circular plates beneath the lens to unlock the front standard, then fold it. The Compur shutter has no flash synchronization, which fits its pre-war design. The second variant dropped the Art Deco styling of the original and has a more subdued finish.
Context
The first version of the Billy Compur was discontinued during World War II, when industry retooled for military production. The post-war variant, built from 1948 to 1949, has a Solinar lens and a revised layout. The core specifications stayed the same. The Billy series began in 1927 and ran through various models until 1960.
Market
Pinholes in the bellows are a common problem, especially in the corners. Agfa used low-quality materials at the time. Many users report bellows degradation, though some units turn up with intact bellows. The focusing mechanism can stick from old grease. Lighter fluid applied over several days takes care of it. The shutter's self-timer tends to stick, so handle it carefully. If it does stick, Ronsonol or naphtha may free it. The shutter cocking lever may need extra force to close, because it touches the left side arms. WD40 is explicitly advised against for repairs. On some units the shutter release lever is misaligned. Loosen the retaining ring and rotate the whole shutter unit to correct it.
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