Agfa Billy Jgetar 8.8 (1928–1930)
Vertical folding bellows camera for 6×9cm medium format, made in Munich with fixed Igetar f/8.8 lens.
Overview
The Agfa Billy Jgetar 8.8 is a vertical folding bellows camera produced by Agfa Camera-Werk in Munich, Germany, from 1928 to 1930. It uses 120 roll film to produce 6×9cm negatives and was later renamed the Agfa Billy I in 1931, not to be confused with the post-war model of the same name. Also known as the Agfa Billy Jgetar 8.8 Luxus and referred to as the "Original Billy 1" by collectors, it belongs to the Agfa Billy series of cameras. The camera features a simple two-position focus set at 2m and 5m, with a focusing mechanism that sometimes jumps back to infinity on its own.
Specifications
| Lens | Igetar f/8.8 lens |
|---|---|
| Shutter speeds | B, 25, 50 & 100 |
| Aperture stops | 8.8 - 12.5 - 18 (3 stops) |
| Format | 6×9cm / medium format |
| Film type | Agfa Film B 2. 120 / uses 120 rolls |
Design
The Billy Jgetar 8.8 is a vertical folding camera with bellows, featuring a B shutter with locking capability and three aperture stops, with the option to select intermediate positions. The focusing system operates at two fixed distances—2m and 5m—and while the folding mechanism runs smoothly and the bellows appear light-tight, some units exhibit a tendency for the focus to jump back to infinity. The stand leg has minor play in some examples. The shutter and diaphragm are reported to function properly in tested units.
Context
The Agfa Billy Jgetar 8.8 was manufactured during the inter-war period and was rebranded as the Agfa Billy I from 1931 onward. It is part of the broader Agfa Billy series and is distinct from the post-war Agfa Billy I model.
Market
The camera is commonly sold as a vintage or decorative item, often without technical warranty due to age. Condition reports describe units as "Normal (with signs of use)" or "in reasonably good condition for its age" with a rating of 7 out of 10, showing typical wear. Known operational quirks include the focusing mechanism resetting to infinity and slight play in the stand leg.
eBay Listings
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.