Agfa Isoly 100 (1980–1986)
Basic 35mm viewfinder camera made in Spain, designed for simplicity and reliability with fixed focus and manual film advance.
Overview
The Agfa Isoly 100 is a small, entirely plastic 35mm viewfinder camera produced from 1980 to 1986. Manufactured in Spain by Certex S.A. for Agfa, it was designed for accessible, straightforward photography. The camera features a fixed-focus Agfa Isitar Special 42mm f/8 lens with a hyperfocal range of approximately 2m to infinity, making it ideal for candid shots and daylight use. It offers three shutter speeds—1/100, 1/60, and 1/50—selected via symbol-marked dial, with a hot-shoe for external flash. The design closely resembles the Agfa Iso-Rapid C and the Certex Werlisa Club Color, suggesting shared tooling or surplus component use.
Specifications
| Lens | Agfa Isitar Special 42mm f/8 |
| Aperture | Fixed at f/8.2 |
| Shutter Speeds | 1/100, 1/60, 1/50 (flash sync at 1/50) |
| Film Format | 135 / 35mm (24x36mm) |
| Viewfinder | Direct optical viewfinder |
| Flash | Hot-shoe for accessory flash |
| Filter | Includes 81a filter |
| Construction | Entirely plastic |
| Dimensions | Approx. 120 x 75 x 60 mm |
| Weight | Approx. 200g |
| Finish | Silver or black lens ring |
Design
The Isoly 100 is constructed entirely of plastic, with a simple rear cover for manual film loading and visual guides to assist alignment. Film advance is via a toothed wheel offering tactile feedback, and the mechanical frame counter is visible on the top plate. The camera’s body and lens design mirror those of the Agfa Iso-Rapid C, and it includes an 81a filter for enhanced color balance in daylight conditions. The Agfa Paratic shutter provides three speed options indicated by symbols, and the fixed-focus system is optimized for zone focusing from 2 meters to infinity.
Context
Launched in 1980, the Isoly 100 responded to rising demand for easy-to-use 35mm cameras. It shares design traits with the Certex Werlisa Club Color, leading to speculation that it may have utilized surplus components from discontinued models. The camera influenced simplified designs like Kodak’s Instamatic line and was described as one of Agfa’s best creations and a beloved model of its time.
Market
Units in good condition typically sell for 20–50 euros. One collector reported purchasing a unit for £10 plus shipping. The camera is considered hard to find and not available in mainstream retail. A printed instruction manual is available for $15.95, and restoration services are offered by some sellers, including disassembly, cleaning, and technical adjustments.
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