Agfa Isomat Rapid (1965)
Simple 24x24 square-format camera using Agfa's Rapid film system, released the year after the format's 1964 launch.
Overview
The Agfa Isomat Rapid is a compact camera made by Agfa in 1965, designed for use with the company's Rapid film system. It captures 16 square 24x24mm images from two feet of bulk film loaded in a Rapid cassette. The camera uses a selenium cell for exposure metering, requiring no batteries, and features automatic and flash exposure modes. A lever on the upper-right side of the lens selects between modes, with automatic mode using a fixed 1/70 shutter speed and flash mode using 1/30. The viewfinder includes a green light for correct exposure and a red light for underexposure when the shutter is half-pressed, along with red/blue tabs to indicate exposure status.
Specifications
| Lens | 38 mm 3-element Color-Agnar f:4.5 lens |
| Focus System | Zone focus via symbols at top of lens and distance scale at bottom |
| Exposure Modes | Automatic and flash |
| Shutter Speed (Auto) | 1/70 |
| Shutter Speed (Flash) | 1/30 |
| Power Source | Selenium cell, no batteries needed |
| Film Format | 16 square images from two feet of bulk film in a Rapid cassette |
| Film System | Rapid film system |
| Image Format | 24x24 square format |
| Exposure Control | Selenium meter |
| Viewfinder | Simple, with red/blue tabs to indicate underexposure |
| Flash | Hot shoe; aperture selectable for flash, shutter speed 1/30 |
Design
The Isomat Rapid uses a plastic construction and loads film via a Rapid cartridge, which lacks a central spindle and is shorter than standard 135 cassettes. The camera only works with Robot-type or Rapid cassettes, and the shutter fires only when a cassette is loaded. A metal plate in the cassette sets the film speed for compatible cameras. Film is protected if the camera back is opened mid-roll.
Context
The Rapid film system was introduced by Agfa in 1964 as a response to Kodak’s 126 film and Instamatic cartridge, aiming to offer easier loading than standard 35mm. The system descended from the 1930s Karat system and competed directly with Kodak’s 126 format, though it was ultimately eclipsed by it. By the late 1960s, Agfa shifted to selling 126 cameras, and the Rapid cartridge is now discontinued.
Market
The shutter will not fire unless the camera is loaded with a film cassette and the back is closed. As of 2012, working models were often available on eBay for less than $10.
eBay Listings
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