Agfa Isomat Rapid C (1965)
A 1965 rapid film camera that takes 35mm-based square format cassettes. Easy loading and automatic exposure were the selling points.
Overview
The Agfa Isomat Rapid C (Model 2426) is a rapid film camera Agfa introduced in 1965. It uses the Rapid film system, which packs standard 35mm film into cassettes so loading is simple. A two-foot roll in a Rapid cassette gives 16 square images. The automatic exposure mode has a viewfinder indicator: a green light means exposure is sufficient, a red light means it isn't. The owner noted it gives good results in automatic mode and called it "a kinda interesting camera" with reasonably sharp images when used carefully.
Specifications
| Lens | 38 mm 3-element Color-Agnar f:4.5 |
| Focus System | Zone focus via symbols at the top of the lens or length scale at the bottom |
| Exposure Modes | Automatic and flash |
| Shutter Speed | 1/70 sec (automatic), 1/30 sec (flash) |
| Viewfinder Indicator | Green light = correct exposure; red light = incorrect exposure (in automatic mode) |
| Power Source | Selenium cell (no batteries required) |
| Film Format | Rapid film cassettes using standard 35mm film |
| Image Format | Square images |
| Images per Roll | 16 |
Design
The shutter won't operate unless the back is closed and film is loaded, so the camera can't fire by accident. The exposure system uses a selenium cell. It powers the light meter without batteries, and it still works in many surviving units.
Context
Agfa introduced the Rapid film system in 1964 to compete with Kodak's 126 film and Instamatic cameras. The aim was simpler film loading. Kodak's 126 format became far more popular anyway, and by the end of the 1960s Agfa was making 126 cameras itself. The Isomat Rapid C belongs to a broader family of Agfa Rapid film cameras, including the Iso-Rapid I, Isoflash-Rapid C, and Optima Rapid series.
Market
As of 2012, the Agfa Isomat Rapid C was commonly found on eBay for less than $10. A printed manual sells for $15.95, and a 1968 article on the Rapid cassette coding system is available for $4.80. Some users initially report shutter issues. These are typically due to the camera not being properly loaded or the back not being fully closed.
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