Agfa Optima Sensor 500 (1969 Series)
A fully automatic 35mm compact camera with motorized film transport and built-in flash, part of Agfa’s 1969 series of point-and-shoot cameras.
Overview
The Agfa Optima 500 Sensor is a 35mm compact camera produced as part of Agfa’s 1969 series. It features fully automatic exposure control via a CdS light meter and an electronic programmed shutter, making it a straightforward point-and-shoot camera. The camera has a built-in pop-up flash with automatic flash exposure, motorized film advance and rewind, and a backlight compensation button that adds +1.5 EV. Known for its simple operation, it was nicknamed "Big Red Button" in Hong Kong due to its distinctive red sensor point shutter release.
Specifications
| Lens | Agfa Color-Solitar f/2.8 40mm |
| Shutter | Electronic, programmed automatic |
| Exposure Control | Fully automatic, CdS light meter |
| Flash | Built-in pop-up flash, automatic flash exposure |
| Film Transport | Automatic motorized film advance and rewind |
| Power | Two AA batteries |
| Viewfinder | Bright-line viewfinder with parallax correction marks and low-light warning LED |
| Self-timer | Yes, with LED indicator |
| Backlight Compensation | Yes (+1.5 EV backlight button) |
Design
The camera has a black plastic body with a shutter release button described as a "red sensor point"—a round membrane made of red foil framed by a metal ring. The Optima Sensor series was designed for simple, intuitive use, emphasizing fully automatic operation without manual controls.
Context
The Optima Sensor 500 is part of the 1969 series of Optima Sensor cameras, which includes the Sensor 200 and Sensor 500. A later model, the Sensor Electronic, was released in the 1978 series.
Market
The most common issue is degradation of the foam light seals, which can become sticky over time and require replacement. The camera is prone to damage if mishandled due to aged materials. Replacing the light seals is a common and straightforward DIY repair, and users are advised to reset the frame counter after loading new film. Tested, working units typically sell for $20 to $50 USD.
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