Agfa Record III (1952–1955)
A folding 6x9 medium format camera with uncoupled rangefinder, produced from 1952 to 1955.
Overview
The Agfa Record III is a vertical, self-erecting 6x9 medium format folding camera made by Agfa in Munich, Germany. It succeeded the Record II with the addition of an uncoupled rangefinder, operated via a knurled thumb-wheel on the top housing. The camera folds sideways into a compact form measuring 162 mm x 98 mm x 43 mm, with bellows that spring open when released by a button on the top plate. It produces eight 6x9 cm images per roll of 120 film, advanced via a red window on the back.
Two versions were offered: a standard model with a 105mm f/4.5 Apotar lens and Prontor-SV shutter, and a top-end version with a 105mm f/4.5 Solinar lens (Tessar design) and Synchro-Compur shutter with speeds up to 1/500 s. The model described here features the Solinar lens, Compur Rapid shutter, and double exposure prevention enabled by film winding.
Specifications
| Lens | Solinar 4.5/105 |
|---|---|
| Shutter | Compur Rapid, B T 1–1/500 |
| Aperture Range | f/4.5 to f/32 |
| Film Format | 6x9 cm on 120 roll film (8 exposures) |
| Focusing | Front-element focusing, minimum distance ~1m |
| Finder | Uncoupled rangefinder with distance dial |
| Flash | Cold shoe, sync at all speeds via cable |
| Weight | 707 g |
| Dimensions (closed) | 162 mm x 98 mm x 43 mm |
| Filter Size | 37mm push-on |
| Tripod Socket | ¼-20 (landscape orientation) |
Design
The Agfa Record III features a folding bellows design with a spring-loaded lens release. Pressing a button on the top left deploys the lens and bellows forward; closing requires pressing down on hinged supports until the body clicks shut. The leatherette exterior bears the Agfa logo and model name, with the lens and shutter concealed when folded. The uncoupled rangefinder uses a dial to set focus distance, manually transferred to the lens. A red window with an opening lever allows frame numbering visibility, and a small kickstand flips out for portrait orientation. The shutter must be manually cocked before each shot via a lever on the lens, triggered by an awkward linkage from the body-mounted release.
Context
The Agfa Record III was introduced in 1951 as the Billy Record III and renamed in 1952. It was the final Agfa camera in the 6x9 format and competed with advanced folding cameras like the Zeiss Super Ikonta. Positioned as a top-range 6x9 rangefinder, it offered high image quality in a lightweight, portable body. The Solinar-lens version represented the premium option, while the Apotar-equipped model provided a more affordable alternative.
Market
Originally priced at about £15, the Agfa Record III can now be found on secondhand markets for as little as £25. Common issues include brittle or cracked bellows, seized focusing mechanisms, non-functional shutter speeds, and light leaks through the orange film window—especially with ISO 200+ film in bright light. Some users apply black tape over the window to prevent fogging. Replacement bellows are available, and push-on 37mm filters are required due to lack of threaded mount.
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