Ansco Admiral (1940s–1950s)

Name: Ansco ADMIRAL
Brand: Ansco

A compact twin-lens reflex-style camera made in Binghamton, NY, designed for 620 film and featuring a built-in yellow filter.

Overview

The Ansco Admiral is a camera produced by Agfa Ansco, described as a modern, compact, reflex-type camera with a plastic body and bright metal front trim. It is a variant of the 1950s Ansco Rediflex. The basic design is the same, and the styling is what sets them apart. The camera uses 620 roll film to make 2¼x2¼ inch images. It has a built-in yellow filter for more contrast and a viewfinder hood. It was marketed for general daytime photography, with Plenachrome film recommended. The Admiral was made in Binghamton, New York.

Specifications

Film Format	620 roll film
Image Format	2¼x2¼ inch
Lens	f-6.3 Anastigmat or f7.7 Anastigmat Viking Lens
Shutter	Instant and bulb settings
Body Material	Plastic
Special Features	Built-in yellow filter, viewfinder hood

Design

The Ansco Admiral has a plastic body with a bright metal front trim, which is the visible difference from the otherwise similar Ansco Rediflex. It has a viewfinder hood and is a pseudo twin-lens reflex camera, with a fixed lens and simple controls. The built-in yellow filter is part of the viewing system, so you can preview contrast in daylight.

Context

The Ansco Admiral was made in Binghamton, NY, during the 1940s–1950s and is considered a variant of the Ansco Rediflex from the same era. It reflects Ansco’s strategy of offering compact, stylish cameras to amateur photographers. While positioned as a modern reflex-type camera, it lacks compatibility with modern 120 film spools due to a narrow film compartment, limiting current usability.

Market

The Ansco Admiral has turned up in pre-owned listings described as in very good condition, with asking prices around $39. The narrow film compartment is a known limitation for modern 120 film, and getting around it takes modification or custom spools. Documentation is limited, and owners regard it as a classic piece of photographic equipment.