Argus Argus A (1936)
A simple, American-made 35mm camera that brought affordable photography to the public.
Overview
The Argus A is a 35mm camera introduced in 1936 by Argus, an American manufacturer. It was the first American-made 35mm camera to sell for less than $12.50, designed to make 35mm photography accessible to the general public. Built with a molded Bakelite body and a die-cast metal faceplate, it features an optical viewfinder and scale focusing. Its affordability and straightforward design helped popularize 35mm film in the United States.
Specifications
| Film format | 35mm |
| Lens | Argus anastigmat 50mm f/4.5 |
| Shutter speeds | 1/25, 1/50, 1/100, 1/200 sec, plus Bulb and Time |
| Viewfinder | Optical viewfinder |
| Focusing | Scale focusing |
| Body material | Molded Bakelite |
Design
The Argus A features a cast Bakelite body with a die-cast metal faceplate. The lens is mounted in a helical focusing mount, contributing to its simple and durable construction.
Context
Introduced in 1936, the Argus A was designed to bring 35mm photography to the masses at an affordable price. It was praised for its simplicity and accessibility, earning recognition as "the camera that democratized 35mm photography in America." Its success played a key role in popularizing the 35mm film format across the United States.
Market
The Argus A is prone to shutter issues due to degraded lubricants, which can cause sluggish or stuck operation. The Bakelite body is susceptible to cracking if dropped, and the viewfinder glass may become cloudy or desilvered over time. Despite these common problems, the camera is considered historically significant and collectible for its role in making 35mm photography widely available.
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