Balda Baldina B (1956)
A 35mm folding camera with built-in exposure meter, part of Balda's mid-1950s range using a shared body design.
Overview
The Balda Baldina B is a 35mm folding camera introduced in 1956. Manufactured by Balda, it was part of a broader family of cameras sharing the same body design, differentiated by features such as metering and focusing. The Baldina B stands out from other models in the line by including a built-in exposure meter, which occupies the second window on the top cover. It competed with established European folding cameras like the Kodak Retina and Zeiss Ikon Contina.
Specifications
| Lens options | Schneider Radionar 2.8/50; Schneider Xenar 2.8/50; Schneider Xenon 2.0/50 |
| Shutter options | Compur-Rapid 1 to 1/500, B (with lightmeter); Synchro-Compur 1 to 1/500, B |
| Exposure meter | Equipped with a Gossen light meter |
| Lens focal length | 50 mm |
| Lens mounting | Mounted on a helicoid |
| Lens extension mechanism | A small button on the front of the camera allows the user to release the lens tube spring and extend the lens |
| Manual operation | Only possible in flash setting and when changing DIN value |
Design
The Baldina B includes a Gossen exposure meter, with readings that must be manually set on both the shutter and lens. The second window on the top cover is dedicated to this meter. The lens is mounted on a helicoid and extends via a spring-loaded mechanism released by a button on the front.
Context
During the second half of the 1950s, Balda used a common body design for its 35mm folding cameras, offering multiple variants. The Baldina B was distinguished by its built-in exposure meter, while the Super Baldina added a rangefinder. The Baldina series marked Balda’s entry into the 35mm folding camera market and competed directly with the Kodak Retina and Zeiss Ikon Contina.
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