Certo Dollina 0 (1936–)

A compact 35mm folding camera introduced as a low-cost model in Certo's mid-1930s lineup.

Overview

The Certo Dollina 0 is a 35mm folding camera introduced in 1936 as part of Certo's Dollina series. It was the low-cost model in the lineup, with simple construction and basic functions. The chassis is a strut-folding, self-erecting metal one, with a molded bakelite bed covered in leatherette. There is no body focusing, and no mechanical linkage between the shutter and the rest of the camera. Certo was expanding its portfolio, and the Dollina 0 was the entry-level option next to the mid-range Dollina I and the high-end Dollina II, which had more advanced shutters and lenses.

Specifications

Format	35mm
Lens options	Certar 5cm f/4.5 with Automat 25-100, Certar 5cm f/4.5 with Vario 25-100, Certar 5cm f/4.5 with Pronto 200, Certar 5cm f/2.9 with Compur 300
Lens element count	3 element lenses
Focusing type	front cell focusing
Shutter options	Automat, Vario, Pronto, Compur 300 (as per lens combinations)
Film transport	left-to-right
Frame counter	on the top plate
Sprocket wheel	oddly has only three teeth
Rewind release	operated by pulling out the advance knob and turning it back clockwise a partial turn, where it latches
Viewfinder	a simple reverse-telescope, built unobtrusively into the top plate at the left side
Shutter release location	on the shutter body
Tripod bushing	on the bottom left. It is not the modern standard size

Design

The chassis is a compact, sturdy metal strut-folding design that erects itself. The bed is molded bakelite covered in leatherette. A catch above it on the front of the camera releases it. There is no body focusing mechanism. The shutter works on its own, with no mechanical linkage to the camera body.

Context

Certo introduced the Dollina 0 in 1936 as the low-cost version of its Dollina series of 35mm folding cameras. The company was spreading out its portfolio. The Dollina I sat in the middle as the mid-range model. The Dollina II was the high-end option, with Compur Rapid shutters, coupled rangefinders, and premium lenses like the Xenon f/2.

Market

One listed example is described as "VGC, small repair on the back. Complete and all working" but is marked "*PART OR REPAIR*".

eBay Listings

Certo Dollina 0 vintage camera equipment - eBay listing photo 1

✅ CERTO DOLLINA 0 35MM CAMERA STEINHEIL 50MM 2.9 CASSAR LENS

$53.11

See all Certo Dollina 0 on eBay

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