Certo Dolly Model B (1934–1937)
A folding camera made by the German company Certo, using 127 roll film to produce 3x4 cm exposures.
Overview
The Certo Dolly Model B is a folding camera produced by Certo, a German manufacturer established in Dresden in 1902. Built during the company's golden age in the 1930s, this model was made from 1934 to 1937. It uses 127 roll film to capture 16 exposures per roll, each measuring 3x4 cm. The camera was designed for manual operation, with film advance and shutter cocking handled separately. Certo was known for its folding cameras and medium format box models, and the Dolly line represented part of their compact offerings for roll film.
Specifications
| Film Format | 3x4 cm |
| Film Type | 127 roll film |
| Exposures per Roll | 16 |
| Product Type | folding camera |
Context
Certo Camera-Werk flourished in the 1930s, a period considered its golden age, before being devastated by the Allied bombing of Dresden in 1945 and the subsequent dismantling of its equipment by Soviet forces. Reorganized as VEB Certo under East German state control, the company eventually became part of VEB Pentacon by the 1960s, leading to the decline of the Certo brand. The Dolly Model B emerged during the peak of Certo’s independent production, alongside other notable lines like the Dollina 35mm folding rangefinders introduced in the mid-1930s.
Market
A freshly serviced example of the Certo Dolly Model B was listed for $245.00 USD, reflecting current collector interest in well-maintained units.
eBay Listings
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.