Kodak 110 (1972)
A compact pocket camera system using 110 film cartridges, introduced by Kodak alongside its new film format.
Overview
The Kodak 110 is a compact pocket camera system launched in 1972 with the introduction of Kodak's 110 film format. Marketed as a "pocketable" system, it was designed for everyday use and spontaneous snapshots by amateur photographers. The system's ease of use, particularly the drop-in film cartridge, simplified loading and helped drive widespread adoption. Over 25 million Kodak 110 cameras were produced in slightly under three years, establishing the format as a dominant force in consumer photography during the 1970s and 1980s.
Specifications
| Film format | 110 film, cartridge-based, 16 mm wide paper-backed film |
| Image frame dimensions | 13 × 17 mm |
| Typical exposures per cartridge | around 24 |
| Common film sensitivities | ISO 100 or ISO 400 |
Design
The Kodak 110 system used a drop-in cartridge that eliminated manual film loading, with pre-spaced frames indicated by numbers on the backing paper visible through a window. The design aimed to miniaturize the earlier 126 cartridge while maintaining user-friendly features. The 110 format used 16mm-wide film with a unique perforation pattern, housed in a compact cassette that allowed for smaller camera bodies. Some models featured built-in flash systems, including flip-flash sockets or electronic flashes with hot shoes.
Context
Kodak introduced the 110 format in 1972 as a response to popular 16mm cameras from Japan and Germany, aiming to gain a competitive edge through innovation and aggressive advertising. The 110 system quickly overtook the 16mm market, though it eventually lost ground to compact 35mm cameras due to limitations in image quality from its smaller frame size. Despite this, the format remained in production for decades,
eBay Listings
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.