Kodak K-100 (c. 1955–1973)

Name: Kodak K-100
Brand: Kodak

A 16mm non-reflex movie camera, available in single-lens and three-lens turret versions.

Overview

The Cine-Kodak K-100 is a 16mm motion picture camera made by Eastman Kodak Co. A three-lens turret version followed in 1956. It is a spool-loading, non-reflex camera with interchangeable C-mount lenses from 15mm to 152mm. Frame rates are adjustable from 16 to 64 fps, and 24 frames per second is typical. Two models exist, the single-lens and the K-100 Turret, and Kodak developed specialized tools to service each. The K-100 Turret stayed in production until 1973.

The Patterson-Gimlin film, a famous piece of controversial footage, was shot entirely on a Cine-Kodak K-100. The viewfinder uses an objective lens assembly with a reticle. With a 25mm viewfinder lens fitted, the subject appears at full size. The camera has both a motor drive shaft and a hand crank.

Specifications

Film Format	16mm
Frame Rate	16–64 fps (adjustable), typically 24 fps
Lens Mount	C-mount (lenses from 15mm to 152mm)
Viewfinder	Objective lens with reticle; subject appears full size with 25mm viewfinder lens
Dimensions (Turret Model)	260 × 145 × 118 mm
Weight (Turret Model)	2715 g
Operation	Motor drive shaft and hand crank
Reflex Type	Non-reflex

Design

The K-100 moves film with a mechanical transport: a pull-down claw, a sprocket and a pressure pad. An aperture plate and stop cam handle frame registration. The viewfinder optics can be adjusted to match the taking lens. Service takes specific alignment tools. Gauge #906 sets claw protrusion, #910 and #911 set take-up torque, and #916 is the precision frame line gauge used at the Rochester facility. The turret version has a three-lens rotating mount, so you can change lenses without taking the camera off the tripod.

Context

It may have been the last camera introduced in the Ciné-Kodak series. The repair bulletin ASRI #13 (1955) centralized service through Kodak's Apparatus Service Department in Rochester. The camera came with a field case, and dedicated tools and spare parts were distributed across domestic divisions.

Market

Current listings for the K-100 Turret include $750 USD and £599.95. Known problems are speeds out of adjustment, claw engagement trouble, film scratches from the notch mechanism, and misaligned frame lines. These often trace back to improper film loading or lack of lubrication. Claw protrusion, take-up torque and finder alignment all need specialized gauges to repair properly.