Kodak K-24

The Kodak K-24 is a World War II-era aerial reconnaissance camera. The record on it is part solid collector knowledge and part gaps. Historic Camera describes it as a rugged, fully automatic night aerial camera. It lacked the sophisticated electronics of other night cameras, but it was dependable in the field. It gave ground troops a way to photograph enemy gun flashes and other illuminated targets. The concept was simple: the shutter stayed open during flight, and the flash of an enemy artillery gun exposed the film. An intervalometer (spelled "intervelometer" in at least one period source) could also be set to trip the shutter automatically at intervals.

The K-24 saw service in both the European and Pacific theaters, and one source specifically ties it to the US Navy. A forum contributor with hands-on knowledge notes its role in photoreconnaissance of naval gunfire. It used 5×5-inch cut sheet film. It's a substantial piece of kit, about 7 × 7 × 10.5 inches and roughly 12 lbs.

Two lens variants turn up on surviving examples. Some units carry the Kodak 178mm f/2.5 Aero-Ektar (also described as a 7-inch f/2.5 Aerial). Others were fitted with a 12-inch f/5 Aero Ektar. Collectors hold the 7-inch f/2.5 in particular regard. One owner calls it "one of the sharpest lenses ever made," and another calls the 12-inch version "a gem" for image quality. The shutter is electrically operated and fully automatic, per the patent assigned to Eastman Kodak.

No exact production years, original price, or official Kodak specification sheet have surfaced. What is documented comes largely from owner accounts and forum posts. One warning recurs: the shutter can freeze up. It's a common problem on these units and it requires service. A good, working K-24 is said to be in high demand, but the market reflects the restoration risk. One example sat on eBay at over $2,100 for months with no action before dropping to $1,275.

Known specs:

- Film format: 5×5-inch cut sheet film

- Lens (variant 1): Kodak 178mm f/2.5 Aero-Ektar (7-inch f/2.5)

- Lens (variant 2): Eastman Kodak 12-inch f/5 Aero Ektar

- Shutter: Fully automatic, electrically operated

- Size: approx. 7 × 7 × 10.5 inches

- Weight: approx. 12 lbs

- Service: Used in WWII, European and Pacific theaters; US Navy