Kodak Signet 35 (1951–1958)

A full-frame 35mm rangefinder camera with a coupled rangefinder and a 44mm f/3.5 Ektar lens, produced by Eastman Kodak Company as their top American-made 35mm model of the 1950s.

Overview

The Kodak Signet 35 is a 35mm rangefinder camera made by Eastman Kodak Company from 1951 to 1958. It was the first model in the Signet series and represented Kodak’s flagship American-built 35mm camera during its production run. The camera features a coupled rangefinder for accurate focusing and uses 135 film with options for 20- or 36-exposure magazines, producing full-frame 24 x 36mm negatives. It has a precision-built aluminum body, described as sturdy and completely new for its time, contributing to its reputation for durability and ease of use. The Signet 35 was designed to deliver image quality on par with the finest cameras of the era.

Specifications

Film Format	135 film (20- or 36-exposure)
Negative Size	24 x 36mm
Lens	Kodak Ektar 44mm f/3.5
Lens Design	Tessar-based
Focus	Rear helicoid focus
Rangefinder	Coupled rangefinder
Shutter	Kodak Synchro-Rapid 800 Shutter
Body Material	Aluminum
Weight	1 lb 3 oz
Dimensions	With lens recessed: 6 3/8 x 4 1/4 x 4 1/2 inches
Original Parts Booklet Date	April 1955

Design

The Kodak Signet 35 features a completely new metal body constructed from sturdy aluminum, emphasizing durability and precision engineering. Its design prioritizes reliability and ease of use, with a rear helicoid focus mechanism and a high-quality Tessar-based Ektar lens mounted in a robust chassis. The camera was built to deliver results comparable to the finest 35mm cameras of its era.

Market

An Original Parts Booklet for the Kodak Synchro-Rapid 800 Shutter, specifically for the Kodak Signet 35 Camera, is available for $12.00 in "EX" condition, indicating ongoing collector interest in service documentation. While the original retail price of the camera is referenced in multiple sources, discrepancies exist between $91 and $95, preventing a definitive value from being reported.