Leica Leicina 8SV
The Leicina 8SV is a German-made double-8mm movie camera from Leitz, introduced in the mid-1960s to replace the poorly-selling Leicina 8 V. The new body is lighter and better balanced. It has a Leicina Vario 7.5-35mm f/1.8 zoom lens and shoots at 16fps. The camera weighs 950g and focuses as close as 0.8m, with a 35mm filter thread.
Documentation on this model is thin and somewhat contradictory. Some sources describe the lens as fixed, while others claim interchangeable Leitz lenses. The lens is usually identified as a Leicina Vario, though at least one listing credits an Angenieux optic. Production years are variously given as 1962, 1964, and 1965. The listings agree on a few things: it takes double-8 roll film, it's fully automatic, and it was sold with an original carrying case.
Collector interest exists, but prices are modest. Four recorded sales show a median of £38 (range £13-£60), and one dealer currently asks €99. A parts unit with heavy battery-door corrosion recently sold for $85. The instruction manual is still available as a download for €4.70.
Known Specifications
- Film: Double-8 roll film
- Lens: Leicina Vario 7.5–35mm f/1.8
- Filming speed: 16 fps
- Minimum focus: 0.8m
- Filter thread: 35mm
- Weight: 950g
- Country of manufacture: Germany
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