Finetta 35

Name/Title

Finetta 35

Entry/Object ID

189

Tags

Workhorse

Description

A distinctive German-made 35mm camera produced during the post-WWII recovery period. The Finetta is recognized by its unusual body shape and its reliance on a proprietary bayonet mount for interchangeable lenses, which was a sophisticated feature for a non-SLR consumer camera. Most models feature the Finetar 43mm lens, which provides a slightly wider perspective than the standard 50mm lens of the era. The camera utilizes a simple leaf shutter and often features a top-mounted accessory shoe and a manual film advance knob. Historically, the Finetta brand represents the entrepreneurial spirit of Peter Saraber, who established camera production in Goslar to compete in the burgeoning 1950s amateur photography market. Its "Made in Germany" pedigree and unconventional mechanical layout make it a favorite for collectors of European sub-variants. These cameras are known for their mechanical idiosyncrasies; because they used a unique lens mount, finding original wide-angle or telephoto lenses for this system is a challenge for modern collectors.

Category

Camera, Viewfinder, 35mm Film
Media Type

Made/Created

Manufacturer

Finetta-Werk (Saraber)

Date made

1949 - 1954

Accessories

Accessory

Finetar 43mm f/2.8 (or f/4) Lens