Kodak Instamatic 814

Object/Artifact

-

The TRP Camera Obscura Collection

Name/Title

Kodak Instamatic 814

Entry/Object ID

615

Tags

Iconic

Description

While most people associate "Instamatic" cameras with cheap, plastic, fixed-focus toys, the 814 was the crown jewel of the line. It was designed for the serious amateur who wanted the convenience of the 126 cartridge but demanded high-quality optics and real control. It features a sharp, 4-element Ektar lens, a coupled rangefinder for accurate focusing, and a selenium light meter that controls the shutter speeds. The "Ektar" Distinction: The "Ektar" name was reserved for Kodak's professional-grade optics. Finding this lens on an Instamatic body makes the 814 the "black sheep" of the family—a high-performance tool wrapped in a consumer-friendly package. Pro-Level Controls: Unlike the vast majority of Instamatics, this model features a coupled rangefinder, allowing you to focus with genuine precision. It also offers manual shutter speeds (B, 1/60, 1/125, 1/250) set via the dial on the front, granting you legitimate creative control. Industrial Design: The heavy, metal-clad construction makes this feel significantly more substantial than the plastic 126 cameras of the era. It is a perfect bridge between your "plastic" collection and your "precision" collection.

Category

Camera, 126 Film, Project Analog
Media Type

Made/Created

Manufacturer

Kodak

Date made

1968 - 1970

General Notes

Note Type

Power

Note

Original Requirement: PX825 (Mercury-based). Modern Solution: The original mercury batteries are no longer produced. Many collectors successfully use a CR2032 lithium coin cell combined with a small stack of US nickels (or a dedicated adapter) to bridge the gap and provide enough voltage to power the CdS light meter.