Kodak Instamatic X-35

Object/Artifact

-

The TRP Camera Obscura Collection

Name/Title

Kodak Instamatic X-35

Entry/Object ID

427

Tags

Relic

Description

The Kodak Instamatic X-35 was a step up from the base "X" models, featuring a CdS light meter for automatic aperture control. Unlike the simpler X-25, which had fixed mechanical settings, the X-35 uses its battery-powered meter to adjust a rotating disc of apertures behind the lens, ensuring better exposure in varied lighting. It retained the iconic "Magicube" socket for battery-free flash firing and offered two focus zones: a close-up setting for 2–6 feet and a standard setting for 6 feet to infinity. While the camera is a fascinating example of early consumer automation, it is primarily a display relic today due to the discontinuation of 126 film and the reliance on obsolete 3V mercury batteries, which now require modern button cell workarounds to activate the metering circuit.

Category

Camera, Viewfinder, 126 Film
Media Type

Made/Created

Manufacturer

Kodak

Date made

1970 - 1976

Other Names

Name Type

Model

Other Name

Instamatic X-35

General Notes

Note Type

Power

Note

3V PX30 (Mercury) / Modern equivalent: 2x G13/LR44 Button Cells (with shim)