Agfa Record or Ikonta C

jmendez

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Joined
May 25, 2007
Messages
29
Location
riverview, f
Format
Medium Format
I am considering the purchase of one of these cameras. The Record has the Solinar and the Ikonta the Tessar. Both are of course 4 elements. Any overall opinions on these two fine cameras?

Thanks in advance
 

elekm

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Joined
Sep 12, 2004
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2,055
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New Jersey (
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35mm RF
All things being equal, it's a bit of a toss-up, because both should give you very good photos.

There are so many variables involved, especially with any Agfa:

  • Does it have plastic or leather bellows? The plastic bellows are notorious for developing pinholes.
  • Has the camera been serviced?
  • Does the front element focus smoothly or at all? Again, Agfa folders are notorious for using grease that through the years hardens into a cement.
  • Is this a zone focus or a rangefinder?

I've found the mechanics, particularly the rigidity of the struts, to be very good with both cameras.

Zeiss Ikon cameras in general were made to a high standard in choice of materials, design and quality of construction. An Ikonta C is a fine camera, especially one with a Tessar.

For either camera, there also is the question of a coated lens vs. uncoated lens, whether the shutter has been serviced or is stuttering on slow speeds.

Consider the ergonomics. Some Ikontas have a left-handed shutter release on the camera body, while with others you use the release that is on the shutter housing.

The Agfa Records have a right-handed release, which is more convenient for right-handed photographers.

I've not had a problem with a left-handed release, but some people don't like it.

As I said, if both cameras are in clean, working condition, it might come down to price. And then I would probably go with the less-expensive camera.
 
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