Komaflex-S Failures

[OptiKen]

I like the 127 format and have several 127 roll film cameras. One of the ones that I see often on eBay and etsy is the Komaflex-S. Inevitably, these are listed as FOR PARTS - NOT WORKING yet still with a fairly high asking or selling price.

1-What is the allure of these cameras that brings the higher prices?
2-What is the main failure point of these cameras?

Thanks in advance

Ken

 

[moto-uno]

Overly aggressive film advancing tends to cause the winding failures . Scarce as chicken lips ( working examples ) .
The repairs tend to be expensive ( if you can find a repair person, maybe Ross Yerkes) , lots of labour and shortage
of parts ( aggrevated by failures involve the same components )
Peter

 

[ic-racer]

Have you seen one? It is cute, it is a "Baby Kiev." It is the only 127 SLR I can think of.

 

[GRHazelton]

I have a KomaFlex S bought new back in the day. Never had transport problems, but then I carefully read the manual. There are cautions about firing without film. Eventually the auto diaphragm refused to close down, with the current short supply and high cost of 127 film I really can't justify the repair cost.
The appeal? They handle nicely. The f2.8 lens is a Tessar formula, quite sharp. The Super Slides can be projected by an ordinary 35mm unit and are spectacular. I used mine for portraits, and the occasional wedding shoot, and fitted with closeup lenses excellent flower shots.