My 1st Welta Welti

Jon Shumpert · May 31, 2020

I had an interesting week acquiring 3 vintage cameras. I found a Welta Welti, Kodak Retina Ia and Kodak Retina IIc at a local pawn shop. I have had several Kodak folding cameras, but had never owned or even seen a Welta. It seems to be in very good condition and the shutter speeds seem good except for the bulb setting. My question has to do with the approximate year it was manufactured. I can't find much information on Welti's. If anyone has information on the camera, please let me know. Thanks.

Peltigera · Jun 1, 2020

The lens was made in 1934 - the camera either that year or 1935 (assuming that the lens is the original).

Donald Qualls · Jun 1, 2020

Cameras built like this first appeared in the late 1930s, and a few were made into the 1950s. Compact and pocketable, but quite capable (the Tessar wasn't at its best in the f/2.8 version, but I've had few complaints from the one I own on a Super Ikonta B). I've got a very similar Balda Jubilette that was probably built in 1938.

I've heard it's possible to date CZJ lenses from their serial numbers.

Jon Shumpert · Jun 1, 2020

Thanks for the help. I am amazed at the build quality of the camera. I like using the older cameras more than many of my more modern ones. When I'm out taking photos, I often wonder what images it has captured over the years.

JPD · Jun 2, 2020

The nickel plating on the cameras of this period is beautiful. From around 1937 most cameras were chrome plated instead. This Welti is an early one, probably released not long after the first Retina and 135-film. The later chromed ones are more common. The 2,8/50 Tessar should be fine. The 2,8/60 Tessar on my Rolleiflex 4x4 is very nice. I have only heard complaints about the 2,8 Tessars in longer focal lenghts.

My 1st Welta Welti

Jon Shumpert

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