The Rise, Fall, and Resurrection of the 110 Cartridge Format
By 2009, 110 was kaput. But in 2011, Lomography brought it back!
Part 2: A selection of fascinating 110 cameras from the classic era.
By Jason Schneider
The overwhelming majority of the 75+ million 110 cartridge cameras turned out by Kodak and competing European and Asian camera manufacturers between 1972 and the early 2000s were point-and shoots ranging from simple fixed focus models to scale focusing cameras with basic feature sets. However, there was also an active “niche market” consisting of more advanced 110 cartridge cameras aimed at serious shooters, including rangefinder models with fast lenses, zoom SLRs--even a complete miniature SLR system with interchangeable lenses! Many of these models are ingenious, brilliantly executed, and amazingly competent given the inherent limitations of the 13 x 17mm format. The great news is that this fascinating class of 110 cameras has now been transformed into (mostly) affordable user-collectibles thanks to Lomography, the fun-forward company that single-handedly rescued 110 from the brink of obscurity and now provides a wide range of 110 films, new 110 cameras, and support services. To give you a clearer idea of what’s ingenious, intriguing, and out there on the used market here’s our splendiferous selection of seductive 110s complete with tech data and estimated prices.
Kodak 110’s Inventor of 110 Film
Kodak Pocket Instamatic 20: A member of the original group of U.S. made Kodak Pocket Instamatic cameras Kodak announced in 1972, and in production until 1976, the Pocket Instamatic 20 is fitted with a 25mm f/9.5 triplet lens made entirely of molded optical plastic, and it has a two speed (1/100 sec, plus 1/40 sec with Magicube inserted) mechanical shutter. When the sliding lens cover is shut, the shutter release isn’t locked, but a warning flag appears in the brightline viewfinder. The flag also warns when a used bulb is in the Magicube socket. The camera’s focus s fixed at 5 feet and unlike many basic cameras it has a tripod socket. The Pocket Instamatic 20 measures 4.4 x 2.2 x 1.1 inches (L x W x H) and originally sold for $28.00.
Pocket Instamatic 20. A low-end model that performs amazingly well.
While its specs may seem pedestrian, its optical performance is anything but. When Modern Photography magazine field tested the Kodak Pocket Instamatic 20 against the posh ultraminiature Italian GaMi-16, a motorized rangefinder camera with a 6-element, 4-group 25mm f/1.9 Galileo Esamitar lens (which also provides a 13 x17mm format, but on 16mm roll film) the Pocket Instamatic 20 acquitted itself remarkably well, equaling and occasionally s surpassing Officine Galileo’s masterpiece. That same great triplet lens can also be found on the Kodak Pocket Instamatic 30 and there’s a slightly faster f/8 version on the Kodak Pocket Instamatic 40.
If you want to blow your photo enthusiast friends away with the amazing performance of what is little more than a fixed focus 110 box camera, you can snag a clean working Kodak Pocket Instamatic 20 online for as little as 10 bucks and there are scores to choose from.
Kodak Pocket Instamatic 60 Rangefinder: The top-of-the line model in the original series of 110 Pocket Instamatic cameras Kodak introduced in 1972, it sports a superb 4-element, 3-group, 26mm f/2.7 Ektar lens that focuses down to 3 ft. using the camera’s excellent coupled superimposed image rangefinder, and employs an electronically controlled leaf shutter with speeds of 10 to 1/250 sec. Both the shutter speed and aperture are automatically set by the non-TTL CdS cell metering system. The bright optical finder has a projected field frame line plus used bulb and long shutter time (below 1/30 sec) warnings. The camera uses a 2-stroke thumb advance, includes a socket for self-powered, auto-rotating Magicubes with automatic exposure control for flash distances from 4 to 30 ft. and features plastic construction with metal body panels. The slimline Pocket Instamatic 60 measures 5.6 x 2.1 x 1.06 inches (W x D x H) and originally sold for $128.00. Note: This camera was one if several Pocket Instamatics (models 30, 40, 50, 60 and Trimlite) that was powered by Kodak’s long discontinued 4.5v “K” battery. While replacements are no longer available, a few enterprising individuals on eBay now offer 3D printed exact size replacement “shells” that can be fitted with three readily available LR44, type 357, or SR44 button cells to get your above-listed camera (and others) up and running. Not the last word in convenience perhaps but it’s a one-time purchase and can be refilled with fresh button batteries whenever they’re needed.
Rare Kodak Pocket Instamatic 60 Deluxe in black chrome was released in 1973.
One result of the” K” battery kerfuffle is that used, untested Pocket Instamatic 60s are readily available at giveaway prices. If you’re willing to take a chance, and then purchase a 3D printed replacement “K” battery you can probably acquire a functional Kodak Pocket Instamatic 60 for well under 50 bucks all in. Worth it? Let’s just sat that it’s an outstanding camera with a great lens.
Just in time for Christmas 1973 Kodak unveiled Pocket Instamatic “60 Deluxe” in black chrome trim rather than standard chrome trim, and it’s drop dead gorgeous. The first 110 camera in black chrome (though preceded by the black chrome Leica M5 in 1971) it’s quite rare and eminently collectible. However you probably won’t have to shell out a fortune to own the only one on your block—there’s a pristine example of the “60 Deluxe” currently listed in eBay at a paltry Buy It Now price of $79.00 plus shipping!
Kodak Ektramax: Sophistication for the Illuminati. Kodak went all in with TV star Michael Landon promoting the Ektramax in full page magazine ads for low light with its 27mm F1.9 aspheric lens. Today on ebay those ads live on with Michael Landon Ektramax full page magazine ads for sale outnumbering the Ektramax camera!
“The Kodak Ektramax camera shoots just about anything your eye can see.” “Imagine the pictures you can get with a fast f/1.9 lens and ASA 400 film in a camera you can take virtually anywhere.’
In production between 1978 and 1981, this innovative U.S.-made high-spec camera is considered by many to be Kodak’s top-of-the-line 110 even though it lacks a rangefinder or a built-in metering system—a manual 4 ft. to infinity focusing scale atop the camera is mirrored in the viewfinder along with a set of distance symbols, and a top-mounted a sliding switch lets you select manual exposure settings. It’s clearly a camera aimed at knowledgeable connoisseurs.
2-page-spread ad for Kodak Ektramax f/1.9 pocket camera; details on 2nd page.
The Extramax’s signature feature is its fast, high-performance 4-element 25mm f/1.9 lens, constructed of 3 molded plastic elements and one aspheric element; it may be the first aspheric lensed mass-produced camera. The camera’s large, bright frame line viewfinder is claimed to show 110% of the picture area, has parallax correction marks, and displays focusing aids and exposure data so you can adjust the camera without taking it down from your eye. Selecting one of four “weather” symbols changes the shutter speed, f/stop and flash in combination. For ISO 100 film, the star (*) setting (Sunny) gives an exposure of 1/175 sec at f/8, the EX (Extra exposure) setting gives you 1/125 sec at f/4, the XL (Long exposure) setting gives you 1/100 sec at f/1.9, and the Z (Flash) setting gives you 1/30 sec at f/1.9 and fires the flash. Using ISO 400 film applies the same f/stops, but at faster shutter speeds. The Ektramax’s tiny built-in flash, powered by two AAA batteries, has an effective range of 20 ft. with ISO 400 film, and recycles in a blistering 2 seconds! The Ektramax handles extremely well--the shutter release is precise and predictable, the focusing slider is well positioned and has a very smooth action, and its built-in sliding lens/viewfinder cover can’t be misplaced. With its classic slimline 110 form factor, the camera measures 1-3/16 x 6-5/8 x 2-3/16 inches (H x W x D) and weighs in at a mere 6.4 oz. without batteries. Original list price: $87.50, rather pricey at the time.
Ad for Kodak Ektramax is clealy pitched at sophisticated shooters.
While the Ektramax was produced in reasonable numbers and is not considered a low-production model, as of this writing none are currently offered for sale on eBay, Etsy, or any of the other major online auction sites. Actual selling prices for Ektramax cameras within the past year run in the $25 to $50 range.
Kodak Tele-Ektra 1 and 2: For 1978 this was great technology, two built in lenses for a simple inexpensive camera -- simple, economical dual-lens 110 cameras manufactured from 1978 to 1981 both have a top slider that lets you switch between normal and telephoto lenses, and the linked viewfinder shows the matching field of view. Both models have Luminized (coated) lenses that can capture reasonably sharp pictures from 5 ft. to infinity. The Kodak Tele-Ektra 1 was made from Feb. 1978 to Feb. 1981, has a 2-element 22mm f/9.5 normal lens, a 45mm f/11 telephoto, and 3 shutter speeds—1/60, 1/125, and 1/210 sec. It measures 1-1/4 x 6 x 2-7/16 inches (H x W x DO) and weighs in at 6.7 oz. The Kodak Tele-Ektra II was made from Feb. 1978 to Jan. 1980, has a 3--element 22mm f/5.6 normal lens and 44mm f/5.6 telephoto lens and has a 4-speed mechanical shutter with speeds of 1.60, 1/80, 1/250, and 1/500 sec. it measures 1-3/6 x 5-3/16 x2-1/8 inches ( H x W x D) and weighs in at a mere 4.7 oz.
Kodak Tele-Ektra had 22mm f/5.6 normal and 44mm f/5.6 telephoto lenses.
The bright dual viewfinder parallax-correction marks, displays focusing symbols, and shutter speeds--1/60 sec when using a Flipflash or a Kodak Ektra Electronic Flash. Despite their modest specs, the Kodak Tele-Ektra 1 and 2 are competent, versatile, walk-around cameras capable of delivering satisfying results albeit not quite at the level of more sophisticated models. Since prices for clean working Kodak Tele-Ektras (either model) currently run around S15-$25, the The Kodak Tele-Ektra II is clearly the preferred shooter’s choice.
110 SLRs – alas only 4
Only the mind of Minolta produced TWO 110 SLRs. Only the mind of Pentax produced system 110 SLRs with interchangeable lenses.
Minolta 110 Zoom SLR: Minolta’s original flat form zoom SLR, one of the first 110 cameras of its kind, was in production from 1976 to 1979, Taking its form factor from the typical 110 pocket camera, it has a 25-50mm f/4.5 Zoom Rokkor Macro lens (roughly equivalent to a 50-100mm lens on a 35mm camera) that cam focus down to 11 inches and has click stops to f/16. Its external CdS cell provides aperture-priority metering and +/-2EV exposure compensation in] 1EV steps, but there’s no fully manual exposure. A metal-bladed, behind-the-lens, electronically controlled shutter provides stepless speeds of 10 to 1/1000 sec plus B and a mechanical X-sync speed of 1/150 sec. A short-stroke thumb lever advances the film quickly, and it’s powered by two S-76 silver-oxide batteries. An eye-level porro-meter viewfinder shows 85/% of the on-film area, has a central microprism, and yellow LEDs in the finder indicate shutter speed, slow speed and over-range warnings, mechanical settings, and battery condition. The compact Minolta 110 Zoom SLR measures 2-1/8 x 4-1/4 x 5-1/4 inches (H x D x W) and weighs in at 15-1/8 oz. A very capable picture-taker with an excellent lens, viewing/focusing system, and convenient controls, this distinctive camera is widely available used at prices ranging from $35-70.
Original Minolta 110 Zoom SLR had a flat body in the 110 tradition.
Minolta 11O Zoom Mark II: Released in 1979 as an upgraded successor to the poor-selling Minolta 110 Zoom SLR, it’s the most versatile and capable of the breed and one if the best all-in-one 110 cameras ever made. Configured as a downsized version of a 35mm SLR, the Mark II features a 12-elenent, 10-group 25-67mm f/3.5 Zoom Rokkor-Macro lens (the 35mm equivalent of a 35-135mm lens) that can focus down to about 7.7 inches (0.19x magnification) using a swing-in closeup element. Its fixed eye level pentaprism finder shows 85% of the on-film image (068x magnification at 25mm; 1.74x at 67mm) and has a split image focusing spot centered in a matte field, plus 5 LED shutter speed readouts from 1/60 sec and other warnings on the left side. Its metal-bladed transverse shutter provides electronically controlled speeds of ¼ to 1/1000 sec with mechanical X (1/125 sec) and B settings and has an electromagnetic release. The camera provides TTL center-weighted aperture priority autoexposure using a pentaprism mounted CdS cell (EV 5.6 to EV 17) plus exposure compensation of +/- 2EV, and is powered by two EPX-76 or S-76 cells with a front-mounted LED battery check. The Minolta 11O Zoom Mark II measures 4.5 x 3.0 x 4.0 inches (W x H x D) and weighs in at 17.0 oz without batteries. A great choice for 110 enthusiasts, a used Mark IIs in pristine working condition currently fetches about $110 to $160 and they’re not easy to find.
Minolta 110 Zoom SLR Mark II had improved specs, and a 35mm-SLR-style body.
Pentax Auto 110 and Auto 110 Super: Ironically, Pentax brought forth the Pentax Auto 110 in 1979, when the 110 format was already in decline. However, this audacious little camera (along with the mildly upgraded Auto 110 Super of 1982) is the only true system SLR based on the 110 cartridge format, That system includes an impressive line of interchangeable mini bayonet mount f/2.8 Pentax-110 lenses ranging from two 18mm wide-angles, a 24mm standard lens, a 50mm medium tele, a 70mm telephoto, and a 20-40mm zoom. Included in the full range of accessories are Pentax AF 130p and AF 100 P flashes, and a Pentax 110 Winder. The camera is also unusual in having a simple square scissors-type imaging aperture built into the body instead if in the lenses, and that’s why all Pentax lenses have a maximum aperture if f/2.8 and a minimum aperture of f/13.5. This ingenious system eliminates the need for any complex mechanical connections between the body and the lens. Oddly the Auto 110 boasted a battery-operated motor drive! Wow! Or is that OUCH !! What sense does it make to create the only 110 SLR system camera only to weigh it down with a motor drive? Not much, except that it rounds out the “system.”
The Pentax Auto 110 has a bright eyelevel pentaprism finder, a quick-return mirror, and a central split-image focusing spot surrounded by a matte field, Viewfinder info includes a green LED that lights to confirm adequate exposure adequate exposure (a minimum of 1/30 sec at f/2.8) a yellow LED to indicate a speed slower than 1/30 sec, necessitating a tripod or flash to avoid camera shake, and a default low battery indication when the LEDs fail to light when the shutter release is depressed. Center weighted TTL metering at full aperture covers a range of EV3 to EV 17 (with standard 24mm f/2.8 lens) at ISO 100, and in conjunction with the programmed electronic behind-the-lens shutter, provides a programmed autoexposure range if 1/750 sec at f/13.5 to 1 sec at f/2.8. Other features: two-stroke 145-degree film advance with 60 -degree standoff. The Pentax Auto 110 measures 2.2 x 3.9 x 1.8 inches (H x W x D) and weighs a mere 6.1 oz. with normal lens.
Pentax Auto 110 SLR 3-lens outfit: A gorgeous miniature high-spec SLR system
The Pentax Auto 110 Super released in 1982 features a brighter viewfinder, a new low light warning, a single-stroke film advance, and two lenses were added to the line, the 70mm f/2.8 telephoto and the 20-40mm f/2.8 zoom. Another improvement was the Super’s ability to shoot ISO 400 film. Other features parallel those of the Auto 110.
Pentax Auto 110 SLR Super has a brighter viewfinder, single-stroke film advance.
The Pentax Auto 110 was also produced in a rare and startling see-thru version and a natty two-tone tan and marron “Safari” version—see the pictures and captions accompanying this article.
Rare tan and maroon "safari" edition of Pentax Auto 110 is coveted by collectors.
Both the Pentax Auto 110 and Auto 110 Super are outstanding choices for 110 enthusiasts and collectors. They can deliver exceptional on-film performance and are a lot of fun to shoot with. Yet many shooters found the result less sharp than those achieved with fixed lens 110’s. Perhaps best if all, you can snag a clean functional Auto 110 on the used market for 100 bucks or even less, and a 4-piece 2-lens outfit for $150 to $175. Oddly, while the Pentax Auto 110 Super is less often listed than the Auto 110, it’s priced at about the same as the plain Auto 110. Go figure. Sage advice from the grizzled collector: When it comes to buying used cameras, condition isn’t everything but it’s definitely the most important thing.
Rare transparent Pentax Auto 110 SLR made for dealer display. Price: $1,000 and up.
110 Rangefinder Cameras
Canon 110 ED/110 ED 20: Introduced in 1975, the Canon 110 ED is an elegant and sophisticated 110 camera with a coupled superimposed image rangefinder and a superb 5-element, 4-group 26mm f/2 Canon lens. Its electromagnetically controlled shutter provides speeds of 8 to 1/500 sec and its aperture-priority autoexposure system uses an SPD cell and covers an EV 1 to 17 range with user-set click stops at f/2, f/4, f/8, and f/16. Viewfinder info includes a field frame with parallax correction marks, overexposure warning light, LED camera shake warning, and long exposure confirmation. The camera features a single-stroke film advance using a sliding knob, has a sliding protective cover, and includes a built-in date imprinting function. Powered by a 6v PX28 or equivalent battery, the svelte, compact Canon 110 ED measures 5-9/16 x 2-3/16 x 1-1/8 inches (W x D x H) and weighs in at 10-1/2 oz.
Original Canon 110 ED of 1975 has sharp 26mm f/2 Canon lens coupled to superb superimposed image rangefinder.
In 1977 Canon upgraded the Canon 110 ED, releasing the Canon 110 ED 20, now with an electronically controlled stepless shutter with speeds of 2 to 1/1000 sec, and providing auto film speed settings for films ISO 80 to ISO 400 to accommodate newly released high speed 110 films. Other features remained the same.
Canon 110 ED 20: Upgraded version of 1977 has step-less electronic 2-1/000 sec shutter, plus film speed settings to ISO 400.
Both the Canon 110 ED and the Canon 110 ED 20 are readily available ion the used market with prices for clean, fully functional examples running about $50 to $100. Most are silver chrome, but black finished examples fetch slightly higher prices.
Minox 110S: Fist shown at Photokina 1974 the Minox 110S was overshadowed by its stable mate the Minox 35 EL and wasn’t officially marketed until 1975. Produced by Balda in Germany at the behest of Minox, and bearing a close resemblance to the Balda 1000, it’s a camera of surprising sophistication and has a quality feel despite its polycarbonate (matte black Makrolon) construction. A distinguishing feature is its vertically arrayed “French doors,” which open by pushing a sliding tab on the bottom of the camera, which incorporates a tripod socket. This reveals the camera’s 4-element 25mm f/2.8 Carl Zeiss Tessar lens and the brilliant coupled superimposed image range/viewfinder that can focus the lens down to 2 ft. The viewfinder includes a bright white projected parallax-compensating frame line that covers the entire focusing range and has over- and long-exposure warning lights! The 110S employs an electronically controlled shutter with speeds f 4 to 1/1000 sec, automatically sets the film speed up to ISO 400 when a cartridge is inserted and provides a 1/40 sec flash sync speed at the “flash” setting. It has a CdS Meter cell next to the lens that provides aperture priority autoexposure based on the set aperture and automatic flash exposure from f/2.8 to f/22 based on the guide number of the flash cubes. Powered by two Varta 7203, Mallory MN625 batteries or equivalents the camera has a built-in X-cube socket with auto rotation and connections for a Minox Flash F 110. The camera measures 5.0 x 2.o x 2.0 inches (W x H x D) and weighs in at an ultra-light 5 ounces without film or batteries.
Minox 110S of 1975 is a sophisticated 110 with 4-element, 3-group 25mm f/2.8 lens, vertical "barn doors," and parallax compensating range/viewfinder.
The Minox 110S is widely available used in clean working condition at prices ranging from $80 to $140, and it’s an excellent choice for serious shooters, They’re difficult or impossible to repair so make sure yours comes with an ironclad money back guarantee.
Balda 1000 EL and 1000 EL BR: Balda built the high-end Minox 110S (see writeup above) from 1974 to 1978. However, after Minox abruptly stopped selling the 110S in 1978 Balda made its own model variants and sold them under their proper name as Balda 1000. These were the 4 Balda 1000 models:
Balda 1000 EL RX is a virtual clone of the Minox 110S (see text).
The 1000 EL RX, virtually a clone of the Minox 110S with a 1:2.8 25mm Rodenstock Ysarex lens and cube and electronic flash connections
The 1000 EL R, like the RX, but without cube flash
The 1000 EL BR, with a wide-angle 20.5 mm f/4 4-element Baldanon lens, without cube flash (about 2.500 were made).
The1000 EL Macro, same as the BR, but with additional macro capability, probably not a macro lens (sorry no additional data).
The Balda 1000 EL BR and EL RX, the latter closer to the Minox. Both have a rangefinder and advanced features, a very sharp, reasonably fast f/2.8 lens, aperture priority autoexposure and an electronically controlled automatic shutter. Basic specs: shutter speeds 4s - 1/1000.
100 and 400 ISO, automatic setting, rangefinder, parallax compensation, and electronic flash. These are superb high-spec cameras capable of outstanding performance and highly recommended to serious 110 shooters. Dimensions: 5.2 x 2.1 x 1.0 inches (w x D x H). Weight: 4.9 oz.
These handy, lightweight, fine performing cameras are not always easy to find on the major online suction sites, but recent selling prices for both models in clean working condition fall in the $70-$100 range.
Vivitar 742 XL Point N’ Shoot: Released in 1976, it’s a remarkably sophisticated 110 camera, especially one marketed by an independent company based in the U.S. The Vivitar 742 XL sports a fast 5=element all glass 24mm f/1.9 lens mated to an excellent “pinpoint” focusing superimposed image rangefinder that gets down to 2 ft., a shutter with speeds from 5 to 1/800 sec, programmed autoexposure via an “EE sensor” and a built-in electronic flash with an 8 sec recycling time that can get out to 18 feet with ISO 100 film and an amazing 37 feet with ISO 400 film. The bright inverse Galilean frame line viewfinder has parallax compensation marks, and when the flash is on the distance scale is lit, handy when shooting in n low light. It’s powered by two AA batteries, has no manual settings, a slow shutter warning light, and one stroke slider type film advance. The camera is rather large for a rangefinder 110 but it has a solid feel and a powerful flash, and its fine performing wide aperture lens make it a great choice for shooting in dim light. The Vivitar 742 XL measures 6.9 x 2.3 x 1.2 inches and weighs in at just under 12 oz. with film, batteries. and strap. The Vivitar 742 XL Point N’ Shoot is difficult to find online in clean working condition, but when you do run across one the price is likely to be staggeringly low—about 6 months ago one went for $13.50 on eBay!
Vivitar 742 XL (closed): It's a high-end 110 with a 24mm f/1.9 lens and a coupled rangefinder that focuses down to 2 ft.
110 Scale Focusing Cameras
Rollei A110 and E110: The brainchild of famed camera designer Heinz Waaske, the minuscule Rollei A110 created a sensation at Photokina 1974 but wasn’t released until 1975 due to production challenges, Consisting almost entirely of metal parts its few plastic parts are made of durable Delrin, The A110 must be pulled open like most 110 cameras, but its lens and viewfinder are covered by the outer camera body when it’s pushed closed, creating a truly pocketable mini camera. Perhaps its most innovative feature is the exposure system—the shutter blades open and the aperture blades are shut before the exposure begins. When you press the shutter release the exposure begins with the opening of the aperture blades and ends with the closing of the shutter blades. The system employs a silicium photodiode (SPD) cell with its own aperture that varies as those in the Rollei Tessar 23mm f/2.8 lens. Despite its short focal length, the lens scale focuses via an orange focusing slide on the front of the camera below the lens, and distances (in feet and meters) and focusing symbols are displayed in the finder. The A110’s programmed AE system covers a range from 4 sec at f/2.8 to f/16 at 1/400 sec via its electronically controlled Rollei-Prontor leaf shutter. The camera measures a teensy 88 x 44 x 30mm (W x H x D) when folded and weighs in at 185g (6.5 oz.) with PX27 6v battery. Between 1975 and 1978 Rollei turned out 124,000 A110s in Braunschweig, Germany and a further 78,000 units when manufacturing was transferred to Singapore from 1978 to 1981. Virtually all are finished in black. These cameras are exquisite masterpieces and great picture takers, but they’re not optimized for low light shooting because of their f/2.8 lenses.
Rollei A110 of 1975 is exquisitely compact, features programmed autoexposure using an SPD cell metering system.
The Rollei E110 is basically a less expensive “economy” version of the A110 with more advanced aperture priority exposure instead of the programmed exposure in the A110. Produced from 1976 to 1978 it incorporates a different Rollei-Prontor leaf shutter with speeds of 4 to 1/250 sec and employs a CdS cell to provide aperture priority auto exposure based on the user-selected aperture. Size, weight, and other features are the same as those of the Roillei A110. Virtually all are finished in satin chrome.
Rollei E110 of 1976 to 1978 was an "economy" version of the A110 with CdS cell aperture priority metering that prvided superior exposure control!
Asking prices for used Rollei A110s vary widely but expect to pay $150-$200 for a very clean or near mint example that’s guaranteed to be fully functional. The Rollei E110 is less commonly seen, but clean, working, guaranteed examples generally run about $125 to $150.
Minolta Weathermatic-A: Released in 1980, it’s a watertight 110 camera in brilliant yellow buoyant ABS plastic housing that has large controls designed for use by free divers wearing gloves. Submersible to a depth of 5 meters, it has a 4-element, 3-group 26mm f/3.5 Rokkor lens that focuses from 3 ft. to infinity using 5 zone focus symbols, a metal blade behind-the-lens mechanical shutter with a single fixed speed if 1/200 sec, and an exposure knob with settings for sun, clouds or flash that sets the aperture and confirms proper exposure when a finder lamp lights. Other features: a large, bright optical viewfinder with a bright field frame, parallax correction marks, a low light indicator, and focusing symbols. The Weathermatic-A has a built-in electronic flash with an aperture-selection switch. A single 1.5v AA cell powers the CdS meter cell, finder lamp and flash, and film advance is by a large bottom-mounted lever. It measures 2-1/16 x 2-13/16 x 7-1/2 inches (H x D x W) and weighs in at 12-1/2 oz without battery.
Minolta Weathermatic-A is submersible to 5m. It's a great beach and outdoor 110.
Despite its relatively modest specs the Minolta Weathermatic-A is an excellent picture taker on land and at shallow depths, and it’s a great choice for beachgoers and for shooting outdoors in inclement weather. Clean, working examples are readily available online at attractive prices ranging from $25 to $85, but make sure the one you buy is sold by a reputable seller and that it comes with full return privileges.
Minolta Pocket Autopak 450E: This stylish 110 camera with built-in pop-out electronic was released in 1977. Its 4-element, 3-group 26mm f/3.5 Rokkor lens has a built-in closeup lens that can be shifted over the lens to provide a minimum focus distance of 19 inches. The normal focusing range of 3 ft. to infinity is manually selected with a continuous sliding control and 5 focusing zones are displayed in the finder. Other viewfinder info: parallax correction marks, a red lamp to indicate slow shutter/use flash, and a red flag that appears when closeup mode is selected. The camera’s “semi auto” exposure system provides only two settings, sun (f/8) and cloud (f/3.5), and an LED that lights up to indicate insufficient exposure. Other parameters are automatically adjusted based on the film speed. The metal blade mechanical shutter in front of the lens has a single fixed speed of 1/200 sec The 450 E is powered by one AA cell, measures 6.4 x 2.3 x 1.1 inches (W x D x H) and weighs in at 8.3 oz. Note: The less expensive Minolta Autopak 430 E has 3 focusing zones, 2 exposure settings with or without flash, and a 3-elerment 26mm f/5.6 lens with no closeup lens.
Minolta Autopak 450E has stylish form factor, pop-out flash, slide-in closeup lens.
Despite its somewhat limited exposure system, the Minolta Pocket Autopak 450E is an excellent all-around picture taker, capable of satisfying on-film performance, and many find its largish form factor easier to handhold. Perhaps best of all, you can easily snag a clean working example online for a paltry 25 bucks or so.
Voigtlander Vitoret 110 EL: An elemental and elegant ultra-compact measuring a minuscule 4.8 x1.4 x1 inches (W x D x H), it was made in Singapore from 1978 to 1981. It has a 3-element 24mm f.5.6 Lanthar lens, an inverse Galilean optical frame line finder with parallax compensation marks, an electronic shutter with speeds of 4 to 1/300 sec. It provides aperture priority auto exposure—the user selects an aperture from f/5.6 to f/11 and the automatic CdS cell exposure system sets the proper exposure shutter speed. The camera is opened by moving the film advance slider, and the lens and viewfinder (front and back) are covered by shutters when the camera is closed. Apertures are manually set using weather icons—sunny is f/16, dull is between f/8 and f/11, light cloud is f/5.6, all at 1/125 sec, and the dull cloud icon corresponds to f/5.6 at 1/60 sec. The camera is powered by two readily available AAA batteries. Despite its modest specs the Voigtlander Vitoret 110 EL is capable if impressive results.
Voigtlander Vitoret 110 EL of 1977 to 1981 has a 3-element 24mm f/5.6 Lanhtar lens and aperture-priority AE using a CdS cell but outperforms its modest specs.
The Voigtlander Vitoret 110 EL is readily available online at enticing prices in the $20 to $35, but beware. Most are untested and sold as is.
Fujica Pocket 350 Zoom: Introduced in 1976 as part of a campaign to pitch 110 to serious shooters, the Fujica Pocket 350 Zoom was the first 110 camera to feature a built-in zoom lens, just edging out the Minolta 110 Zoom SLR that came out a bit later. Its signature feature is its 7-element, 6-group 25-42mm zoom lens with a maximum aperture of f/5.6 (equivalent to a 50mm to 85mm in the 35mm forma) that focuses manually down to 5 ft. The manual, mechanical shutter (no batteries required) provides a fixed X-sync speed of 1/125 sec., and three apertures (represented by small icons) provide apertures of f/5.6, f/8, and f/11 (a later version of the camera added f/16). The Pocket 350 Zoom has a large bright Albada optical zoom finder with reflected bright frame and parallax correction marks, thumbwheel film wind with provision for double exposure prevention, an X-sync hot shoe, and tripod and cable release sockets. Optional accessories: hand strap, lens cap, soft case, and Fujicolor Strobo P flash. The camera measures 4.9 x 2.6 x 1.1 inches (W x D x H) and weighs in at 7.1 oz.
Fujica Pocket 350 Zoom of 1976 squeaked.in as the first 110 zoom camera, but its 25-42mm zoom lens only focuses down to 5 ft.
Despite lacking a built-in metering system or focusing aids, the Fujica Pocket 350 Zoom scores on its excellent balance, handling, versatility, impressive on-film performance--and its attractive form factor. It’s readily available online at prices ranging from $30 to $45, but make sure the seller describes it as working, and offers full return privileges.
Porst Pocketpak 2001: Porst, a German distributor and retailer of many brands of cameras, was founded by Hanns Porst in Nuremburg in 1919. For many years Porst bought cameras from manufacturers including Agfa, Balda, Braun, Dacora, and King (Regula), and later from Japanese camera makers such as Cosina, Mamiya, Fuji, and Yashica. By 1996 Porst was Germany’s leading photographic retailer with stores all over the country, but later that year the company was purchased by a Belgian investment group. In 2001 ownership was transferred to Pixelnet, and in 2002 the company became insolvent and is now long out of business.
The Porst Pocketpak 2001, made in Germany by King (Regula Werk King KG). is an elegantly compact manual 110 camera produced from 1976 to 1983. It has a fixed focus 32mm f/9.5 normal lens that’s sharp down to about 5 ft., a two-speed mechanical shutter (1/125 sec plus a 1/50 sec flash sync speed that’s automatically set with a FlipFlash inserted or can be selected manually using two weather symbols (sunny and cloudy). The camera has a nice reflected bright line viewfinder with parallax correction marks and central crosshairs and a soft action shutter release. Its flash is powered by a 1.35v PX625 battery so the camera must be converted to work with a current 1.5 v button cell if flash is required. The diminutive camera measures 4.5 x 1.8 x 1.1 inches (W x D x H) and weighs a mere 3.18 oz.
Simple, compact, and elegant, the Porst Poketpak 2001 outperforms its specs.
Despite its elemental specs, the Porst Pocketpak 2001 can capture images of surprisingly good quality and scores on its posh form factor. Clean working examples are readily available on the leading online auction sites at prices ranging from about $30 to $40, and they can often be snagged for less,
Porst Pocketpak 6000: Featuring a superb 25mm f/2.8 Rodenstock Ysarex lens (a 4-element, 3-group Tessar formula), this advanced 110 rangefinder camera is a virtual clone of the Balda-made Minox 110S and has the same feature set, dimensions, and superlative performance parameters. Seldom listed on the leading online auction sites, clean working examples are frequently offered at bargain prices in the $30-$50 range when they do show up.
Porst Pocketpak 6000 with f/2.8 Rodenstock lens is a clone of the Minox110S.
King of the “110” cameras? Any Hasselblad with a 110mm f/2 Planar lens-
Warning: The lens alone generally runs around 2 grand for a pristine example. And depending on the Hasselblad model, asking prices for a lens/camera combo generally fall in the $4K to $5K range. That’s why you may want to opt for the ultra-rare Hasselblad 110 cartridge back. The bad news: it can only be retrofitted to the Hasselblad 1600F. The good news: For some strange reason it seems to cure that model’s notorious shutter reliability problems. Who knew?
By 2009, 110 was kaput. But in 2011, Lomography brought it back!
Part 2: A selection of fascinating 110 cameras from the classic era.
By Jason Schneider
The overwhelming majority of the 75+ million 110 cartridge cameras turned out by Kodak and competing European and Asian camera manufacturers between 1972 and the early 2000s were point-and shoots ranging from simple fixed focus models to scale focusing cameras with basic feature sets. However, there was also an active “niche market” consisting of more advanced 110 cartridge cameras aimed at serious shooters, including rangefinder models with fast lenses, zoom SLRs--even a complete miniature SLR system with interchangeable lenses! Many of these models are ingenious, brilliantly executed, and amazingly competent given the inherent limitations of the 13 x 17mm format. The great news is that this fascinating class of 110 cameras has now been transformed into (mostly) affordable user-collectibles thanks to Lomography, the fun-forward company that single-handedly rescued 110 from the brink of obscurity and now provides a wide range of 110 films, new 110 cameras, and support services. To give you a clearer idea of what’s ingenious, intriguing, and out there on the used market here’s our splendiferous selection of seductive 110s complete with tech data and estimated prices.
Kodak 110’s Inventor of 110 Film
Kodak Pocket Instamatic 20: A member of the original group of U.S. made Kodak Pocket Instamatic cameras Kodak announced in 1972, and in production until 1976, the Pocket Instamatic 20 is fitted with a 25mm f/9.5 triplet lens made entirely of molded optical plastic, and it has a two speed (1/100 sec, plus 1/40 sec with Magicube inserted) mechanical shutter. When the sliding lens cover is shut, the shutter release isn’t locked, but a warning flag appears in the brightline viewfinder. The flag also warns when a used bulb is in the Magicube socket. The camera’s focus s fixed at 5 feet and unlike many basic cameras it has a tripod socket. The Pocket Instamatic 20 measures 4.4 x 2.2 x 1.1 inches (L x W x H) and originally sold for $28.00.
Pocket Instamatic 20. A low-end model that performs amazingly well.
While its specs may seem pedestrian, its optical performance is anything but. When Modern Photography magazine field tested the Kodak Pocket Instamatic 20 against the posh ultraminiature Italian GaMi-16, a motorized rangefinder camera with a 6-element, 4-group 25mm f/1.9 Galileo Esamitar lens (which also provides a 13 x17mm format, but on 16mm roll film) the Pocket Instamatic 20 acquitted itself remarkably well, equaling and occasionally s surpassing Officine Galileo’s masterpiece. That same great triplet lens can also be found on the Kodak Pocket Instamatic 30 and there’s a slightly faster f/8 version on the Kodak Pocket Instamatic 40.
If you want to blow your photo enthusiast friends away with the amazing performance of what is little more than a fixed focus 110 box camera, you can snag a clean working Kodak Pocket Instamatic 20 online for as little as 10 bucks and there are scores to choose from.
Kodak Pocket Instamatic 60 Rangefinder: The top-of-the line model in the original series of 110 Pocket Instamatic cameras Kodak introduced in 1972, it sports a superb 4-element, 3-group, 26mm f/2.7 Ektar lens that focuses down to 3 ft. using the camera’s excellent coupled superimposed image rangefinder, and employs an electronically controlled leaf shutter with speeds of 10 to 1/250 sec. Both the shutter speed and aperture are automatically set by the non-TTL CdS cell metering system. The bright optical finder has a projected field frame line plus used bulb and long shutter time (below 1/30 sec) warnings. The camera uses a 2-stroke thumb advance, includes a socket for self-powered, auto-rotating Magicubes with automatic exposure control for flash distances from 4 to 30 ft. and features plastic construction with metal body panels. The slimline Pocket Instamatic 60 measures 5.6 x 2.1 x 1.06 inches (W x D x H) and originally sold for $128.00. Note: This camera was one if several Pocket Instamatics (models 30, 40, 50, 60 and Trimlite) that was powered by Kodak’s long discontinued 4.5v “K” battery. While replacements are no longer available, a few enterprising individuals on eBay now offer 3D printed exact size replacement “shells” that can be fitted with three readily available LR44, type 357, or SR44 button cells to get your above-listed camera (and others) up and running. Not the last word in convenience perhaps but it’s a one-time purchase and can be refilled with fresh button batteries whenever they’re needed.
Rare Kodak Pocket Instamatic 60 Deluxe in black chrome was released in 1973.
One result of the” K” battery kerfuffle is that used, untested Pocket Instamatic 60s are readily available at giveaway prices. If you’re willing to take a chance, and then purchase a 3D printed replacement “K” battery you can probably acquire a functional Kodak Pocket Instamatic 60 for well under 50 bucks all in. Worth it? Let’s just sat that it’s an outstanding camera with a great lens.
Just in time for Christmas 1973 Kodak unveiled Pocket Instamatic “60 Deluxe” in black chrome trim rather than standard chrome trim, and it’s drop dead gorgeous. The first 110 camera in black chrome (though preceded by the black chrome Leica M5 in 1971) it’s quite rare and eminently collectible. However you probably won’t have to shell out a fortune to own the only one on your block—there’s a pristine example of the “60 Deluxe” currently listed in eBay at a paltry Buy It Now price of $79.00 plus shipping!
Kodak Ektramax: Sophistication for the Illuminati. Kodak went all in with TV star Michael Landon promoting the Ektramax in full page magazine ads for low light with its 27mm F1.9 aspheric lens. Today on ebay those ads live on with Michael Landon Ektramax full page magazine ads for sale outnumbering the Ektramax camera!
“The Kodak Ektramax camera shoots just about anything your eye can see.” “Imagine the pictures you can get with a fast f/1.9 lens and ASA 400 film in a camera you can take virtually anywhere.’
In production between 1978 and 1981, this innovative U.S.-made high-spec camera is considered by many to be Kodak’s top-of-the-line 110 even though it lacks a rangefinder or a built-in metering system—a manual 4 ft. to infinity focusing scale atop the camera is mirrored in the viewfinder along with a set of distance symbols, and a top-mounted a sliding switch lets you select manual exposure settings. It’s clearly a camera aimed at knowledgeable connoisseurs.
2-page-spread ad for Kodak Ektramax f/1.9 pocket camera; details on 2nd page.
The Extramax’s signature feature is its fast, high-performance 4-element 25mm f/1.9 lens, constructed of 3 molded plastic elements and one aspheric element; it may be the first aspheric lensed mass-produced camera. The camera’s large, bright frame line viewfinder is claimed to show 110% of the picture area, has parallax correction marks, and displays focusing aids and exposure data so you can adjust the camera without taking it down from your eye. Selecting one of four “weather” symbols changes the shutter speed, f/stop and flash in combination. For ISO 100 film, the star (*) setting (Sunny) gives an exposure of 1/175 sec at f/8, the EX (Extra exposure) setting gives you 1/125 sec at f/4, the XL (Long exposure) setting gives you 1/100 sec at f/1.9, and the Z (Flash) setting gives you 1/30 sec at f/1.9 and fires the flash. Using ISO 400 film applies the same f/stops, but at faster shutter speeds. The Ektramax’s tiny built-in flash, powered by two AAA batteries, has an effective range of 20 ft. with ISO 400 film, and recycles in a blistering 2 seconds! The Ektramax handles extremely well--the shutter release is precise and predictable, the focusing slider is well positioned and has a very smooth action, and its built-in sliding lens/viewfinder cover can’t be misplaced. With its classic slimline 110 form factor, the camera measures 1-3/16 x 6-5/8 x 2-3/16 inches (H x W x D) and weighs in at a mere 6.4 oz. without batteries. Original list price: $87.50, rather pricey at the time.
Ad for Kodak Ektramax is clealy pitched at sophisticated shooters.
While the Ektramax was produced in reasonable numbers and is not considered a low-production model, as of this writing none are currently offered for sale on eBay, Etsy, or any of the other major online auction sites. Actual selling prices for Ektramax cameras within the past year run in the $25 to $50 range.
Kodak Tele-Ektra 1 and 2: For 1978 this was great technology, two built in lenses for a simple inexpensive camera -- simple, economical dual-lens 110 cameras manufactured from 1978 to 1981 both have a top slider that lets you switch between normal and telephoto lenses, and the linked viewfinder shows the matching field of view. Both models have Luminized (coated) lenses that can capture reasonably sharp pictures from 5 ft. to infinity. The Kodak Tele-Ektra 1 was made from Feb. 1978 to Feb. 1981, has a 2-element 22mm f/9.5 normal lens, a 45mm f/11 telephoto, and 3 shutter speeds—1/60, 1/125, and 1/210 sec. It measures 1-1/4 x 6 x 2-7/16 inches (H x W x DO) and weighs in at 6.7 oz. The Kodak Tele-Ektra II was made from Feb. 1978 to Jan. 1980, has a 3--element 22mm f/5.6 normal lens and 44mm f/5.6 telephoto lens and has a 4-speed mechanical shutter with speeds of 1.60, 1/80, 1/250, and 1/500 sec. it measures 1-3/6 x 5-3/16 x2-1/8 inches ( H x W x D) and weighs in at a mere 4.7 oz.
Kodak Tele-Ektra had 22mm f/5.6 normal and 44mm f/5.6 telephoto lenses.
The bright dual viewfinder parallax-correction marks, displays focusing symbols, and shutter speeds--1/60 sec when using a Flipflash or a Kodak Ektra Electronic Flash. Despite their modest specs, the Kodak Tele-Ektra 1 and 2 are competent, versatile, walk-around cameras capable of delivering satisfying results albeit not quite at the level of more sophisticated models. Since prices for clean working Kodak Tele-Ektras (either model) currently run around S15-$25, the The Kodak Tele-Ektra II is clearly the preferred shooter’s choice.
110 SLRs – alas only 4
Only the mind of Minolta produced TWO 110 SLRs. Only the mind of Pentax produced system 110 SLRs with interchangeable lenses.
Minolta 110 Zoom SLR: Minolta’s original flat form zoom SLR, one of the first 110 cameras of its kind, was in production from 1976 to 1979, Taking its form factor from the typical 110 pocket camera, it has a 25-50mm f/4.5 Zoom Rokkor Macro lens (roughly equivalent to a 50-100mm lens on a 35mm camera) that cam focus down to 11 inches and has click stops to f/16. Its external CdS cell provides aperture-priority metering and +/-2EV exposure compensation in] 1EV steps, but there’s no fully manual exposure. A metal-bladed, behind-the-lens, electronically controlled shutter provides stepless speeds of 10 to 1/1000 sec plus B and a mechanical X-sync speed of 1/150 sec. A short-stroke thumb lever advances the film quickly, and it’s powered by two S-76 silver-oxide batteries. An eye-level porro-meter viewfinder shows 85/% of the on-film area, has a central microprism, and yellow LEDs in the finder indicate shutter speed, slow speed and over-range warnings, mechanical settings, and battery condition. The compact Minolta 110 Zoom SLR measures 2-1/8 x 4-1/4 x 5-1/4 inches (H x D x W) and weighs in at 15-1/8 oz. A very capable picture-taker with an excellent lens, viewing/focusing system, and convenient controls, this distinctive camera is widely available used at prices ranging from $35-70.
Original Minolta 110 Zoom SLR had a flat body in the 110 tradition.
Minolta 11O Zoom Mark II: Released in 1979 as an upgraded successor to the poor-selling Minolta 110 Zoom SLR, it’s the most versatile and capable of the breed and one if the best all-in-one 110 cameras ever made. Configured as a downsized version of a 35mm SLR, the Mark II features a 12-elenent, 10-group 25-67mm f/3.5 Zoom Rokkor-Macro lens (the 35mm equivalent of a 35-135mm lens) that can focus down to about 7.7 inches (0.19x magnification) using a swing-in closeup element. Its fixed eye level pentaprism finder shows 85% of the on-film image (068x magnification at 25mm; 1.74x at 67mm) and has a split image focusing spot centered in a matte field, plus 5 LED shutter speed readouts from 1/60 sec and other warnings on the left side. Its metal-bladed transverse shutter provides electronically controlled speeds of ¼ to 1/1000 sec with mechanical X (1/125 sec) and B settings and has an electromagnetic release. The camera provides TTL center-weighted aperture priority autoexposure using a pentaprism mounted CdS cell (EV 5.6 to EV 17) plus exposure compensation of +/- 2EV, and is powered by two EPX-76 or S-76 cells with a front-mounted LED battery check. The Minolta 11O Zoom Mark II measures 4.5 x 3.0 x 4.0 inches (W x H x D) and weighs in at 17.0 oz without batteries. A great choice for 110 enthusiasts, a used Mark IIs in pristine working condition currently fetches about $110 to $160 and they’re not easy to find.
Minolta 110 Zoom SLR Mark II had improved specs, and a 35mm-SLR-style body.
Pentax Auto 110 and Auto 110 Super: Ironically, Pentax brought forth the Pentax Auto 110 in 1979, when the 110 format was already in decline. However, this audacious little camera (along with the mildly upgraded Auto 110 Super of 1982) is the only true system SLR based on the 110 cartridge format, That system includes an impressive line of interchangeable mini bayonet mount f/2.8 Pentax-110 lenses ranging from two 18mm wide-angles, a 24mm standard lens, a 50mm medium tele, a 70mm telephoto, and a 20-40mm zoom. Included in the full range of accessories are Pentax AF 130p and AF 100 P flashes, and a Pentax 110 Winder. The camera is also unusual in having a simple square scissors-type imaging aperture built into the body instead if in the lenses, and that’s why all Pentax lenses have a maximum aperture if f/2.8 and a minimum aperture of f/13.5. This ingenious system eliminates the need for any complex mechanical connections between the body and the lens. Oddly the Auto 110 boasted a battery-operated motor drive! Wow! Or is that OUCH !! What sense does it make to create the only 110 SLR system camera only to weigh it down with a motor drive? Not much, except that it rounds out the “system.”
The Pentax Auto 110 has a bright eyelevel pentaprism finder, a quick-return mirror, and a central split-image focusing spot surrounded by a matte field, Viewfinder info includes a green LED that lights to confirm adequate exposure adequate exposure (a minimum of 1/30 sec at f/2.8) a yellow LED to indicate a speed slower than 1/30 sec, necessitating a tripod or flash to avoid camera shake, and a default low battery indication when the LEDs fail to light when the shutter release is depressed. Center weighted TTL metering at full aperture covers a range of EV3 to EV 17 (with standard 24mm f/2.8 lens) at ISO 100, and in conjunction with the programmed electronic behind-the-lens shutter, provides a programmed autoexposure range if 1/750 sec at f/13.5 to 1 sec at f/2.8. Other features: two-stroke 145-degree film advance with 60 -degree standoff. The Pentax Auto 110 measures 2.2 x 3.9 x 1.8 inches (H x W x D) and weighs a mere 6.1 oz. with normal lens.
Pentax Auto 110 SLR 3-lens outfit: A gorgeous miniature high-spec SLR system
The Pentax Auto 110 Super released in 1982 features a brighter viewfinder, a new low light warning, a single-stroke film advance, and two lenses were added to the line, the 70mm f/2.8 telephoto and the 20-40mm f/2.8 zoom. Another improvement was the Super’s ability to shoot ISO 400 film. Other features parallel those of the Auto 110.
Pentax Auto 110 SLR Super has a brighter viewfinder, single-stroke film advance.
The Pentax Auto 110 was also produced in a rare and startling see-thru version and a natty two-tone tan and marron “Safari” version—see the pictures and captions accompanying this article.
Rare tan and maroon "safari" edition of Pentax Auto 110 is coveted by collectors.
Both the Pentax Auto 110 and Auto 110 Super are outstanding choices for 110 enthusiasts and collectors. They can deliver exceptional on-film performance and are a lot of fun to shoot with. Yet many shooters found the result less sharp than those achieved with fixed lens 110’s. Perhaps best if all, you can snag a clean functional Auto 110 on the used market for 100 bucks or even less, and a 4-piece 2-lens outfit for $150 to $175. Oddly, while the Pentax Auto 110 Super is less often listed than the Auto 110, it’s priced at about the same as the plain Auto 110. Go figure. Sage advice from the grizzled collector: When it comes to buying used cameras, condition isn’t everything but it’s definitely the most important thing.
Rare transparent Pentax Auto 110 SLR made for dealer display. Price: $1,000 and up.
110 Rangefinder Cameras
Canon 110 ED/110 ED 20: Introduced in 1975, the Canon 110 ED is an elegant and sophisticated 110 camera with a coupled superimposed image rangefinder and a superb 5-element, 4-group 26mm f/2 Canon lens. Its electromagnetically controlled shutter provides speeds of 8 to 1/500 sec and its aperture-priority autoexposure system uses an SPD cell and covers an EV 1 to 17 range with user-set click stops at f/2, f/4, f/8, and f/16. Viewfinder info includes a field frame with parallax correction marks, overexposure warning light, LED camera shake warning, and long exposure confirmation. The camera features a single-stroke film advance using a sliding knob, has a sliding protective cover, and includes a built-in date imprinting function. Powered by a 6v PX28 or equivalent battery, the svelte, compact Canon 110 ED measures 5-9/16 x 2-3/16 x 1-1/8 inches (W x D x H) and weighs in at 10-1/2 oz.
Original Canon 110 ED of 1975 has sharp 26mm f/2 Canon lens coupled to superb superimposed image rangefinder.
In 1977 Canon upgraded the Canon 110 ED, releasing the Canon 110 ED 20, now with an electronically controlled stepless shutter with speeds of 2 to 1/1000 sec, and providing auto film speed settings for films ISO 80 to ISO 400 to accommodate newly released high speed 110 films. Other features remained the same.
Canon 110 ED 20: Upgraded version of 1977 has step-less electronic 2-1/000 sec shutter, plus film speed settings to ISO 400.
Both the Canon 110 ED and the Canon 110 ED 20 are readily available ion the used market with prices for clean, fully functional examples running about $50 to $100. Most are silver chrome, but black finished examples fetch slightly higher prices.
Minox 110S: Fist shown at Photokina 1974 the Minox 110S was overshadowed by its stable mate the Minox 35 EL and wasn’t officially marketed until 1975. Produced by Balda in Germany at the behest of Minox, and bearing a close resemblance to the Balda 1000, it’s a camera of surprising sophistication and has a quality feel despite its polycarbonate (matte black Makrolon) construction. A distinguishing feature is its vertically arrayed “French doors,” which open by pushing a sliding tab on the bottom of the camera, which incorporates a tripod socket. This reveals the camera’s 4-element 25mm f/2.8 Carl Zeiss Tessar lens and the brilliant coupled superimposed image range/viewfinder that can focus the lens down to 2 ft. The viewfinder includes a bright white projected parallax-compensating frame line that covers the entire focusing range and has over- and long-exposure warning lights! The 110S employs an electronically controlled shutter with speeds f 4 to 1/1000 sec, automatically sets the film speed up to ISO 400 when a cartridge is inserted and provides a 1/40 sec flash sync speed at the “flash” setting. It has a CdS Meter cell next to the lens that provides aperture priority autoexposure based on the set aperture and automatic flash exposure from f/2.8 to f/22 based on the guide number of the flash cubes. Powered by two Varta 7203, Mallory MN625 batteries or equivalents the camera has a built-in X-cube socket with auto rotation and connections for a Minox Flash F 110. The camera measures 5.0 x 2.o x 2.0 inches (W x H x D) and weighs in at an ultra-light 5 ounces without film or batteries.
Minox 110S of 1975 is a sophisticated 110 with 4-element, 3-group 25mm f/2.8 lens, vertical "barn doors," and parallax compensating range/viewfinder.
The Minox 110S is widely available used in clean working condition at prices ranging from $80 to $140, and it’s an excellent choice for serious shooters, They’re difficult or impossible to repair so make sure yours comes with an ironclad money back guarantee.
Balda 1000 EL and 1000 EL BR: Balda built the high-end Minox 110S (see writeup above) from 1974 to 1978. However, after Minox abruptly stopped selling the 110S in 1978 Balda made its own model variants and sold them under their proper name as Balda 1000. These were the 4 Balda 1000 models:
Balda 1000 EL RX is a virtual clone of the Minox 110S (see text).
The 1000 EL RX, virtually a clone of the Minox 110S with a 1:2.8 25mm Rodenstock Ysarex lens and cube and electronic flash connections
The 1000 EL R, like the RX, but without cube flash
The 1000 EL BR, with a wide-angle 20.5 mm f/4 4-element Baldanon lens, without cube flash (about 2.500 were made).
The1000 EL Macro, same as the BR, but with additional macro capability, probably not a macro lens (sorry no additional data).
The Balda 1000 EL BR and EL RX, the latter closer to the Minox. Both have a rangefinder and advanced features, a very sharp, reasonably fast f/2.8 lens, aperture priority autoexposure and an electronically controlled automatic shutter. Basic specs: shutter speeds 4s - 1/1000.
100 and 400 ISO, automatic setting, rangefinder, parallax compensation, and electronic flash. These are superb high-spec cameras capable of outstanding performance and highly recommended to serious 110 shooters. Dimensions: 5.2 x 2.1 x 1.0 inches (w x D x H). Weight: 4.9 oz.
These handy, lightweight, fine performing cameras are not always easy to find on the major online suction sites, but recent selling prices for both models in clean working condition fall in the $70-$100 range.
Vivitar 742 XL Point N’ Shoot: Released in 1976, it’s a remarkably sophisticated 110 camera, especially one marketed by an independent company based in the U.S. The Vivitar 742 XL sports a fast 5=element all glass 24mm f/1.9 lens mated to an excellent “pinpoint” focusing superimposed image rangefinder that gets down to 2 ft., a shutter with speeds from 5 to 1/800 sec, programmed autoexposure via an “EE sensor” and a built-in electronic flash with an 8 sec recycling time that can get out to 18 feet with ISO 100 film and an amazing 37 feet with ISO 400 film. The bright inverse Galilean frame line viewfinder has parallax compensation marks, and when the flash is on the distance scale is lit, handy when shooting in n low light. It’s powered by two AA batteries, has no manual settings, a slow shutter warning light, and one stroke slider type film advance. The camera is rather large for a rangefinder 110 but it has a solid feel and a powerful flash, and its fine performing wide aperture lens make it a great choice for shooting in dim light. The Vivitar 742 XL measures 6.9 x 2.3 x 1.2 inches and weighs in at just under 12 oz. with film, batteries. and strap. The Vivitar 742 XL Point N’ Shoot is difficult to find online in clean working condition, but when you do run across one the price is likely to be staggeringly low—about 6 months ago one went for $13.50 on eBay!
Vivitar 742 XL (closed): It's a high-end 110 with a 24mm f/1.9 lens and a coupled rangefinder that focuses down to 2 ft.
110 Scale Focusing Cameras
Rollei A110 and E110: The brainchild of famed camera designer Heinz Waaske, the minuscule Rollei A110 created a sensation at Photokina 1974 but wasn’t released until 1975 due to production challenges, Consisting almost entirely of metal parts its few plastic parts are made of durable Delrin, The A110 must be pulled open like most 110 cameras, but its lens and viewfinder are covered by the outer camera body when it’s pushed closed, creating a truly pocketable mini camera. Perhaps its most innovative feature is the exposure system—the shutter blades open and the aperture blades are shut before the exposure begins. When you press the shutter release the exposure begins with the opening of the aperture blades and ends with the closing of the shutter blades. The system employs a silicium photodiode (SPD) cell with its own aperture that varies as those in the Rollei Tessar 23mm f/2.8 lens. Despite its short focal length, the lens scale focuses via an orange focusing slide on the front of the camera below the lens, and distances (in feet and meters) and focusing symbols are displayed in the finder. The A110’s programmed AE system covers a range from 4 sec at f/2.8 to f/16 at 1/400 sec via its electronically controlled Rollei-Prontor leaf shutter. The camera measures a teensy 88 x 44 x 30mm (W x H x D) when folded and weighs in at 185g (6.5 oz.) with PX27 6v battery. Between 1975 and 1978 Rollei turned out 124,000 A110s in Braunschweig, Germany and a further 78,000 units when manufacturing was transferred to Singapore from 1978 to 1981. Virtually all are finished in black. These cameras are exquisite masterpieces and great picture takers, but they’re not optimized for low light shooting because of their f/2.8 lenses.
Rollei A110 of 1975 is exquisitely compact, features programmed autoexposure using an SPD cell metering system.
The Rollei E110 is basically a less expensive “economy” version of the A110 with more advanced aperture priority exposure instead of the programmed exposure in the A110. Produced from 1976 to 1978 it incorporates a different Rollei-Prontor leaf shutter with speeds of 4 to 1/250 sec and employs a CdS cell to provide aperture priority auto exposure based on the user-selected aperture. Size, weight, and other features are the same as those of the Roillei A110. Virtually all are finished in satin chrome.
Rollei E110 of 1976 to 1978 was an "economy" version of the A110 with CdS cell aperture priority metering that prvided superior exposure control!
Asking prices for used Rollei A110s vary widely but expect to pay $150-$200 for a very clean or near mint example that’s guaranteed to be fully functional. The Rollei E110 is less commonly seen, but clean, working, guaranteed examples generally run about $125 to $150.
Minolta Weathermatic-A: Released in 1980, it’s a watertight 110 camera in brilliant yellow buoyant ABS plastic housing that has large controls designed for use by free divers wearing gloves. Submersible to a depth of 5 meters, it has a 4-element, 3-group 26mm f/3.5 Rokkor lens that focuses from 3 ft. to infinity using 5 zone focus symbols, a metal blade behind-the-lens mechanical shutter with a single fixed speed if 1/200 sec, and an exposure knob with settings for sun, clouds or flash that sets the aperture and confirms proper exposure when a finder lamp lights. Other features: a large, bright optical viewfinder with a bright field frame, parallax correction marks, a low light indicator, and focusing symbols. The Weathermatic-A has a built-in electronic flash with an aperture-selection switch. A single 1.5v AA cell powers the CdS meter cell, finder lamp and flash, and film advance is by a large bottom-mounted lever. It measures 2-1/16 x 2-13/16 x 7-1/2 inches (H x D x W) and weighs in at 12-1/2 oz without battery.
Minolta Weathermatic-A is submersible to 5m. It's a great beach and outdoor 110.
Despite its relatively modest specs the Minolta Weathermatic-A is an excellent picture taker on land and at shallow depths, and it’s a great choice for beachgoers and for shooting outdoors in inclement weather. Clean, working examples are readily available online at attractive prices ranging from $25 to $85, but make sure the one you buy is sold by a reputable seller and that it comes with full return privileges.
Minolta Pocket Autopak 450E: This stylish 110 camera with built-in pop-out electronic was released in 1977. Its 4-element, 3-group 26mm f/3.5 Rokkor lens has a built-in closeup lens that can be shifted over the lens to provide a minimum focus distance of 19 inches. The normal focusing range of 3 ft. to infinity is manually selected with a continuous sliding control and 5 focusing zones are displayed in the finder. Other viewfinder info: parallax correction marks, a red lamp to indicate slow shutter/use flash, and a red flag that appears when closeup mode is selected. The camera’s “semi auto” exposure system provides only two settings, sun (f/8) and cloud (f/3.5), and an LED that lights up to indicate insufficient exposure. Other parameters are automatically adjusted based on the film speed. The metal blade mechanical shutter in front of the lens has a single fixed speed of 1/200 sec The 450 E is powered by one AA cell, measures 6.4 x 2.3 x 1.1 inches (W x D x H) and weighs in at 8.3 oz. Note: The less expensive Minolta Autopak 430 E has 3 focusing zones, 2 exposure settings with or without flash, and a 3-elerment 26mm f/5.6 lens with no closeup lens.
Minolta Autopak 450E has stylish form factor, pop-out flash, slide-in closeup lens.
Despite its somewhat limited exposure system, the Minolta Pocket Autopak 450E is an excellent all-around picture taker, capable of satisfying on-film performance, and many find its largish form factor easier to handhold. Perhaps best of all, you can easily snag a clean working example online for a paltry 25 bucks or so.
Voigtlander Vitoret 110 EL: An elemental and elegant ultra-compact measuring a minuscule 4.8 x1.4 x1 inches (W x D x H), it was made in Singapore from 1978 to 1981. It has a 3-element 24mm f.5.6 Lanthar lens, an inverse Galilean optical frame line finder with parallax compensation marks, an electronic shutter with speeds of 4 to 1/300 sec. It provides aperture priority auto exposure—the user selects an aperture from f/5.6 to f/11 and the automatic CdS cell exposure system sets the proper exposure shutter speed. The camera is opened by moving the film advance slider, and the lens and viewfinder (front and back) are covered by shutters when the camera is closed. Apertures are manually set using weather icons—sunny is f/16, dull is between f/8 and f/11, light cloud is f/5.6, all at 1/125 sec, and the dull cloud icon corresponds to f/5.6 at 1/60 sec. The camera is powered by two readily available AAA batteries. Despite its modest specs the Voigtlander Vitoret 110 EL is capable if impressive results.
Voigtlander Vitoret 110 EL of 1977 to 1981 has a 3-element 24mm f/5.6 Lanhtar lens and aperture-priority AE using a CdS cell but outperforms its modest specs.
The Voigtlander Vitoret 110 EL is readily available online at enticing prices in the $20 to $35, but beware. Most are untested and sold as is.
Fujica Pocket 350 Zoom: Introduced in 1976 as part of a campaign to pitch 110 to serious shooters, the Fujica Pocket 350 Zoom was the first 110 camera to feature a built-in zoom lens, just edging out the Minolta 110 Zoom SLR that came out a bit later. Its signature feature is its 7-element, 6-group 25-42mm zoom lens with a maximum aperture of f/5.6 (equivalent to a 50mm to 85mm in the 35mm forma) that focuses manually down to 5 ft. The manual, mechanical shutter (no batteries required) provides a fixed X-sync speed of 1/125 sec., and three apertures (represented by small icons) provide apertures of f/5.6, f/8, and f/11 (a later version of the camera added f/16). The Pocket 350 Zoom has a large bright Albada optical zoom finder with reflected bright frame and parallax correction marks, thumbwheel film wind with provision for double exposure prevention, an X-sync hot shoe, and tripod and cable release sockets. Optional accessories: hand strap, lens cap, soft case, and Fujicolor Strobo P flash. The camera measures 4.9 x 2.6 x 1.1 inches (W x D x H) and weighs in at 7.1 oz.
Fujica Pocket 350 Zoom of 1976 squeaked.in as the first 110 zoom camera, but its 25-42mm zoom lens only focuses down to 5 ft.
Despite lacking a built-in metering system or focusing aids, the Fujica Pocket 350 Zoom scores on its excellent balance, handling, versatility, impressive on-film performance--and its attractive form factor. It’s readily available online at prices ranging from $30 to $45, but make sure the seller describes it as working, and offers full return privileges.
Porst Pocketpak 2001: Porst, a German distributor and retailer of many brands of cameras, was founded by Hanns Porst in Nuremburg in 1919. For many years Porst bought cameras from manufacturers including Agfa, Balda, Braun, Dacora, and King (Regula), and later from Japanese camera makers such as Cosina, Mamiya, Fuji, and Yashica. By 1996 Porst was Germany’s leading photographic retailer with stores all over the country, but later that year the company was purchased by a Belgian investment group. In 2001 ownership was transferred to Pixelnet, and in 2002 the company became insolvent and is now long out of business.
The Porst Pocketpak 2001, made in Germany by King (Regula Werk King KG). is an elegantly compact manual 110 camera produced from 1976 to 1983. It has a fixed focus 32mm f/9.5 normal lens that’s sharp down to about 5 ft., a two-speed mechanical shutter (1/125 sec plus a 1/50 sec flash sync speed that’s automatically set with a FlipFlash inserted or can be selected manually using two weather symbols (sunny and cloudy). The camera has a nice reflected bright line viewfinder with parallax correction marks and central crosshairs and a soft action shutter release. Its flash is powered by a 1.35v PX625 battery so the camera must be converted to work with a current 1.5 v button cell if flash is required. The diminutive camera measures 4.5 x 1.8 x 1.1 inches (W x D x H) and weighs a mere 3.18 oz.
Simple, compact, and elegant, the Porst Poketpak 2001 outperforms its specs.
Despite its elemental specs, the Porst Pocketpak 2001 can capture images of surprisingly good quality and scores on its posh form factor. Clean working examples are readily available on the leading online auction sites at prices ranging from about $30 to $40, and they can often be snagged for less,
Porst Pocketpak 6000: Featuring a superb 25mm f/2.8 Rodenstock Ysarex lens (a 4-element, 3-group Tessar formula), this advanced 110 rangefinder camera is a virtual clone of the Balda-made Minox 110S and has the same feature set, dimensions, and superlative performance parameters. Seldom listed on the leading online auction sites, clean working examples are frequently offered at bargain prices in the $30-$50 range when they do show up.
Porst Pocketpak 6000 with f/2.8 Rodenstock lens is a clone of the Minox110S.
King of the “110” cameras? Any Hasselblad with a 110mm f/2 Planar lens-
Warning: The lens alone generally runs around 2 grand for a pristine example. And depending on the Hasselblad model, asking prices for a lens/camera combo generally fall in the $4K to $5K range. That’s why you may want to opt for the ultra-rare Hasselblad 110 cartridge back. The bad news: it can only be retrofitted to the Hasselblad 1600F. The good news: For some strange reason it seems to cure that model’s notorious shutter reliability problems. Who knew?
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