Zeiss Super Ikonta C 531/2 2 1/4 X 3 1/4

[oftheherd]

The Super Ikonta 531/2 is a great camera.

The only problems I have, will have to be using a tripod horizontally with the protruding tripod mount which makes it a little wobbly, and the Albada finder.
( I guess we could complain about all sorts of stuff with a 70+ year old camera, like the lack of AF, no power winder, can't shoot video etc. )

Here is mine:

I use Ilford XP2 with it's great exposure latitude and try to hold the camera as steady as possible.
f8 to f11 gives acceptable focus from side to side at 6x9.

I found a lens hood from a guy on Ebay, which is designed for the 531/2 and improves exposure considerably.
The focus on my camera seems quite accurate, but don't count on it at f3.5. YMMV

I was considering buying one until I read your description. RF I can do without, and power winder as well. But when I read there is no video mode, that was the deal buster. 😀 😀

Nice looking model you have there. I like it. But I think I will stay with my Mamiya Six. 🙂 For non-RF, I like the Zeiss Ikon 6x9 I have. The 6x9 negative is a nice size. I used to think otherwise (when I didn't have a camera that shot that), but after I got the Zeiss Ikon, I learned to really appreciate that negative size.

 

[dakotah]

I also would recommend shooting 6x9. It's a very nice camera, and if you have one that is clean, all the better.

Some people have trouble coming to grips (pun intended) with holding the camera. I've found the best method is to form a "C" with your left hand. Now, lift your index finger.

And that's how to hold the camera. Index finger on the shutter release. Thumb supports the camera from below. And your other fingers wrap around the lens door so that you have a secure grip on the camera.

Tried holding the camera as you suggested and found it to be very comfortable with minimum camera shake. Thanks for the great tip ZeissFan.

 

[dakotah]

You're welcome Jerry.

On the leatherette on the back of your camera is the type-designation imprinted. That means that's very probably that the leatherette is genuine from Zeiss. On the hinge or backopener side of that leatherette should normally be imprinted the body serial number, vertically orientated and starting with a letter.

Maybe have a close look at those areas with a strong light. The imprint might be damaged or filled up with dirt.

FOUND IT! Serial number is G78805. I guess I needed to look at the camera more closely under a good light source. Thanks again hanskerensky. Now I just have to find the information as when the camera was made.

 

[hanskerensky]

Serial numbers starting with a G were indeed used in 1938.

 

[dakotah]

Serial numbers starting with a G were indeed used in 1938.

That's what my research indicates, 1938. Thanks again everyone for your help and comments......Jerry