Ikoflex Ia / Ib / Ic
In the realm of Twin Lens Reflex (TLR) cameras, the conversation is pretty well dominated by just a few brand names: Rolleiflex, Yashica, and Mamiya, in particular. That doesn't mean, however, that there aren't other solid options for someone looking to get into the TLR world. After seeing the success of Rollei's Rolleiflex cameras, Zeiss Ikon introduced its original Ikoflex camera, in 1934. The original Ikoflex varied, in a few respects, from its predecessors; the most notable being that the film traveled horizontally across the back of the camera instead of vertically. While this design choice was certainly unique, it gave the original Ikoflex an odd look that earned it the nickname, the "coffee can." By the time of its first redesign, the Ikoflex had squared up its look and turned the film transport 90 degrees.
Zeiss fitted the Ikoflex I with a 75mm f/3.5 Novar Anastigmat taking lens that, while adequate, did not provide the same quality optics of the more expensive Tessar lenses used by the Ikoflex's competitors. Another issue with the Ikoflex is the fairly clunky shutter speed and aperture controls. While Rollei has two knurled wheels on either side of the front standard that control exposure, the Ikoflex I has two smaller levers that can be difficult to adjust. Lastly, the shutter release button is located on the top of the camera, next to the focusing screen, not the most ergonomic design choice. All told, the Ikoflex I is definitely a camera that needs to be learned to be appreciated.
What the Ikoflex I may lack in features and quality lenses, it certainly makes up for with its price point. The Ikoflex I is an affordable way to join the world of TLR photography, and finding them is relatively easy. While learning them requires a bit of patience, appreciating them is a true breeze.
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