My forgotten camera is a Voigtländer Perkeo I, a pocketable 6x6 folding rangefinder that I bought at a flea market for a couple of bucks. The lens is a 75mm ƒ/4.5 Vaskar. Focusing is a matter of guesstimation and a fair number of my pictures have been out of focus. The camera probably needs a CLA. I eventually bought a Yashica Mat, which I found to be a lot easier to use but doesn't really count as a forgotten camera (or is this just my opinion?).
The picture I have included was taken in Middelburg, Holland. I remember being surprised at it when I hung the film up to dry.
I'm looking forward to seeing what others submit.
Paul Christensen
For a "couple of bucks" you got a bit of bargain, Paul. Those Perkeos aren't that common, particularly the first models with the Vaskar lenses. I have seen the later model II's which feature the Skopar lens. (I think they look and function the same.)
Well it looks to me like you're doing just fine with this little old guy. These really were "guesstimate" focusing cameras. You can find a accessory for these cameras that takes most of the guess work out of focusing...but that would probably diminish the fun.
Thanks very much for posting this guy in "Mike's Old Beauties Camera Pageant", Paul.
Posted by: Ken Tanaka | Saturday, 13 September 2008 at 01:08 PM
Paul, excellent image!!!
I love the little perky's, I have a Perkeo III with Kolor-Skopar lens. I am always amazed at the Negative Size/Camera Size ratio.
Excellent IQ if one takes ones time.
Posted by: Lilianna | Saturday, 13 September 2008 at 06:07 PM
Great camera:). With cameras like this I piratically don't use view finder...And if you are using it a lot you can get quit accurate :)
I could suggest other forgotten camera:). Moskva 1 (made in 1948m.) the first camera line from KMZ. I have special with brown leather not with black as it was common:).
Posted by: menelajas | Tuesday, 14 October 2008 at 08:48 AM