🟡 Smaller than Leica M6 and Shoots 6x6 Negatives! | Voigtlander Perkeo 1 & 2 Review

[@q8b37]

The Perkeo prices have just shot up thanks to the Osborne Effect. :-)

[@SamuSaurama]

Exactly :D .

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Haha thanks Q! In the original footage I stated I thought about buying 10+ Perkeo to then sell after at a profit but I thought it might make people start to doubt the value of the videos and my reason for making them ha.. so I cut it out.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Ha thanks Samu! :)

[@joecalabresi4072]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Publish a “Matt Osborne Insider” channel only for special fans (fans that cough up a few dollars)

[@joecalabresi4072]

What is a reasonable price currently?

[@cfagil]

I have Perkeo III with a built in uncoupled range finder. It takes great photos. Love it.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes I love the size and nice image quality stopped down a little. Inpatiently waiting for Covid to finish so I can use mine more.. and other folders!

[@bluesycow]

Thanks for the video Matt. I am beginning to use a Zeiss Ikon folding 6x6 and am happy to see that I no longer feel like I emerged from a 70 year old hole in the ground when I am out shooting with it among digital shooters. I love the images and the challenge of setting every parameter with tiny sliders on the front of the lens. But I cheat a little with a light meter attachment on my iphone.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Dylan, ha yes I think these old folding cameras offer fantastic value for money.. and cheating with a iPhone is fine I think ha.. though I don't trust it myself so I meter handheld (Sekonic) or worst case with digital.

[@paulhyde1834]

Thank you! Geat video.... I've had my Perkeo 1 for about 6 weeks - can't wait to put it through it's paces! I love the 6x6 folders......

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Paul, yes great camera! I need to use mine more!

[@SamuSaurama]

Thanks Matt! Excellent story

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks for the feedback, it helps me for future videos!

[@Swade99]

Stopped the video 4 minutes in to buy one. Not kidding.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Haha thanks Steven, I hope you found a nice one and thanks for feedback! :)

[@the92project]

I own a perkeo II and it’s my fav 6x6 camera. I sold my rolleiflex but kept my perkeo. Extremely portable, great photos.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, yes I love the compact size!

[@peterspenneman8885]

Watched your video just now. Thanks for all the info, I have a Perkeo I but never loaded it with a roll of film. Now I will surely load it up and go for a stroll. Thanks Matt!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Peter! I hope you enjoy using your Perkeo :)

[@MichaelWilde.pushbikegraddad]

They were cheap but your fine review has just shot the prices up, another great video by the way

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Sorry Michael and thanks. Maybe keep your eye out you might be able to find a bargain. If not just look at similar small folding cameras. There are so many and some are very cheap.

[@Christopher-ld9yt]

I find that neither funny, nor useful.

[@yaelrayden197]

i dont mean to be so off topic but does any of you know a tool to log back into an Instagram account..? I stupidly lost the login password. I appreciate any assistance you can offer me

[@rockyjudson799]

@Yael Rayden Instablaster ;)

[@yaelrayden197]

@Rocky Judson i really appreciate your reply. I found the site through google and im in the hacking process atm. I see it takes quite some time so I will reply here later with my results.

[@mhz9003]

20 years ago the Perkeo 1 was my gateway drug into medium format photography. My girlfriend at the time (now my wife) gave me the camera she just had lying around and to be honest I didn't think too much of it until I shot my first roll and saw the results. All I could say was WOW. I still still take it out from time to time as its so compact. Just slip it in the back pocket of your jeans and go for a walk.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks for sharing! Yes the negatives are great aren’t they and agreed I love the size!

[@ChristophFrank-on2po]

thanks for the amazing video and the great pictures! A few years ago I compared a Hasselblad Planar 80/2.8 with the Color Skopar 80/3.5 on TriX. On the Planar picture you could read the writing on a tiny street sign, on the Perkeo picture you could only guess. i thought the difference was too big especially after seeing your Perkeo Video. I did the “test” again without film. I looked directly through the lenses with a Linhof 8x magnifying glass. I basically built a telescope. I could not see any difference between Color Scopar and Planar. The planar perhaps has slightly more contrast. The writing on the sign was super sharp with both lenses, much much better than what was captured on film. So if something is out of focus, it's usually not the lens' fault. With the telescope test you can also see fog and scattered light. its an easy direct lens test to get a quick impression of a lens without any components between.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Interesting thanks. It depends on the Perkeo lens and if stopped down. The colour Skopar stopped down has been good for me but I’ve not compared exactly.

[@mandoprince1]

Folding medium format cameras are brilliant! Compact, lightweight and excellent picture quality. Voightlander were always a top quality brand, but there are plenty of similar cameras from other manufacturers that also give great results. I have a Kodak 66 model III (the cheaper model II differed in having a three, rather than five speed shutter and lacked both double exposure prevention and a film reminder dial. Takes great pictures, but I've not used it for a long time due to the convenience of digital. I also used a flash shoe mounted rangefinder, which made accurate focussing very easy!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes agree, lots of nice cameras from this era!

[@erikalvner]

I found one of these (the Perkeo 1) at a charity shop near my home town like six years ago for about £12. It's been lying aorund collecting dust since but I'm trying to get into medium format. I think I'll go looking for it and put it to use.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Great! Stop it down a little and stunning results from f5.6 (especially)

[@letmebereal]

Another oarsome review! All the right info, and from a fine and picky photographer. Cool vibes to all.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Mark! An oldie but yes great cameras!

[@gbwalther3198]

Yeah, I still have a Zeiss Ikon folding camera which I used in Germany many years ago. Great shots. Real film, nothing like real film! 😎😎

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! I had another folder back from service today so a video to come once I've shot some film!

[@JerzyRugby]

The Agfa Isolette which I have is quite identical in size. These cameras are perfect for hiking.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! Yes I hear they are great cameras also, yes perfect for hiking, agreed :)

[@SydneyMud]

Here is a side-by-side photo www.photo.net/discuss/threads/in-praise-of-the-perkeo.5499937/

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@SydneyMud thanks for sharing!

[@sophrapsune]

There was also an earlier Voigtlander Perkeo from 1932-33, which shot 3x4 cm images and had Voigtlander’s amazing art deco styling.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Ah thank you! Great info

[@danMdan]

It used 127 film.

[@Narsuitus]

Thanks for the review. I do not have the Voigtländer Perkeo but I do have the Ansco Speedex 6x6 folding camera which is smaller than my Leica M6 35mm rangefinder. I do not have an accessory rangefinder but sometimes I use my Leica M6 to determine the camera to subject distance.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Nice! Yes great idea to use second camera to mesaure the distance, I do the same sometimes.

[@danMdan]

What about the Voightlander Bessa 66 and 64, especially with the Heliar lens ? Or the Agfa Isolette 66 with a Solinar lens, and uncoupled rangefinder. One disadvantage worth mentioning is the often built-in DEP, double exposure prevention. Now bearing in mind that the shutter needs to be set manually in front lensed cameras, when you attempt to take a picture, but have omitted to set the shutter, the DEP mechanics usually clicks on as soon as an attempt is made to fire the still unset shutter, forcing a wind on of the unused frame of film. Now when I get a 66 CLA done I ask for the DEP to be "cancelled", i.e. removed.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Dan, I cover a 6x9 Bessa in another video and I have some 6x6 folders I still need to review too. The Perkeos are my smallest so far.

[@danMdan]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I'd like to see a a Perkeo beside a Bessa 66, I feel the Bessa might just beat the Perkeo. The Bessa suits my master eye being my left eye, as the Bessa viewfinder is right at the end of the chassis. I keep looking for a fine condition one with the 4+ element Heliar lens.

[@throtol]

As always, a great presentation. I recently purchased a Perkeo v.1 on eBay for about $110 with a leather case. In general, I am happy with the camera. It is easy to operate. However, it is difficult to read the numbers on the lens when in the field. I have a pair of reading glasses next to my Leitz desktop tripod in my camera case. It is far easier to move around town as opposed to a Rolleicord, Yashica Mat or other TLR. I also have a Kiev 88, but this beast is heavy and difficult to operate especially when I am in a sketchy part of town. Moreover, I appreciate you point out the Voigtlander rangefinder that sits in the cold shoe. I definitely want one for this camera as well as my Bessa L.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Great! Yes the size is lovely 100%, and sharp too (from say f5.6 on the P1) Yes Voigtlander RF units are nice. Get the one that is feet or meters to match your camera. You can get both.

[@alfredbarten4901]

I have a bunch of 1950s medium format folders. Perkeo 2 with Skopar lens is my favorite. Good, sharp, contrasty pics. I just estimate the distance and pay attention to the depth of field scale.It fits nicely in my pocket for hikes. The Mamiya version is much bigger. I also like my Ansco Speedex Special with Solinar lens and my Konica Pearl 1 (6x4.5). I tried a Press Van and found the viewfinder cut off too much of the image. Waiting for my Welta Weltax.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thank you Alfred. Yes surely one of the best Hiking cameras! :) Thanks regarding the Mamiya, yes it is closer in size to my Iskra 6x6 I believe. Excellent lens if you see one! (I will do a review in the future once I've used it more + lots more MF cameras!)

[@mlindblom]

Havent used mine in about 10 years. Maybe time again.. Made some nice pictures back then. I would need to get a new light meter (I am terrible at guessing the values)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Marcus, you could try sunny 16 rule to start with.

[@khanscombe619]

Fun video. OK I got to love the hasselblad 500c/m. But it's not as portable but much smaller & Lighter of its class. I'd love to find a good compact folding 6x6 but with good rangefinder & f2.8. How does that rangefinder finder attachment focus for 2.8 medium close ?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, yes this camera is not for f2.8 shooting. Get camera with RF. I have another vintage folding camera i've not reviewed yet. I'll try to take it on my next trip and make a video. (Has a RF)

[@danMdan]

I use a Zeiss folding Contina, numbered 524/24 as my smallest medium format camera.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Dan, i've not tried those yet but I know the name.

[@mrdasboot45]

About the separate rangefinder, people should make sure that the camera and rangefinder have the same measurement scale (meters or feet) otherwise setting the focus distance might be difficult. Nice camera’s by the way but I am not trading in my Agfa Super Ikonta 8)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Menno! An excellent point you make. Funny I bought a "feet" RF just before posting while I could as I only have "meters" one and I use cameras with both scales.

[@GeorgeHuss]

What was the Shoe Mount Rangefinder you held up at @8.23 mark. The video wasn't in focus and couldn't see the name. Thanks !

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hey George, made by Voigtlander, you’ll find them on eBay.

[@paultaylorphotography9499]

Awesome as always Matt. I bought an Italian ferrania falco 2 stylish as hell love using it and starting to get some nice shots out of it. Just got hold of an Ikonta too not had chance to try it yet. Keep up the top work mate

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Paul! Very nice

[@richardhale9664]

I stumbled across a Perkeo I with a Vaskar a few years ago in a local charity shop for £15. Bought it, gave it a test, liked it and decided to sell it on to get the Perkeo II. Made a small profit on the Perkeo I, but even in 2015 Perkeo IIs were hard to come by and much more expensive. Luckily the Missus got me one for my 50th from Petralka in the Netherlands for about £200. This shop only sells serviced and fully functional gear, so you do pay a premium. It is a wonderful camera and the lens does perform better at wider apertures, but honestly the Perkeo I is a better buy as it is simpler to operate due to the loading system*, and its cheaper price. As MB states once stopped down you can't tell the difference in performance. * My increasing long sightedness makes me think this may not be the case as I now have trouble reading the numbers in the red windows of many of these old roll film cameras!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Richard, yes I agree once stopped down :) ..and £15, that's impressive!

[@crissignori7482]

I just saw this and it reminds me very much of my father’s camera which he gave to me so I could get started in photography. Have you ever used a Balda Super Baldax? My father used it to photograph and have published Queen Elizabeth’s visit to Canada in 1959. Later, after I already had been using the Nikon F3 I traded it with a little money added to buy a Leica IIIf to try to get my father back into the hobby. Nice video Mr. Voigtlander. 😂

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Cris! I know the name but I’ve not used those cameras so far. Haha I still use mostly Leica bodies.

[@ackamack101]

It’s like a 6x6 version of a Rollei 35- compact, portable and you have to guess on the focus (without an external rangefinder). 😄 📷

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Ah yes, a great comparison!

[@larryfromwisconsin9970]

Thanks for the information. I have an Afga Isolette II that is similar. These were not inexpensive cameras in their day. $83 in 1952 does not sound like much but considering the value of the dollar that would be $805 today. Still not as much as your professional cameras but a lot of money for a casual family camera.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Larry, nice! Yes still expensive for sure.

[@blobbicus]

Hi Matt. Just got my hands on one of these cameras today. Looking forward to trying it out. Been enjoying your videos and getting back into film photography, although I'm more in the Minolta league.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Ha Martin, congrats on your new camera! I use a Minolta X300 too and it takes photos as good as my Leicas :) This is a great camera, I think you will love the images. (I wrote a post for my Patreon only yesterday raving about this camera with new sample images!)

[@edwardcrosby5034]

One of the issues I have with these cameras is the viewfinder is quite poor, it goes with the age of cameras from this era. Voigtlander however have an accessory called a kontur, which is a viewfinder that puts a bright line around the frame. Very useful if you wear glasses, or need critical framing. Thanks for the interesting video.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Edward. I have that finder but i've not used it yet TBH as it goes against the super small size of the camera. Good to have though and thanks for mentioned..I should have noted it in the video really.

[@richardhale9664]

The Kontur finders are wonderful.You keep both eyes open and you can see what you are NOT taking. Great for composition. I have one each for 35mm, 6X6 and 6X9 for my Vito IIa, Perkeo II and Bessa

[@richardhale9664]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom It does not occupy any more space than the rangefinder. It depends what you need most. The Kontur finder gives an excellent viewing image by keeping both eyes open and you can see what you are NOT taking.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@richardhale9664 Thanks I have the same finder. It was confusing to begin with ha! :)

[@eladbari]

There's just a lack of options if you like the 6x6 format. Kiev 60 looks like best option (if you prefer the more SLR experience, like I do), and it weighs like a tank. Shooting so slow without a coupler is a problem. The process is already slow as it is

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Ha yes, I had a Pentacon 6 TL which is Similar I think. I love my Kiev 88 and have a Kiev 4a too! Reviews on these cameras to come so stay tuned! :)

[@eladbari]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Hey Matt. Yea, I heard of the Pentacon, yet also heard it has a lot of malfunctions (maybe you could confirm? One reviewer said 1 out of 3 works), so it left me with the Kiev 60 as a more optimal 6x6 option. (The pentacon does look lighter/smaller)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@eladbari it was one of my first film cameras I picked up. Yes many have spacing issues, mine also. I still have it. Good lenses so I got the Kiev 88 converted to P6 mount. Looks like a Hassy. I used this camera a lot. Will try to share in a video soonish so stay tuned

[@eladbari]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Yeah, I understood the 88 has many chances for failure from user errors (i.e- you have to cock the shutter before sliding in the back, otherwise the camera gets stuck..i dont know, things in that fashion)...which leads me to prefer the SLR form factor. Also should be better to hold, rather than holding a box. Again...very few worthy SLR style medium format cameras which are 6x6 Anywyas, your reviews are on fire, Matt :)

[@pedromendonca2963]

Hi Matt, I have a Perkeo II and once I saw you telling that one can use push-on filters and close the camera (6:00), I bought a set. Unfortunately, I do not think my Perkeo II can be closed with a Voigtlander G2 32mm (302/32) yellow filter. Maybe the Perkeo I can do it but I have not been able to close my Perkeo II with the filter on. Since you have both Perkeo I and II, can you please verify if both can be closed with Voigtlander push-on filters on?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hello yes correct. You can close P1 with filter on but not P2. If using P2 I carry filter in little protection case separately

[@pedromendonca2963]

Thank you @@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom. I wish P2 would close with a yellow filter...maybe with a screw on type? Why did Voigtlander did the P2 like that? Can we conclude that the P1 is more suited for Black and White photography than the P2 ?

[@rbrowning8088]

Matt, what is the make and model of the rangefinder you attatch to the hot shoe on the Perkeo 1 or 2 ? ....rb

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi, it’s a Voigtlander RF unit. You can find on eBay. Can get in both meters and feet.

[@PictureSizeDoesMatter]

Thank you. Is there a way to close the red window on the 1?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

From memory press the button next to the window and a cross goes over it

[@nicolaskrinis7614]

Out of the park, again, Matt. Just bought the iii and the viewfinder for a song. Which film would you use for landscape? Not familiar with medium format film. I want rich colours with medium contrast. Does it go by size? Can't seem to find an answer :( Thanks for any help, and you are doing wonderful work and helping photogs everywhere. A Big Thank You from me !!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi Nicolas, thanks! Rich colours, perhaps Kodak Ektar (120 film for the 6x6, 35mm for the iii).. Portra 400 can be quite saturated too or shoot slide film for the best colours - Fuji Provia or Velvia for the most colour.

[@nicolaskrinis7614]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Thank you so much, Matt!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@nicolaskrinis7614 no problem 👍🏻

[@neilpiper9889]

I use a 1957 Yashica Mat with a 75mm 3.5 Lumaxar lens, a Kiev 6c 6x6 slr with a 90mm 2.8 Vega lens and a Moskva.which shoots 6x6 or 6x9 with an excellent 110mm f4. 5 lens. Coat pocket sized coupled rangefinder. A Russian version of the Ziess Super Ikonta 6x9. I also had an Ensign folding 6x6 which was pocketable. Great stopped down like most 3 element lenses. Ensign also made a 6x6 bellows coupled rangefinder camera called the Ensign Commando with the 3 element Ross Ensar lens. Prices have gone up with those thanks to people like you. Suits me, as I sell old film cameras. There are the folding bellows versions of Mamiya 6 and Fuji cameras for around £120. The folding Mamiya and the Ensign Commando focuses by moving the film plane.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Neil! Nice collection. Which camera has the best lens if you could only have one!? :) ..I like my Moskva-5 (it's on another video).

[@neilpiper9889]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom The Lumaxar on the Yashica Mat is the best, but the Kiev 6c with the 90mm Vega 2.8 is close.

[@garyroberts5478]

Hi, - i have the Voigtlander Bessa 66 - an even smaller (slightly) camera than the Perkeo with a folding viewfinder and Color Skopar in Compur Rapid shutter. It makes Great images and fits sraight into a baggy pocket. Still find it hard tho to stop buying TLR's! Nice informative video, Thanks.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Gary! Great tip! Yes buying cameras is addictive ha

[@mkshffr4936]

About those accessory rangefinders, I have problems with aging eyes and have trouble getting accurate focus with the ground glass split image on my Minolta X-570. Do you thing that an acc range finder might help?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi, i'm short sighted and I find RF cameras much easier than SLRs to hit focus, 100%

[@protestagain]

You gave me an idea. I have the Mamiya 6MF with 50 and 150mm lens, and, of course, missing the 80mm. Also have the 7 with 43mm, and have been wondering if I should buy an 80mm for one of those cameras, but do I need it? I can buy a nice Voigtländer Perkeo II and get that focal length very cheap, and it would weigh less than a 80mm to a Mamiya. That Voigtländer Perkeo looks wonderful, and I can carry that one all the time, and maybe sell the Mamiya stuff.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes and then shoot 2 film stocks if 2 bodies. I have 50/150 +75 combo too. See that vid. Yes great value camera!

[@protestagain]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I have been there, wondering, if I buy a 6MF with a 75mm and use those to bodies with different films. Maybe it's better to buy two Voigtlander Perkeo. It will still be cheaper than buying the 75mm.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@protestagain I use a pair of them :)

[@stevebarnett5048]

Thank you Matt, Friday teatime and I thought I'd finally finished spending for the week! I'd been looking for a Super Isolette for a 6x6 project but nerves set in with how many seem to have 'issues' considering the prices. But I'd forgotten about the Perkeo! I now have a Perkeo II on the way. I'm a big fan of some of the old folders, but mostly they are 6x9.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Steve, yes I feel the Perkeo offers good value against some of the better know/ higher priced folders. I will maybe review 6x9 at a later date. I need to get out and shoot first! :)

[@norfener]

Many thanks for this comprehensive and inspiring video. I'd been looking at various medium format camera for a while and after seeing this went out and bought a Perkio II on eBay. UK viewers should be aware (as I found out) that after Brexit, buying a camera on eBay from the EU may be liable to VAT and more expensive ones to import duties as well.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi Brian, thank you. Lovely little cameras! Sorry to hear that you were caught out by Brexit. I did a eBay tips video before Brexit but now you must consider +20% minimum for items >£135. (I try to buy items less than £135 now ha). Enjoy your camera.

[@norfener]

Update - The camera arrived today, nothing to pay, and the first film has already been sent off to the lab. Many thanks for your informative and inspiring video.

[@weisserth]

I just bought a mint Mamyia-6 Automat with the Olympus Zuiko lens. Fantastic experience, mind blowing that you can have a medium format 6x6 rangefinder that LITERALLY fits into the pockets of my pants(!!!). "Is that a medium format rangefinder in your pocket or you just VERY happy to see me?" :P

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Haha thanks TW, yes there are some amazing folders. I have another one I still need to review with a fantastic lens on it.

[@joecarey7123]

I have a question. My Perkeo 1 trigger sticks. Does anyone still repair these? Thanks for a great video.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

I’m sure they will, ask your local repair guy.

[@theoldfilmbloke]

I knew about these Perkeos in about 1952 when I started Photography at East Ham Grammar School Photographic Society ! My Mate Jimmy Lewis, who now lives in US of A still HAS his Mk 1 with 'Vaskar' lens his Mum bought him and he let ME use it once and I still have some contact prints taken on it on a Youth Hosteling trip to Cornwall ! It cost about £25 NEW which was a FORTUNE in 1952 for us Impoverished Schoolboys and it took me AGES to save up £24 - 10 - 3d in Old Money for a British Ensign Selfix 16/20 model II with 75mm f3.5 Ross Xpres lens. I bet YOU YOUNG SNAPPERS don't know about Pounds, Shillings and Pence ! Ha ha !

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Peter Elgar Great to have you hear Peter! I know you from Flickr in the past and I’ve seen some of your videos! You have celebrity status! :)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Peter Elgar haha great story thanks, I’m older than I look..I remember 1/2p and £1 notes :)

[@MrFredGross]

4 years later, 250cad$ 😅🥹 great video and nice discovery Matt.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, you sometimes still see deals. I was lucky finding my P1, my P2 was more expensive!

[@Kneedeepinstock]

Is the resolving power of this lens as good as a regular 645 like a bronica or Pentax? If not what rating would you give it 1-10? And have you tried a Konica pearl iv btw?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes it’s fantastic by f5.6-8, I couldn’t ask for more (and I’ve used all the main best MF cameras if you’ve seen my videos).

[@peterbeck-rasmussen8514]

Just put my first roll of film through my Perkeo I with 75mm Vaskar lens - plan to develop today and scan tomorrow. Really exited to see the results. Also got a Vatameter Super rangefinder that goes on the cold shoe of the Perkeo, which makes it a doddle to focus (I hope - not having seen the results yet :-) )

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Congrats Peter! Fingers crossed! :)

[@peterbeck-rasmussen8514]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Epic result with TMax 400 - have also tried Fuji Acros 100 since my comment with equally fine results. Next up will be Rollei Superpan 200 - I think the 200 ASA film will be perfect for this camera considering max shutterspeed of 1/250. What a wonderful little camera !! :-)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Peter Beck-Rasmussen thanks Peter! Yes agreed a great little camera that I was happy to discover! Yes Acros 100 is nice. I’ve not tried Superpan but agree with your speed thinking vs. ISO 100.

[@throwingstones96]

Can you give more info about the external hot-shoe rangefinder? Tryna get one for easier focusing with my rollei 35 Great content BTW

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hello yes, I use Voigtlander ones, cheap on eBay, get one to match your camera so in meters or feet (can get both) / I use both for different cameras.

[@jacovanlith5082]

The three lens element Vaskar is a fine triplet. Most amateurs will not see any difference in quality between a 8x10 B&W print of a Vaskar and a Zeiss Planar. When I was 10 years old, I was often trespassing the shunting yard of a Rotterdam tramway company in 1957. To make a photo of the old steam lokomotives. Having a cheap Gevaert film in my Ilford Sporti camera. A one element lens. Shutterspeed 1/60 sec + B. Cloudy and sunny f/8 and f/11. The camera plus tripod made super sharp negatives.... Prints 9x14 cm of the waiting RTM no 56 locomotive and a 2 minutes exposure of three lokomotives in a dark shed.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Stopped down a bit Vaskar is fine. Skopar slightly better and better wide open on P2

[@zoltankaparthy9095]

Great and studied review. Owned a Vito II with the Color Skopar f/3.5 and it was a fine little camera. I think being bellows cameras reduces their attraction. They look too old fashioned but are very good cameras as you have demonstrated. Thanks again.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Zoltan!

[@BarwickGreen]

Thanks, I enjoyed that video. I own a contemporary competitor, the Nettar. Great cameras, medium format in your pocket!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Rupert, ah nice I looked at Nettar cameras too.

[@BenPrevo]

Kodak Duo 620 with 120 film is a lovely little tool too.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Ben!

[@oldmanmikey]

I love this channel!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Ha thanks Mike!

[@csreiter]

I have never had a medium format film camera but I just bought one... */sweats profusely*

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Congrats Chris!! You will be blown away by the big negatives and will never be able to look at 35mm in the same way again! :)

[@csreiter]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I adore it!

[@TheTurnerT]

Thanks so much for the tip. Was looking for a new folder. I bought one right away. Only for the record: perkeo II with Skopar and case for 99€

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Groni thanks, yes Skopar version costs more than the basic model but well worth it, especially if you have a trip where you need to pack as light as possible. Glad you found one.

[@eladbari]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Wait, and how much is that coupled viewfinder adapter? (is that the official name?)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@eladbari the rangefinder for the cold shoe? You can find them quite cheap on eBay £30 maybe

[@jacovanlith5082]

A VASKER lens is a TRIPLET (3 element) the aperture is between element 2 and 3. The elements are not glued together; there is are in between. A Vasker looks like the Zeiss Trinar /Novar, Meyer Trioplan, Agfa Apotar, Berthiot Aastigmat, Schneier Radionar, Steinheil Cassar. :

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Jaco!

[@martinpettinger413]

Just went to look at prices and they have shot up and the market price now doubled or more. Fascinating little camera and going to buy one from a reputable seller. What I would like is your recommendations on where to buy the 120 film. I have only just recently started using old vintage cameras - Leicaflex SL, Kiev 4 and a Leica IIIa (Need to wait 2 weeks for the film to be developed as used a local Max Spielmann and they are not currently doing 1hr in store)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi Martin, really? I looked on eBay UK within Europe and there are plenty available cheap. (Most of what I buy is within Europe). I buy film on eBay too. Where ever is cheapest. Good to hear you have the other vintage cameras too.

[@stuartconnelly5397]

Are the rangefinders easy to find for the perkeo?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

I have one spare if you are UK based?

[@GreyGhost-r4z]

I use to buy folders ALL the time. CERTO6 will rebuild them for you. I actually owned a Certo6 and it was nice but using it on a tripod sucked. It interferes with the door. So I was buying and rebuilding Agfa Isolettes and the Record II and III’s. 6x6 and 6x9. If you need bellows look up SandehaLynch dot you know 😊. He makes 6x6 , 6x9 and also large format bellows. He’s also in the UK. The Pronto shutter is easy to rebuild also. Fun Cameras to throw in a pocket. Why aren’t they making them today ?? No one needs to be carrying around the RB67 weapon 😊

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks and regarding the bellows. Yes someone should release a new folder.

[@jopicter]

How would you compare to similar Mamiya 6? Besides the zucio lens what would advise,Thanks,Joe

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi Joe, the later Mamiya 6 that I use (see video) is much more practical for most applications and comes with 3 amazing lenses. I've not used the older silver metal Mamiya 6 but it is said to be good too (more like the Perkeo).

[@johnelder7449]

Great video. Look for the Brooks Veriwide 100 that is not a graflex design. Body by Brooke's Plaubel, Schneider 47mm Schneider, Rolleicord lougs for strap. About size of Nikon FM. Fixed lens. Negative 6cm x 10cm. Leitz spe ially made auxiliary viewfinder. Had a good one and let it go. Worst mistake I made as far as selling equipment. Equivalent 35mm lens size 19mm.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks John! Sorry I missed this

[@GONZOFAM7]

Sept. 2022 the price has certainly gone up. I'd love one to match with my Vito II.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Jaime, yes I think Covid times (and free money payouts) pushed all the prices up sadly.

[@MarsKvaratskhelia]

Super love this type of cameras for streets I have Zeiss ikon 75mm guess focus shoots 6x45 folds and slips right into my jeans pocket no prob and you can hold frame and shoot it using one hand 🤚 I do streets with it 👍👍 You do the best portraits big fan on Flickr

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks mate! ..and that Ikon sounds a winner too.

[@Isac3000]

I bough a Perkeo E last summer for 5 dollars. Guess I made a good deal? However I have no idea how it works. Not sure how to maneuver the lens settings. Where can I find information about that?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Great price! Try Google for an online manual.

[@Isac3000]

I did find one. But Im not sure if my shutter tension is stuck or if im doing something wrong. Can’t trigger it. Maybe I should send it to a professional. It looks mint otherwise.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@Isac3000 I need to send some of my mint looking vintage a Leica for services as they need work. Yes I have a pile of old cameras I need to send for repair. If you plan to use it a CLA would be recommended anyway before frequent use.

[@tikkathreebarrels]

EXCELLENT! just bought two Mamiya TLRs - drat! Actually at 5th October 2020 prices are now in the mid to upper £100's. Actually Matt my question to you is this: folding cameras are now quite old and becoming worn and prone to malfunctions: I've bought enough folders to have learned that they are quite unreliable: you don't mention this or don't seem to have this as a problem?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

TLR are great too! See my Rolleicord vid and congrats on your Mamiyas! :)

[@GeorgeStar]

A non-coupled RF is more of a hassle but you don't need to have it recalibrated regularly.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks George, agreed, sometimes a blessing but yes for me this is not a camera for portraits.

[@holgershund]

Thank you. I'm very interested in folding cameras. So far I have a Welta Weltax 6x6 East German from the 1950 with a Carl Zeiss Jena that is sharp stopped down.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thank you John! I have quite a few so I will share more in the future. My latest is a Bessa 1 6x9! :)

[@jacovanlith5082]

How sharp will a 50 ASA negative be when the camra was at f/11 and on a tripod. Do you know the brands FRANKA ( Western Germany) and WELTA ( Eastern Germany) Send your Perkeo photoos to Hasselblad ad .......

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi Jaco, we've had Covid non-stop since getting this camera so it's never really been out on any proper trips. It will be sharp at f11 for sure (Perkeo 2 at f8 too). I heard of Franka more but still haven't bought one.

[@haroldminuskumar]

Have you tried using the 35mm adapter with the perkeo? Also, for portraits do you think its possible?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi Harold, 35mm film adapter you mean? Not yet. The camera is not for portraits.. not ideal anyway. I don't use it for that.

[@haroldminuskumar]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom yeah 35mm film adapter. This would be a great sprocket rocket if it works, sharp optics and quite compact!

[@jamesdouglaswhittaker1811]

Agree with his thinking and the choice of camera -I have one with the Vascar lens but - and it’s a big but - the price of a Perkeo in the condition he shows is well over his £45 . He is out of date in 2023. In fact at present it’s over £100 especially with the Skopar lens . If he cares to prove me wrong then I’ll gladly buy it off him to join my Perkeo with Vascar lens and be very happy with two .

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks James, feel free to talk to me directly. Someone bought one super cheap the other day and wrote to me but yes in general the prices have gone up since the cash handouts during Covid.

[@612morrison]

Having recently got into old folding medium format cameras to complement my Nikon D850 and F100 although not voigtlander but a couple of old but mint condition Kodak 66's both model ii and iii along with a zeiss ikon nettar 6x9 and I'm waiting to finish of the films so as yet I haven't yet experienced the quality good or bad of the images, but how big a print is possible from these small folders? Great video by the way.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Congrats on getting into folders! I'm no printing expert but I blow up 35mm film to A3 happily so that would equate to A0/ massive for 6x6 :) People shoot medium format for a reason ..even though I am a sucker for 35mm film too. :) I hope you get some nice results. Some of the old cameras are a bit hit and miss with copy variation due to their ages so don't give up if one doesn't work. See my 6x9 vid - I had a few duds in my time.

[@612morrison]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaComthanks. Going back (although I haven't done away with digital) to film has given this 53 year old dog a new love for getting creative, but with the zeiss everything is the opposite way round 🤯 from the Kodak's so its taking a bit of getting use . Yes I know with 6x6 you can get really big prints because my wife before we where married worked for a photographer who used hasselblad 500's and some of the prints where really big but with these small lenses is possible to a decent 30x40" print even though I would be well pleased with a A2 print from my canon pro 1000.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@612morrison Yes I get the same backwards issue with Nikon SLR vs Leica! The image circle of the lens should not matter, that is only to let more light in. It's the film format that counts I think. Do some tests, you should be fine.

[@612morrison]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom the shutter release button on the left is doing my head in lol. Yes it's like starting all over even you know the basics but learning a different set of skills that you take for granted in modern cameras, but when you think about image size when the idea of the camera came from a hole seen from inside a dark shed.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@612morrison yes that’s a great way to look at it! Good point!

[@TangoDJAnthonyCronin]

Long been a fan of folders, have two Isolettes but six months ago picked up a Perkeo II with Skopar. Totally blown away with the results. A step above the Agfa or Super Ikonta's of this era. great video, best travel cameras.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Anthony! Great to hear that and i'm sure others will find it interesting to hear vs the Super. Yes perfect for travel!

[@yasumotonoboru]

How often did you say: “... if you stop the lens down.”? What about the quality of the pictures when the lens is wide open?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Haha sorry.. as you might have guessed I bought it to shoot at f8 etc. The Perkeo 2 is sharper wide open hence the repeated comment as if both at say f8 the Perkeo 1 is just as good. If you want to shoot wide open get the 2.

[@zanani57]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom You mean to differentiate between Vaskar and Color-Skopar (I think). Perkeo I, II and III all came in both Vaskar and Color-Skopar versions. Even if the Skopar is better than the Vaskar it is still "soft" wide open, in addition to that it is very hard to focus correctly for close objects which will show at 3.5.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@zanani57 yes Skopar better wide open, both good stopped down, I use rangefinder to judge distance

[@SydneyMud]

I have got the push on yellow filter too. (I actually also have focar 1 and 2). Problem is, is there a 32mm ND or push on? And whats that wood handle thing you stick to your P II

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi I use the yellow push on like you. I've not tried other filters with them. The stuck on wood was done by a previous owner. You don't need that, it just adds weight.

[@innstikk]

Very nice. The price has inflated now 2 years later, so it would be interesting to compare it to the Mamiya six automat folding (not the Mamiya 6) that has coupled rangefinder built in.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Perkeo is smaller, Mamiya is more useful with RF. Not sure about optics. I have the later Mamiya 6 (with 3 lenses)

[@innstikk]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I read up on Mamiya and found it was very prone to fungus and haze. So I bought a Perkeo II and 3 different external rangefinders (Telex, AICO and Rondo) with meter scale. Hopefully at least one will work. One I have to calibrate according to seller. Almost all external rangefinders on ebay has only feet scale which I just cannot be bothered with...

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@innstikk good idea. Yes I got meters and feet ones to suit all situations.

[@marike1100]

@@innstikk It seems to me that finding either a Mamiya 6 Automat or Perkeo that doesn’t have fungus, haze or both is a challenge.

[@michelk5]

That was the video i was looking for! Thank you Matt!

[@michelk5]

I would like to add that often these leaf shutter cameras can have the slow shutter speeds not working. Mine does not work slower than 1/25, but i don't need those shutter speeds anyway. I use a very accurate external range finder as well called combi-meter, for portraits or hyper focal distance for landscape photography. Happy to hear that the color skopar can be as good as more expensive high end lenses. I was curious to hear from you!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Michel. See I do listen to my subscribers! :)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks yes even the Vaskar is very good stopped down. Good point about leaf shutter lenses & finders.

[@henrybn14ar]

There is a huge stock of old folding 120 roll film cameras in the three sizes they were made. The lens quality ranges from rotten to excellent. An important factor is the design of the struts which support the lens panel, which range from sloppy to perfectly rigid. These vary from make to make and different models from the same manufacturer. Agfa cameras with the Solinar lens are good. Ensign are solid but opinions differ as to the Xpres lens. Pre war uncoated lenses are soft and prone to flare but you might like the effect. The Prontor or Compur shutters are the most reliable but will need to be serviced if the camera has not been used for a long time. These are going to be at least 60 years old. It is a big subject .

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Henry. Agreed! I have a Agfa Billy 2 + Solinar but sadly I bought a clean 'dud' camera despite them saying it worked. Lens is jammed so wont focus. So I bought a Bessa I instead. ..for 6x9 stuff.. to go with my Moskva5 :)

[@aussiecryptomaniac]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom In terms of pocketable 120 folders some good ones to look for are the Dacora II, Ventura 66 Deluxe and my favourite the Balda Super Baldax with either of the f/2.9 lenses. Slightly larger I have the Mamiya 6 IVb, and the Agfa Super Isolette and the Iskra are great for portraits. But my strongest advice would be to get any old folder you buy serviced as they have often been sitting unloved for 20-30 years and like any vintage mechanical device need a service. A lens hood is a must, so you need to learn about Kodak's "Series" filter system as they fit most old folders and are cheaper than trying to find original manufacturers filters and lens hoods.

[@nolansnook1268]

I just captured a Perkeo II. Can anyone recommend a service shop in the U.S. for a CLA?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@nolansnook1268 Congrats, I can't but hopefully someone will answer. If not ask on one of the Facebook film groups.

[@nolansnook1268]

Also, just found a nice Voigtlander Rangefinder accessory, but I had to buy a mint Zeiss Ikon Nettar to get it. I have to be careful watching your inspirational reviews Matt :)

[@kiwichem4336]

although yes i do agree with you this camera is super compact though i dont think its more compact than a leica m6 as i think the size of the film and how many exposures you can take on it also comes into consideration the 35mm format is pretty small and you can take 36 exposures on it with 1 roll that beats the 120 film by a long shot as it is bigger and on 6x6 you can only take like 14 exposures if i remember correctly although yes the resolution is much higher i would still say the leica is more compact

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Kiwi, you can see the size comparison in the cover photo. The M6 without a lens isn't huge. You get 12 photos on a 6x6 camera FYI but much high resolution of course.

[@jonglass]

I love the grip you have on your Perkeo 2. I'd love to have one on my Perkeo. Where did you get it? Also, I think the color-skopar was supposed to be that it was made for shooting color film. The coatings were for better color accuracy. At least, that is what I have read in my searchings. But I've seen lots of color photos shot with the Vascar lenses, so I'm not sure how much the coating helps. :-)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Jon,the grip was someone’s DIY job so I can’t help you with that I’m afraid. It just adds a little weight and it’s permanent so I can’t remove it without the camera looking worse. Agree re.Skopar lens and colour, in theory. People still shot Colour film with the Vaskar but yes in theory the Skopar should be nicer.

[@jonglass]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Aha. Well thanks. I may have to try and hack my own too.

[@rewahl]

...the Color-Skopar is a Tessar-Type. I use a Perkeo II as well. But I have also a Agfa Isolette II with a solinar (also a very brilliantTessar-Type) These objectives are well buildet with excellent quality. But the perkeo is realy the smallest 6x6 camera. With a fast film you can reach a big bof for spontaneous street fotography.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks yes I love their size! I will use mine again after lockdown

[@JensABraun]

Just looking on eBay Germany. Thanks your english - the price is still ok 😊😂

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Jens, Good luck! :)

[@DonWood]

Loved the video 👍❤️

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

thanks Don!

[@odessa_in_heart3730]

I've just bought the same Voightlander Shoe mount Rangefinder. I can adjust the horizontal axis. However, the image is doubled along the vertical axis. Do you have the same on your rangefinder?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi i've not tried adjusting mine as i'm not that skilled for DIY! Mine seem to work but they arrived like that.

[@stefanisaacs667]

Bought one of these back in 2005. Lovely pictures from it. Glad you discovered it as well.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Stefan! Yes I was happy to discover it during my reading. I bet you got a great price at that time!

[@iamevate]

What do you mean by «if you strip the lens down?»

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi it's what people say in the UK when they take something to pieces (normally clean it etc) then put it back together after. Strip down = take off things. (Normally relates to like car engines etc) :)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

✅ Check Prices on eBay: (Com) ebay.to/2BEfNkz (Co.uk) ebay.to/3844lLg ▶️ Watch Next: Medium Format Cameras (Playlist) - kzbin.info/aero/PLQrNLZpnEw8BFA8u9UoNTtACseHAj7qsO ⭐️ Patreon: Support the channel from as little as £1 a month - www.patreon.com/mrleicacom

[@kevin-parratt-artist]

Matt .. What is the name on that rangefinder? You are always shaking your hands around, so much that it's almost impossible to grab a screenshot.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Sorry older video. If it’s the silver one it’s the video title - Perkeo (great little camera!)

[@albertabdul-barrwang3494]

I love these folders!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks yes I think they offer great value! I wish I knew of them earlier ha :)

[@twizz420]

My grandf6ț4ather recently passed away and I found a mint condition Perkeo I in his stuff, with a leather camera case and leather camera bag, a flasher, light meter, etc.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Bong Jovi sorry to hear your news. This is a great camera that still works today..I use 2 of them.

[@kelvinp.coleman563]

11:22 and 11:24... dare we ask where? Black and white at the right time of day seems to do the trick, anyway.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Kelvin Coleman Sopot Poland, probably early morning on a run before the models arrive.

[@kelvinp.coleman563]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Ooh, convenient! I've got a friend in Gdańsk who I've been meaning to visit...

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Kelvin Coleman Gdansk is better for photos but unless I have a first model cancel I do t normal have time to get that far along the coast. If you see my ..I think Ilford pan 400 video you will see photos shot between Sopot and Gdansk..from memory and then more linked in the blog post below the video. (you’ll see the power plant with the train, beach etc..)

[@alanma3864]

Wow a camera I can afford!!! Thanks!!!!!!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Ha thanks Alan, i'm not bias towards the expensive cameras but i've probably done videos on more popular cameras first which are often more pricey.

[@roninseattle]

nice video, do you know the filter size?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Ron, Did I not mention in the video? I normally write it on the screen. It’s a 32mm push on that I use on both cameras. Sorry if I forgot to.

[@pedromendonca2963]

Nice review Matt. I'm looking for a 6x6 folder. It would be interesting to compare a Mamiya Six (folder) with these Voigtlanders Perkeo. Cheers

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Pedro Mendonça thanks Pedro, I cant promise that review but if I get a M Six I will of course. 👍🏻

[@pedromendonca2963]

2:48 Is that a wood grip on the Perkeo ?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi sorry I replied yesterday but it didn't go through.. it is a wooden grip but it's just a DIY setup that the previous owner made for the camera and attached. It adds some size and weight.

[@rarknivesandleatherwork8045]

Some interesting prices as of April 2021, £135 for a vaskar mark 1, £300 for a mint Vaskar E and £500 for a mint boxed Skopar E. All from EU countries so import to pay as well. Sadly not the bargain they used to be.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes in the last year many of the camera prices have gone up during lockdown sadly.

[@rarknivesandleatherwork8045]

I think probably still worth the £135 for the mark 1. However I've just picked up a similar looking Balda camera for £20 for my first steps with 120 film.

[@jeremykeller211]

Fine photos: you are talented! For this review: far too many repetitions--size, weight, price. No attention to shutter, no analysis of lens (Cooke triplet?). One question: the little red window on the 1 came from the days of orthochromatic film (before your time.) The current film is the more sensitive panchromatic. Do you find that the red window has any effect on your negatives? My Zeiss folder has no red window...and a built-in rangefinder!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Jeremy, sorry for the repetition and omissions. I've not seen issues with the red window so far. Yes some of my other folders have a VF/RF but i'm a sucker for the small size of these!

[@jeremykeller211]

Good morning, sir! Thanks for another good one. I was intrigued by your review of the Perkeos, but I had several latent questions: 1) The red window was designed for use with pre panchromatic films in the 1950s. Do you find that it affects the films that you use? (I use relatively sensitive Kodak Tri X ISO 400 developed in Kodak's amazing HC 110.) My Zeiss Ikonta III has a metal door that takes the place of the red window and basically serves as a way of verifying if there is film in the camera. 2) You don't mention the shutter. I would want to know about its quality and its range. What is the fastest speed available? 3) You don't mention the optical limitations of the lens' front focusing element, which I imagine might cause problems with your fine photos of models. I generally set my Zeiss focus on infinity, as I tend to use it for landscape pictures. Your most telling point is the difference between the folder's size, weight, and price compared to modern equivalents. Well done!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi Jeremy, please excuse my delayed reply. I've not noticed any problems with the red window, I think shutter speed goes to 1/500 but i've not used for a while so you might be better to Google it. This is not a model camera, no good for that at all as not RF coupled. Amazing for a walkabout pocket camera and travel. That is how I will use it... when we are allowed more than 5 miles from our homes!