Exakta - Which One?

[k38]

I have always wanted to add an Exakta to my collection. I'm totally bewildered by the model numbers etc. Is there any good source of information or does anyone have an opinion as to which is the "one to get"

Thanks,

Dwight

[doubs43]

k38 said:

I have always wanted to add an Exakta to my collection. I'm totally bewildered by the model numbers etc. Is there any good source of information or does anyone have an opinion as to which is the "one to get" Thanks, Dwight

Many Exaktaphiles feel that the VXIIa is the apex of Exakta craftsmanship and quality. However, it's almost certain that one in original configuration will need a CLA and new shutter curtains. The shutter curtains were coated with rubber that is almost always dried and cracked after more than 30 years. The good news is that once the curtains have been replaced and the old lubricants cleaned out and renewed, it will work with a smoothness that has to be experienced to be believed. They are a remarkable piece of equipment.

Walker

[mickeyobe]

Dwight,

I agree with Walker. I have a VXIIa that I purchased new in 1957 and used as my only camera for over 20 years. I just recently had a CLA and the shutter curtains replaced. It is as good as new.
I think it is the most advanced of all the Exakta models having all the features for which Exakta is known. Any model after that seems to have reduced some of the features or added only cosmetics.

Mickey

[Just Plain Curt]

Definitely VXIIa if possible. I have an Exa and an VX but not quite the same as a VXIIa.

[John Parry]

Yep, the IIA is beatiful - and pricey. Around £60. Make sure you ask about the condition of the shutters. Check out this item (put the number in the search box) on eBay.

250040313111

No mention of the shutters you'll notice!

Regards - John

[SidW]

k38 said:

...... I'm totally bewildered by the model numbers etc. Is there any good source of information......

Here are some good sites with plenty of pictures:

captjack.exaktaphile.com/
www.wrotniak.net/photo/exakta/index.html
www.exakta.org/index.html

and one that brings you close to Johan Stenbergen, the founder of Ihagee:

www.ihagee.org

The first, 1936-48, was just Exakta. The next was Exakta II 1948-50. The next was Varex, a name already used by Argus in U.S.A., so it was reduced to VX or V for that market. Varex=VX=V. After that Varex IIa (VXIIa), Varex IIb (VXIIb). Finally VX1000. All of these had a family likeness in appearance, body shape etc derived from the Ihagee rollfilm Exaktas of the early 1930s. The RTL1000 (that followed the VX1000) looked like contemporary SLRs (1969-74).

Sidney

[pentaxgraflex]

I have a clean and functioning IIb that I use occasionly. The only thing I don't like about it is it does not have a finder lock like the IIa does. Other than than that, they are identical. Remember that only the VX1000 has the instant return mirror.

[bobm]

I have a clean and functioning IIb that I use occasionly. The only thing I don't like about it is it does not have a finder lock like the IIa does. Other than than that, they are identical. Remember that only the VX1000 has the instant return mirror.

Apparently there were problems with finders falling out, so they reinstated the proper locking system.

Speaking of Exakta, I've got an Exa, a late Varex IIa, a Varex IIb and a couple of VX1000s.

The VX1000 isn't quite as mechanically smooth as the IIa or IIb but is still a great bit of kit.

As for the RTL1000, there are those who opine that it's not a "true" Exakta since it was made by Pentacon, but I feel that irrespective of who made it, it's still a collectible camera in it's own right.

And it has a metal shutter.....