Kodak Retina Iia Type 016 Rangefinder Camera Appraisal

Kodak Retina IIa (Type 016) Rangefinder Camera

This is a vintage Kodak Retina IIa, a high-quality 35mm folding rangefinder camera manufactured in Germany by Kodak AG Stuttgart between 1951 and 1954. The top plate is clearly engraved with the 'Retina IIa' script and features a cold shoe accessory mount with a visible serial number (approx. 692839). The body construction features a robust metal chassis with satin chrome trimmings and textured black leatherette covering. Key visible elements include the film rewind knob with a manual film speed reminder dial (showing vintage film stocks like Kodachrome and Super XX), a shutter release button, and the film advance lever which was a major ergonomic improvement for this specific model. The camera shows moderate signs of use and age-related patina, including some scuffing on the chrome finish and minor oxidation. The leatherette appears intact but may show slight lifting at the edges. This model is highly regarded by collectors for its compact, 'pocketable' design when folded and its legendary Schneider-Kreuznach or Rodenstock optics (though the lens and bellows are hidden in this view). The craftsmanship reflects post-WWII German precision engineering, and the presence of the original metal neck strap lug indicates it has been handled carefully.