Argus C3 Rangefinder Camera
The Argus C3, commonly known as 'The Brick' due to its distinctively rectangular and heavy Bakelite body, is a classic American 35mm rangefinder camera produced between 1939 and 1966. This specific unit features a black textured synthetic covering with chrome-plated metal accents. The front façade prominently displays the 'argus' logo in a raised metal plaque. Key technical components include the iconic geared rangefinder system with a circular 'Range Finder' dial on the upper left and a shutter speed dial on the upper right. It is equipped with an Argus 50mm f/3.5 Cintar lens, which shows characteristic circular rings for aperture and focus adjustments. The camera's construction is rugged, designed for mass-market durability. Condition-wise, the camera appears remarkably well-preserved with minor age-appropriate surface oxidation on the chrome trim and some light dust accumulation around the dials. The leatherette covering seems intact without significant peeling or 'green' corrosion typical of these models. The lens glass appears clear in the photo, though internal shutter functionality and rangefinder alignment cannot be determined without physical testing. This mid-20th-century icon represents a significant era in affordable hobbyist photography.
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Estimated Value
$40-$65
Basic Information
Category
Vintage Photographic Equipment
Appraised On
January 14, 2026
Estimated Value
$40-$65
Item Description
The Argus C3, commonly known as 'The Brick' due to its distinctively rectangular and heavy Bakelite body, is a classic American 35mm rangefinder camera produced between 1939 and 1966. This specific unit features a black textured synthetic covering with chrome-plated metal accents. The front façade prominently displays the 'argus' logo in a raised metal plaque. Key technical components include the iconic geared rangefinder system with a circular 'Range Finder' dial on the upper left and a shutter speed dial on the upper right. It is equipped with an Argus 50mm f/3.5 Cintar lens, which shows characteristic circular rings for aperture and focus adjustments. The camera's construction is rugged, designed for mass-market durability. Condition-wise, the camera appears remarkably well-preserved with minor age-appropriate surface oxidation on the chrome trim and some light dust accumulation around the dials. The leatherette covering seems intact without significant peeling or 'green' corrosion typical of these models. The lens glass appears clear in the photo, though internal shutter functionality and rangefinder alignment cannot be determined without physical testing. This mid-20th-century icon represents a significant era in affordable hobbyist photography.
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