OddCameras.com
Kochmann Korelle 3x4
The
Kochmann Korelle are strut-folding rollfilm cameras for 127 film, first
released by Kochmann, Dresden, Germany in 1931. The Korelle name was
first used on the 3×4cm model, which was
followed by a 4×6.5cm model. Cameras for 120 film in 4.5×6cm and 6×6cm
size were also made under the same name.
127
format film
was introduced by Kodak in 1912 for their Vest Pocket
folding camera, a very compact alternative to their 120 film folders.
127 format became very popular and it made even a comeback during the
1950s for small inexpensive cameras like the Brownies, until the 135
film cartridge became the standard for amateurs and kicked the film out
of the market. Kodak stopped producing 127 film in 1995 and most other
manufacterers followed, but the film is still available, nevertheless
it's expensive.
127 is a roll film, 46 mm wide. Frame number markings for the 4×4
and
4×6.5 image formats are printed on the backing paper, whereas 4×3
cameras have two red windows, so you move the number of the 4×6 frame
to the first and then to the second window. A roll gives 8 exposures in
4x6.5, 12 in 4x4 and 16 in 4x3. There are sophisticated cutting systems
to cut 127 size from 120 film. You will need some original spools. If
you can put your hands on old backing paper, this could be helpful.
The Korelle 3×4 camera was first introduced as Korette, but was renamed shortly after the launch. The
front of the camera is self-erecting on its struts when you press a
button on the body. This also releases the folding viewfinder, a simple
pair of metal frames. Distance is set via a lever towards the top which
has to be turned to the right if you look at the camera. It moves the
whole shutter unit out by 5mm.
Lens: Schneider Xenar 1:3.5 5cm F3.5-22, closest focus 0.75m
Shutter: Compur 1-1/300 B T
Weight: 357gr.
Size: 108x74x39 (65)
Some photos:
Camera closed.
Back side. 2 red windows for the half format.
Unfolded, landscape format. There is a little folding stand.
Unfolded, lens unit moved out to closest distance.
Lens and shutter.
Back open.
Camera and leather case.
The camera works like an ordinary 120 folder. There is a button to
unfold it. To close you have to fold the struts and press. Because of
the half format frame numbers are first moved to the first red window,
then to the second and then you look at the first window again for the next
number.