“K” is for Karat, and Kandor

“K” is for the Agfa Karat. It’s also for Kandor, a silly little camera by Irwin Corporation.

The Agfa Karat was designed for 35mm film in special ‘Karat-cassettes.’ Later models (post-WWII) did take the standard 35mm film cartridge. The lens popped out for use.

The Karat 6.3, by Agfa, took 35mm film in special cassettes. 1937
The Karat 6.3, by Agfa, took 35mm film in special cassettes. 1937-1938
The Karat 6.3 is among my all-time favorites, because of the art-deco front.
The Karat 6.3 is among my all-time favorites, because of the art-deco front.

Sometimes I think the Kandor candid camera happened when someone notices a bunch of empty metal boxes lying about, and decided to try to make cameras from them.

The Kandor Candid Camera, by Irwin Corporation. 1939
The Kandor Candid Camera, by Irwin Corporation. 1939
I always thought that the Kandor looked a lot like a sardine can.
I always thought that the Kandor looked a lot like a sardine can.

 

Reference: McKeown’s Price Guide to Antique and Classic Cameras, 12th edition, ISBN 0-931838-40-1

The other cameras featured in this A to Z Challenge are linked on this page.

Published by paleololigo

Scientist (Paleontology, Geochemistry, Geology); Writer (Speculative and Science Fiction, plus technical and non-technical Science); Mom to great boy on the Autism spectrum; possessor of too many hobbies.

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