1938-1948 / Kodak 35 / Vintage Camera

The Kodak 35, produced from 1938 to 1948, was Kodak’s first American-made 35mm camera, notable for its solid construction with a Bakelite body and chromed metal accents, a collapsible optical viewfinder, and oversized film advance and rewind knobs. Designed to use standard 135 film and created in response to looming World War II import concerns, the camera featured several lens and shutter options, including the Kodak Anastigmat 51mm f/4.5 and the Anastigmat Special 51mm f/3.5, both offering simple controls for amateur photographers. The back completely removed for film loading, and the film advance system incorporated a double exposure prevention mechanism, though it was somewhat primitive by modern standards. Earlier models were recognized for their black Bakelite knobs, while later versions included metal or white plastic knobs and, postwar, included flash synchronization. Although regarded as well-built and optically superior to many competitors, the Kodak 35 never outsold rivals like the Argus C series, in part due to its higher price and absence of a rangefinder in the original version.​