Introduction
These are compact 35 mm. cameras with
self-erecting folding fronts.
Cameras
Vito
I (1940)
Vito
II (1949) Advertisement
for Vito II from 1954
Vito
IIa (1955) Advertisement
for Vito IIa from 1957
Vito
III (1950)
Guidelines for
Purchasers
The first thing to remember is that
all Vito cameras require a film to be loaded before the
interlock will operate successfully. If there is no film,
then the mechanism to tension the shutter must be
operated carefully, by hand.
The Vito I, although an interesting
camera, is the oldest of the range, and it has the
idiosyncratic feeler spindle mechanism. It will give good
results, but cannot be recommended as a camera for
regular use, due to its age.
The Vito II and the Vito IIa will give
good results and are pleasing cameras to use. As there is
no rangefinder, many people would find a model with an
accessory shoe more convenient. Although some cameras had
a separate accessory shoe available as an extra, these
are rarely found on the second-hand market unless
accompanied by a camera.
The Vito III is the rarity of the
folding Vito cameras and potential buyers will need
fairly deep pockets. It fetches something around three to
five times the price of the average Vito IIa, and more
than that in really excellent condition. It is also the
most desirable camera for many users as it has the
high-quality, fast Ultron lens and a coupled rangefinder.
As with all second-hand cameras,
condition has a major effect on the price asked. Vito I
cameras with the filter attached fetch a premium price,
despite the fact that the camera without the filter is
more usable, in that supplementary filters or a lens hood
can be fitted.
If a camera is to be purchased for
use, it makes economic sense to buy one in less than
pristine condition as otherwise any wear and tear to the
camera could result in financial loss when the camera is
resold. It is also important to ensure that an ever-ready
case is supplied with the camera if it is to be
used.
Note that while these cameras are fun
to use, they cannot be considered as reasonable
alternatives to a modern camera for full-time use. They
are all at least forty years old and difficult, often
impossible, to repair.
Data
Section
|
Camera
|
Filter Size
|
|
Vito I - early
|
hinged
|
|
Vito I - later
|
31 mm. push-on
|
|
Vito I - later
|
29 mm. push-on
|
|
Vito II
|
29 mm. push-on
|
|
Vito IIa
|
29 mm. push-on
|
|
Vito III
|
32 mm. push-on
|
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