Photographica Pages

An online guide to collectable cameras and related stuff

Alpa Prisma Reflex

The Alpa was amongst the first cameras to employ a roof prism to produce an eye level image right side up and not a mirror image. It is unusual that the finder is viewed at a 45 degree angle, rather than 90 degrees, making the camera more convenient when taking close-up photos.

Like previous models, the rangefinder is a horizontal design, the shutter is a cloth focal plane wound be a knob, and the exposed metal surfaces of the body are finished in bright chrome.

This model was produced from 1949-52. Total production was 935 units, 305 of which had a two pin flash synchronization on the lower front of the camera. Serial numbers fall between 22000 and 25000.