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Bolta Photavit IV
France Version française
Photos by JPG text by JPG. From the collection of JPG. Last update 2024-02-02 par Sylvain Halgand.

Manufactured or assembled in Germany from 1947 to (After) 1947.
Index of rarity in France: Rare (among non-specialized garage sales)
Inventory number: 10451

See the complete technical specifications

Chronology of cameras Bolta 

The Photavit succeeded the Boltavit when the company changed its name from Bolta-Werk to Photavit-Werk in 1937. The initial models under the new name retained the appearance of the Boltavit and used a special Bolta film.
Quickly, the camera underwent complete modification. The new Photavit cameras remained compact, but switched to using 35 mm film loaded into a special cartridge with the help of a brand-specific winder. The negatives measured 24 x 24 mm. The cartridge was smaller than the 135 format and did not require rewinding.
The camera was made of duralumin. The viewfinder was integrated into the cover, initially partially covering and gradually extending over the top of the camera. The lens was retractable, with the shutter release on the body, requiring a somewhat complex transmission to the shutter release lever located on the shutter.

After the war, Photavit released a version using 828 (Bantam) film. This version was short-lived, as the film was already becoming obsolete.

There were at least five generations, with each featuring numerous combinations of lenses and shutters. Some versions had a slightly golden hue.

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The shutter of this specimen is a Compur-Rapid, which allows us to determine that it is a post-war model.

A metal plate is attached to the back. It represents a flash shooting aid chart. It includes aperture settings on one side and distances on the other.

A small square metal lens hood seems to have been provided with the camera. A small leather case, dedicated to this accessory, is to be attached to the strap of the case.

This small camera is very beautiful. It has excellent craftsmanship and perfect finishing.

A superb achievement, stemming from the German photographic expertise before the war.

One of my favorite cameras. Purchased in Strasbourg, as a "second-hand" item, from a traditional photo store, around 1985.

Bolta Photavit IV





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