Ansco Anscoflex I

Photos by PF text by Jacques Bratières. From the collection of Jacques Bratières. Last update 2023-10-30 par Jacques Bratieres.

Manufactured or assembled in USA from (Circa) 1954 to (Circa) 1956.
Index of rarity in France: Rare (among non-specialized garage sales)
Inventory number: 30050

See the complete technical specifications

Chronology of cameras Ansco

The Anscoflex I is a mechanically surprising camera. It's a metal (aluminum?) body, enameled in a slightly greenish gray color, featuring a large advance and wind knob, a small red metal shutter release button, and an aluminum front curtain protecting the viewfinder and lens.

The curtain lever opens the two top flaps that cover the large viewfinder. These flaps are controlled by two small rivets moving within internally complex-shaped slots in the curtain. Two small springs allow the flaps to fold back when closing. Next to the viewfinder, a red push-button controls the opening of the camera back.

The curtain has an edge for easy handling. Finally, the camera is protected against double exposures, and the advance/wind knob is a convenient back-and-forth movement. There are no settings on this camera.

It's a beautiful, innovative camera well designed by the French-American designer Raymond Loewy.

It's interesting to note that the initial selling point in the camera's description is its construction in plastic (although it's actually made of metal!). The design elements follow this initial mention.

The catalog describes it as a new economical camera. Indeed, its price, $15.95, stands far apart from that of the Regent ($54).

Some time later, it will be replaced (or supplemented) by the Anscoflex II. This one is slightly more advanced, featuring an integrated yellow filter and a close-up lens.

Interesting links or bibliography :

Sur Camera-wiki.org, suggested by Sylvain Halgand

Add a link or element of bibliography, a picture taken with this camera, a picture of box or an ads about this camera

Your photos taken with the same camera: