Alpa 12 WA

Photos by Maxime Champion - Archives Le Photographe text by Sylvain Halgand. From the collection of -. Last update 2023-10-31 par Sylvain Halgand.

Manufactured or assembled in from 1998 to (After) 2018.
Index of rarity in France: Rare (among non-specialized garage sales)
Inventory number: 7620

See the complete technical specifications

Chronology of cameras Alpa

The Alpa 12 WA is the little sister of the 12 SWA. It does not have the option for rear tilt (hence the absence of the 'S' in its name). Like the SWA, it allows for the mounting of film backs or digital backs. Lenses can be Alpa (manufactured by Rodenstock or Schneider) or other brands thanks to adapters.

The "12" system was designed so that two bodies (one with tilt, the other without) could accommodate a multitude of viewfinders, lenses/shutters, and backs. The quality requirements are exceptionally high, with virtually zero manufacturing tolerances. Such high standards come with a cost, but they ensure the durability of this system, which remains relevant over 20 years later.

Here, with the permission of Alpa of Switzerland, I am reproducing the original diagram by Ursula Capaul and Thomas Weber from 1996 when they envisioned the modular 12 system.

Alpa of Switzerland graciously welcomed my request for reproduction, providing me with the high-definition diagram as well as photos of the 12 WA and the 12 SWA.

(Photo Alpa of Switzerland, reproduced with the permission of the company)
Alpa 12 WA

(Drawing of Alpa of Switzerland, reproduced with the permission of the company)

Interesting links or bibliography :

20ème anniversaire des Alpa 12 SWA et WA, suggested by Sylvain Halgand

Catalogue de la société Alpa, suggested by Sylvain Halgand

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