Another Unexpected Arrival – A Kodak Retinette Type 022

Introduction
I am occasionally gifted cameras. One of my latest was a Kodak Retinette (Type 022). The following is based upon the information available from a variety of sources plus my personal observations. I will attempt to highlight its strengths and weaknesses.

The Kodak Retinette (Type 022) is a 35mm viewfinder camera produced by Kodak AG in Stuttgart, Germany, from 1954 to 1958. It was a member of the Kodak Retinette series, which was designed as a simpler and more affordable alternative to the more advanced Retina cameras similar to the one mentioned in my previous post.

The Retinette is a well-built camera with a sleek design. The bottom-mount film advance lever and back release are identical to those found on some Retinas.

Lens
My camera is equipped with a Schneider-Kreuznach Reomar 45mm f/3.5, fixed lens. Other lenses were also used depending on the specific model. The lens is notable for its sharpness and decent performance, especially considering the camera’s was aimed at the consumer market. Focussing is from 3.5 ft to infinity. Focusing is zone-based, meaning users have to estimate the distance and set it manually on the lens.

Shutter
My model is fitted with a Compur-Rapid shutter with speeds from 1 second to 1/500 sec plus ‘B’.

SPECIFICATIONS
Model	Retinette (type 022)
Year	1954-1958
Format	35mm
Shutter	Compur-Rapid
Speed	B,1,2,4,8,15,30,60,125,250,500
Lens	Schneider-Kreuznach Reomar
	f3.5 45mm
Focus	3.5 ft to ∞
Aperture	f3.5 to 22
Light Meter	No
Rangefinder	No

Strengths

Build Quality: The Retinette (Type 022) is well-built, which has contributed to its longevity and reliability. The construction is such that it gives a robust feel to the camera.
Lens Performance: The Kodak-Anastigmat lens is known for its clarity and sharpness, delivering good image quality for its time and class.
Compact and Portable: Its relatively small size and light weight.
Manual Controls: The camera allows for manual adjustments of aperture and shutter speed, giving creative control over images.
Ease of Use: The simple design and straightforward controls make it easy to use.

Weaknesses

Lack of Rangefinder: The absence of a rangefinder means that focusing relies on the photographer’s skill to estimate distances accurately, which some may find challenging.
Viewfinder Limitations: The viewfinder is basic and lacks parallax correction, making precise composition more difficult, especially for close-up subjects.
Fixed Lens: The inability to change lenses limits the camera’s versatility compared to interchangeable lens systems.
Shutter Speed Range: While adequate for general use, the maximum shutter speed of 1/500sec can be limiting for fast-moving subjects or very bright conditions depending upon the choice of film speed.

Conclusion

The Kodak Retinette (Type 022) is a noteworthy example of mid-20th century consumer cameras. Its strengths lie in its robust build, sharp lens, and ease of use, making it a popular choice among amateur photographers of its time. However, the lack of advanced features like a rangefinder and interchangeable lenses, along with some limitations in focusing and shutter speeds, made it is less suited for professional or highly technical photography.

For collectors and vintage camera enthusiasts, the Retinette (Type 022) offers a functional piece of photographic history and provides a straightforward and enjoyable shooting experience for those prepared to take the time.

I have run a short length of Fomapan 100 film through this camera and the results have certainly met with my expectations.