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Vintage Refurbished [ℹ]

Polaroid SX-70 Sonar PolaSonic AutoFocus Conceptual Prototype Folding Instant Film Camera

Sale price$ 1,499 Regular price$ 1,999

This prototype camera is likely a toolroom mockup, using available parts, and is a one-of-a-kind example of the prototyping of what would become the SLR 680. This is evidenced by the very "handmade" nature of the modifications, with plastic milled away and grafted on.

While this camera features a first iteration of the iconic SLR 680 flash housing, the circuitry contained within is incomplete - probably removed at the end of the prototyping phase. Thus, this camera functions only as an ambient-program camera.

Additionally, as part of the mockup, the engineers quickly modified the existing SX-70 Sonar covers to make room for the flash prototype. This is evidenced by clear seam-lines where plastic was parred away and new forms added.

Please note as well that this camera is calibrated for SX-70 film.

This camera was acquired from a former Polaroid employee in Boston.

Because this camera is a prototype, it should be handled with extreme care. Most of the parts are custom-made, or were modified to fit this camera specifically. Thus, any breakage of those parts from rough handling would not be repairable. This camera is part of our 90-day warranty in which we will guarantee the function of its ambient photography capabilities, but we do not hold a warranty on any cosmetics or the non-functional flash assembly/mechanism.

Specs
Brand Polaroid
Color Black
Film

Polaroid SX-70 instant film
(sold separately) [shop]

Film Size Image 3.1 x 3.1 in
Image with border 4.2 x 3.5 in
Lens 116mm f/8
Focus Manual
Viewfinder Single lens reflex (SLR)
Exposure Control Automatic, with manual +/- 1EV lighten/darken wheel
Shutter Release Electronic, automatic shutter speeds of 1/175 to 14 seconds
Flash Prototype, non-functional
Battery Built into film cartridge