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Art Deco Cameras

Genos Rapid

Specification


Genos Rapid
Genos Rapid
Manufacturer: Genos Kamerabau
Produced: 1950
Classification:Medium Format
Body Type:Pseudo TLR
Construction:Bakelite
Film Type:120
Film Width:62mm
Image Size:60 x 60 mm
No. of Images:12
Lens Type:Meniscus
Focal Length:80mm
Focus Type:Fixed
Focus Range:10ft to inf
Aperture Type :Variable Stops
Aperture :f/11, f/16
Shutter Type:Rotary
Shutter Speeds:T,I*(1/100 sec)
Size (w x h x d):90 x 115 x 100mm
Weight:383g
* Measured on this camera

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Description

The Genos Rapid was made in Germany by Genos Kamerabau around 1950. It exhibits a Streamline Moderne design with rounded corners which was prevalent in the late 30s and 40s.

The camera produces twelve 6 X 6 cm exposures on 120 film. All the settings can be adjusted quickly by moving the 3 levers on the front face of the camera. Maybe this is why it is called 'Rapid'. The time settings are instant(M) and time(Z). It has a fixed focus lens and the aperture settings are N(f/11) and T(f/16). A yellow filter can either in omitted(O) or in place(G). The shutter release is on top of the camera which is threaded for the connection of a Leica type remote cable release. There is a waist level viewfinder which is large, making it easy to frame your subject accurately.

The camera can be described as a pseudo twin lens reflex camera. It isn't a true TLR because the top lens is just part of the viewfinder and does not aid focussing. Film advance is by red window. There is a tripod socket on the base. The camera is kept closed by spring clips on each side.

How to Use

This camera takes 120 film which is easily available from most camera outlets.

As the shutter speed is only 1/100s, it is advisable to hold it against a wall or other solid object to get shake free images. For quick snapshots, hold it firmly against your body.

If you don't want to bother with an exposure meter, follow the guide shown. It is based on the 'Sunny 16' rule. Film is so forgiving and will produce acceptable results even when overexposed by 2 or 3 stops or underexposed by 1 stop.

The tables assume that the sun is at least 30 degrees above the horizon - that's 10am - 5pm on a summers day (May - August) in the UK.

Remember that the exposure guide in the manual may not be helpful as it is based on the use of old film with a low ISO value.

Using ISO 100/125 film - shutter speed 1/100s

Weather ConditionsShadow DetailApertureExposure
Sunny
Snow/Sand
Dark
with sharp edges
f/16+1 Stops
Overexposed
Acceptable
SunnyDistinctf/16Good
Slight OvercastSoft around edgesf/11Good
OvercastBarely visiblef/11-1 Stop
Underexposed
Acceptable
Heavy OvercastNonef/11-2 Stops
Underexposed
Not Acceptable
Open Shade
/Sunset
Nonef/11-3 Stops
Underexposed
Not Acceptable