Argus C3

Specification

Art Deco Credentials

Acceptable: Modest and restricted

• Produced after the main Art Deco period.
• Design based on 1939 model C
• Rectilinear Block Design
• Black Bakelite solid body
• Chrome edges and detailing
• Chrome shutter release and film door catch

Description

The C3 was introduced in October 1939. It was an improved version of the Argus C (1938–9) and C2 (1938–42) and was by far the most successful selling approximately 2 million units during its 27-year production run. All three models shared the same "brick" design. The improvements were a coupled rangefinder, first seen on the C2 and added built-in flash synchronization. With it's "scientific" appearance it developed a reputation for rugged durability and sharp, high-quality images.

The C3 is constructed using Bakelite and metal castings. A simple diaphragm shutter is built into the camera body to allow interchangeable lenses without the need for a complex focal plane shutter. The rangefinder is separate from the viewfinder and is coupled to the lens through a series of gears. The camera comes equipped with a 50mm f/3.5 Cintar anastigmat triplet lens. A button is pressed to allow the film to be advanced to the next frame. Film advance is not coupled to the shutter release so double exposure is possible. It has a frame counter. It has a tripod mount.

The basic C3 model had only minor revisions from its introduction until it was discontinued in 1966. The number of shutter speeds was lowered progressively from ten to five, an accessory shoe was added, and the exposure reminder dial on the back of the camera was removed.

How to Use

Find the user manual here:- Argus C3 Manual.

The first thing to note is that the lever for arming the shutter is on the front, right where you want to rest your fingers when taking a picture. It's so easy to have your fingers in the way when the shutter fires. This will slow up the shutter and cause overexposure. Get used to putting your fingers below the shutter priming lever before you release the shutter.

If you don't want to bother with an exposure meter, follow the guide shown. It is based on the 'Sunny 16' rule. It shows the appropriate aperture settings for shutter speeds of 1/30s, 1/50s, 1/100s and 1/200s being the favourite speeds to use. Film is so forgiving and will produce acceptable results even when overexposed by 2 or 3 stops or underexposed by 1 stop.

Photographs taken with this Camera

Kodak Gold 200 film.
Developed in Tetenal.