Genos Fix
Specification
| Manufacturer | : | Genos Kamerabau |
|---|---|---|
| Produced | : | 1950 |
| Classification | : | Medium Format |
| Body Type | : | Solid Body |
| Construction | : | Bakelite |
| Film Type | : | 127 |
| Film Width | : | 46mm |
| Image Size | : | 40 x 65 mm |
| No. of Images | : | 8 |
| Lens Type | : | Meniscus |
| Focal Length | : | 60mm |
| Focus Type | : | Fixed |
| Focus Range | : | 10ft to inf |
| Aperture Type | : | Fixed |
| Aperture | : | f/11 |
| Shutter Type | : | Rotary |
| Shutter Speeds | : | T,I*(1/100 sec) |
| Size (w x h x d) | : | 75 x 95 x 84mm |
| Weight | : | 223g |
| * Measured on this camera | ||
Art Deco Credentials
Noteworthy: Worth giving special attention
- Produced after the main Art Deco period
- Sarcophagus shaped Bakelite
- Symmetrical curvilinear shape
- Streamline Moderne design
- Triple line detailing in Bakelite body
- Triangular detailing around the viewfinder
Description
The Genos Fix was made in Germany by Genos Kamerabau around 1950. It has a resemblance to the contemporary Bilora Boy. The Bakelite is molded into a sarcophagus shape which was probably inspired by the discovery of the Egyption King Tutankhamun. The Art Deco movement drew heavily on Egyption culture. It exhibits a Streamline Moderne design which was prevalent in the late 30s and 40s.
The camera produces eight 4.5 X 6 cm exposures on 127 film. There are no settings except instant(M) and time(Z) exposure for the shutter. A threaded cable release socket is provided. There is an eye level viewfinder which is so small, it is difficult to frame your subject accurately. When using the camera normally, it prooduces a portrait type image. It has a fixed focus lens with a single aperture of f/11. 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 127 film which is still available from select outlets - search for 'Rera Pan 100-127' which is a black & white film. For those photographers in the UK, try Nick & Trick photographic services. If you want to use a particular type of film which is not available commercially, then you can cut your own 127 film from any 120 film. See my page on 'How to cut 127 film from 120 film'.
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 face.
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 Conditions | Shadow Detail | Aperture | Exposure |
|---|---|---|---|
 SunnySnow/Sand | Dark with sharp edges | f/11 | +2 Stops Overexposed Acceptable |
| Sunny | Distinct | f/11 | +1 Stop Overexposed Acceptable |
 Slight Overcast | Soft around edges | f/11 | Good |
 Overcast | Barely visible | f/11 | -1 Stop Underexposed Acceptable |
 Heavy Overcast | None | f/11 | -2 Stops Underexposed Not Acceptable |
 Open Shade/Sunset | None | f/11 | -3 Stops Underexposed Not Acceptable |