Zeiss Ikon Baby-Box Tengor
Specification
| Manufacturer | : | Zeiss Ikon |
|---|---|---|
| Produced | : | 1934 |
| Classification | : | Miniature |
| Body Type | : | Box |
| Construction | : | Metal |
| Film Type | : | 127 |
| Film Width | : | 46mm |
| Image Size | : | 3 x 4 cm |
| No. of Images | : | 16 |
| Lens Type | : | Goerz Frontar |
| Focus Type | : | Fixed |
| Focal Length | : | 50mm |
| Focal Range | : | 3m - inf. |
| Aperture Type | : | Fixed |
| Apertures | : | f/11 |
| Shutter Type | : | Rotary |
| Shutter Speeds | : | T, I*(1/40s) |
| Size (w x h x d) | : | 70 x 80 x 62 mm |
| Size incl. viewfinder (w x h x d) | : | 70 x 105 x 62 mm |
| Weight | : | 250g |
| * Measured on this camera | ||
Art Deco Credentials
Noteworthy: Worth giving special attention
I consider this camera to warrant 3 stars for the following attributes:
- produced during the main Art Deco period
- elongated hexagonal lens plate
- chrome shutter guard
- chrome tommy-bar wind key
- lined detailing in leatherette around the front
- Symmetrical face
Description
The Baby-Box is a sweet little camera that you can't help but love. It takes 16 pictures, each 3x4cm, on 127 film. The viewfinder consists of a flip-up rear sight and a wire frame that pulls up out of the front of the camera. On the right-hand side there's a tommy-bar for winding on. There is a tripod mount on the side and the base for portrait and landcape images. It has two red windows. For the first frame you wind until the number 1 appears in the lower window and for the second frame you wind until the number 1 appears in the upper window. You then repeat for 2-8 giving 16 half-frames.
On the side of the camera is the shutter release, a tab for engaging 'B' mode and a tapered cable release socket. Important - The shutter release won't work unless the front frame is pulled up. There is a tripod socket on the base.
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.
The aperture is f/11. The measured speed on this camera was 1/40s. As the shutter speed is only 1/40s, it is advisable to use a tripod to get clear shake free images. However, holding it against a wall or other solid object would work as well. For quick snapshots, hold it firmly against your body.
The table shows how this camera will perform using ISO 100 film. It is based on the 'Sunny 16' rule. Modern 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 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.
So, simplicity itself. Just load film and snap away.
Using ISO 100 film - shutter speed 1/40s
| Weather Conditions | Shadow Detail | Aperture | Exposure |
|---|---|---|---|
 SunnySnow/Sand | Dark with sharp edges | f/11 | +3 Stops Overexposed Acceptable |
| Sunny | Distinct | f/11 | +2 Stops Overexposed Acceptable |
 Slight Overcast | Soft around edges | f/11 | +1 Stop Overexposed Acceptable |
 Overcast | Barely visible | f/11 | Good |
 Heavy Overcast | None | f/11 | -1 Stop Underexposed Acceptable |
 Open Shade/Sunset | None | f/11 | -2 Stops Underexposed Not Acceptable |