Zeiss Ikon Erabox
Specification
| Manufacturer | : | Zeiss Ikon |
|---|---|---|
| Produced | : | 1937 |
| Classification | : | Medium Format |
| Body Type | : | Box |
| Construction | : | Metal |
| Film Type | : | 120 |
| Film Width | : | 62mm |
| Image Size | : | 6 x 9 cm |
| No. of Images | : | 8 |
| Lens Type | : | Goerz Frontar |
| Focus Type | : | Fixed |
| Focal Length | : | 100mm |
| Focal Range | : | 3m - inf. |
| Aperture Type | : | Multihole |
| Apertures | : | f/11, f/16 |
| Shutter Type | : | Rotary |
| Shutter Speeds | : | T, I*(1/40s) |
| Size (w x h x d) | : | 83 x 110 x 115 mm |
| Weight | : | 520g |
| * 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 motif on front
- chrome shutter guard
- bright metal wind key
- Art Deco lettering
- Symmetrical face
Description
The Erabox is a substantial well-built camera. It is similar to the Baldur (854/16) box camera which was made by Zeiss Ikon from 1934. It takes 8 (6 x 9cm) pictures on 120 film. It has two bright viewfinders for landscape and portrait images. On the right-hand side there's a bright metal winding key. There are tripod mounts on the side and the base for portrait and landcape images.
On the side of the camera is the shutter release, a tab for engaging 'T' mode and a tapered cable release socket. It has a lever on the top to change the aperture giving a choice of f/11 or f/16.
How to Use
This camera takes 120 film which is widely available.
The aperture choice is f/11 or f/16. 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.
Using ISO 100/125 film - shutter speed 1/40s
| Weather Conditions | Shadow Detail | Aperture | Exposure |
|---|---|---|---|
 SunnySnow/Sand | Dark with sharp edges | f/16 | +2 Stops Overexposed Acceptable |
| Sunny | Distinct | f/16 | +1 Stops Overexposed Acceptable |
 Slight Overcast | Soft around edges | f/16 | Good |
 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 |