Ansco Sears Marvel S20
Art Deco Credentials ⓘ
Bold, geometric cameras from Deco’s golden age
Noteworthy: Distinct Deco elements worth attention
- Produced at end of the main Art Deco period;
- Geometric Art Deco front panel;
- Chrome finder surrounds
- Nickel winder, and strap posts;
- Symmetrical face.
Specification
| Manufacturer | : | Kodak - US |
|---|---|---|
| Produced | : | c.1940 |
| Classification | : | Medium Format |
| Body Type | : | Box |
| Construction | : | Cardboard/Metal |
| Film Type | : | 120 |
| Film Width | : | 62mm |
| Image Size | : | 2¼ x 3¼ in |
| No. of Images | : | 8 |
| Lens Type | : | Meniscus |
| Focus Type | : | Fixed |
| Focal Length | : | 90mm |
| Focus Range | : | 10ft to inf |
| Aperture Type | : | Fixed |
| Aperture | : | f/14 |
| Shutter Type | : | Rotary |
| Shutter Speeds | : | B,I*(1/40 sec) |
| Size (w x h x d) | : | 83 x 105 x 130 mm |
| Weight | : | 457g |
| * Measured on this camera | ||
Description
The Ansco Sears Marvel S20 is a simple box-type camera from 1937 to 1940. The facade has a strong symmetrical geometric pattern. The body is metal and covered in leatherette. It has two reflecting finders.one for portrait and one for landscape. It has a simple rotary shutter. There is a tab that controls the switch from instant to bulb. The aperture is fixed at f/14.
Get a camera like this from Ebay - Ansco Sears Marvel S20
How to Use
This camera takes 120 film which is easily available from photographic outlets.
As the shutter speed is only 1/40s, it is advisable to hold it against a wall or other solid object to get shake free shots. There are no tripod sockets. 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 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.
If you are not sure about the light level, err on the side of overexposure - i.e. assume the lower light level.
Using ISO 100 film - shutter speed 1/40s
| Weather Conditions | Shadow Detail | Aperture | Exposure |
|---|---|---|---|
 SunnySnow/Sand | Dark with sharp edges | f/14 | +3 Stops Overexposed Acceptable |
| Sunny | Distinct | f/14 | +2 Stops Overexposed Acceptable |
 Slight Overcast | Soft around edges | f/14 | +1 Stop Overexposed Acceptable |
 Overcast | Barely visible | f/14 | Good |
 Heavy Overcast | None | f/14 | -1 Stop Underexposed Acceptable |
 Open Shade/Sunset | None | f/14 | -2 Stops Underexposed Not Acceptable |
Get Film for this camera from Ebay - 120 film