My first Polish camera

[Dany]

I have just acquired this Polish TLR manufactured in Warsaw from 1960 to 1965 by the company WZFO (Warszawskie Zakłady Foto Optyczne). It is a Start II, the most sophisticated model in the range with its film winding crank.
Manufacturing this model was expensive. In addition, its complex mechanics had a negative impact on its reliability. Competed by equivalent foreign devices, it did not have the commercial success expected by WZFO. It is, therefore, a particularly rare device.
Mine is complete and completely functional, which adds to my pleasure

 

[webestang64]

Rare, unique and works. Triple header. Lovely piece.

 

[cgw]

Wonder if anyone has cataloged the global range of Rollei-ish TLR knock-offs produced during the '50s and '60s?

 

[Dany]

A good source :
Polish

 

[cgw]

Can't forget the Start's cousin from Shanghai:

Seagull Camera - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

 

[Chase McCloud]

Love it. Its a beauty. I have an old Zeiss Ikon Ikonoflex TLR that I managed to shoot one roll through but don't own the right negative holder to make prints. Happy hunting.

 

[Dany]

Talking about Shangai TLRs. I could take some interest to the matter when I worked in Dalian (East of China).
I have some of them in my collection. They are far from being as valuable as a Rollei but I love them.