Vintage Argus C3 “The Brick” 35mm Rangefinder Camera with Argus Cintar 50mm f/3.5 Lens & Original Brown Leather Case – Circa 1941–1942 – Made in USA A beautiful early example of the iconic Argus C3, one of the most recognizable American-made cameras of the 20th century. This appears to be an early prewar C3 dating approximately 1941–1942, based on its combination of period-specific features: the seven-position shutter-speed dial ranging from 1/10 to 1/300 second, Weston film-speed reminder dial on the rear door, early chrome controls, lack of the later Argus front badge, and early Argus Cintar lens configuration. Collector research places this particular combination primarily in the 1941–42 production period. The Argus C3 was introduced in 1939 and manufactured in the United States for decades. Because of its solid rectangular Bakelite-and-metal construction, photographers affectionately nicknamed it “The Brick.” More than two million examples of the C3 family were eventually produced, making it an important part of American photographic history. This camera retains its distinctive black textured exterior with polished chrome trim and controls, separate rangefinder and viewfinder windows, geared rangefinder focusing mechanism, manual frame counter, mechanical shutter controls, flash synchronization contacts, rewind and film-advance controls, and removable/interchangeable lens system. The mounted lens is an original Argus Cintar 50mm f/3.5, marked Made in U.S.A. The visible aperture scale is the early style associated with this period. Also included is the original-style brown fitted leather ever-ready carrying case with shoulder strap. The aged leather has developed an attractive authentic patina from decades of use and storage. Camera Features - Manufacturer: Argus - Model: C3 - Nickname: “The Brick” - Estimated production: circa 1941–1942 - Country: United States - Film format: 35mm - Camera type: Coupled rangefinder - Lens: Argus Cintar 50mm f/3.5 - Manual focus…
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