Photographs are memories for a lifetime. But, for the passionate shutterbugs and hoarders, the cameras are just as impressive. If you love portraits, cinematography, and vintage items, you’ll find yourself amazed by these 15 retro cameras and their price tags.
Leica 0-Series
Before the Leica I’s commercial release, just 25 of these test versions were created. Their scarcity makes them exceedingly attractive; one recently sold for $2.97 million. For any serious camera enthusiast, the Leica 0-Series camera is a true gem.
Leica M
Industrial designer Marc Newson and Apple designer Jony Ive collaborated to produce this amazing piece of art as a charity project. The piece took approximately 100 hours to make and cost $1.8 million at auction. This makes it the third most expensive camera in the world.
Leica MP Black Paint
Famous for its remarkable functioning and elegant black style, this limited edition camera is well-known among photography enthusiasts. Only 141 pieces were manufactured, and one sold for $1.34 million. Given its ability to shoot two frames per second, it was very popular with press photographers at the time.
Leica Luxus II
There are just four of these stunning gold-plated pieces in existence. This camera was recovered on the popular TV show Antiques Roadshow and later sold at auction for $512,000. In the world of cinematography, it’s a magnificent example of traditional craftsmanship.
Mamiya 7ii
Launched in 1999, the Mamiya 7ii is highly sought-after for its practical advantages, such as taking 120 film and producing large negatives. An unused model with an 80mm lens sold for almost $10,000. It is very popular among collectors and photographers alike due to its mixture of quality and utility.
Leica MP
This manual-focus camera has exceptional build quality. Operating without batteries in any weather, it’s a photographer’s dream. Well-maintained models fetch up to $9,000. The Leica MP’s performance and durability make it a standout in the world of rangefinders.
Leica M6
Revered by photographers and filmmakers alike, the Leica M6 commands respect. Its reliability and craftsmanship justify the $9,000 price tag for new models. Vintage enthusiasts clamor for this iconic camera, praising its durability and timeless design.
Leica M2
From 1957 to 1968, Leica produced the M2, a classic rangefinder with split-image focusing. Collectors admire its simplicity and quality, willingly paying around $7,400 for well-preserved units. This camera’s enduring popularity speaks to its exceptional performance.
Contax 645
Medium-format excellence meets user-friendly design in the Contax 645. Professionals favor this camera for its dependable performance and stunning image quality. Mint condition models can command up to $5,500, delighting both collectors and working photographers.
Hasselblad 501CM
Renowned for its outstanding image quality, the Hasselblad 501CM is a medium-format powerhouse. Its sturdy construction appeals to photographers and cinematographers. Well-maintained examples of this versatile camera can fetch around $5,000 in the marketplace.
Hasselblad 503CW
The Hasselblad 503CW excels in adaptability and image quality. Collectors prize its sturdy design and exceptional output. Nearly $4,600 buys a top-condition model of this medium-format marvel, beloved for its reliability and stunning results.
Deardorff 8×10
Large-format photography reaches new heights with the Deardorff 8×10. At $4,400 (or more), you get a camera that captures incredible detail. The craftsmanship is exquisite and delivers excellent results, which is why it’s still in high demand among artists.
Contax G2
Compact yet powerful, the Contax G2 has superior optics and autofocus. Scarcity and premium build make it a collector’s dream. Depending on the condition and accessories, the prices can easily range from $1,000 to $2,500. Its reputation for quality keeps demand high.
Hasselblad 500C
Famous for its role in the Apollo mission, the Hasselblad 500C features a modular design and square format. Its historical significance and craftsmanship captivate enthusiasts. Well-preserved examples often sell between $1,000 and $2,500, reflecting its enduring appeal.
Exakta Varex IIb
Launched in 1963, the Exakta Varex IIb offered affordability at $50 when it first came out. But today you could get it for $4,500 (more or less). Its 50mm lens and interchangeable viewfinders provide versatility, with exposures up to 12 seconds.
