A beautifully preserved rangefinder camera from the golden age of analogue photography. The Agfa Optima 200 Sensor combines responsive selenium-cell metering, a fast Color-Apotar lens and mechanical reliability in a compact, portable form.
The Optima 200 Sensor is a landmark in post-war German camera manufacturing. Launched in 1969, it represents the mature expression of the Agfa Optima series — a camera built to last, with a satisfying mechanical feel and intuitive controls that reward both experienced film photographers and those new to analogue shooting.
At the heart of the Optima 200 lies an Agfa Color-Apotar lens with a 42mm focal length and f/2.8 maximum aperture. This fast, multi-element design delivers sharp, bright images across a wide range of lighting conditions, from bright daylight to overcast scenes. The aperture range and closest focusing distance of 1 metre offer flexibility for both documentary and more considered compositions.
The selenium-cell exposure meter requires no battery and responds immediately to light changes, offering reliable, accurate exposure information. The viewfinder clearly displays shutter speeds and aperture coupling, making manual metering intuitive even after decades of storage.
The Paratic shutter provides speeds from 1/30 to 1/200 seconds, covering the majority of daylight and indoor film work. This mechanical shutter is simple, robust and renowned for consistency — qualities that have kept thousands of Optima cameras in working order for over fifty years.
Every angle of this camera is photographed individually: front, top, side and detail views showing the lens, shutter dial, viewfinder window and the original Agfa branding. You are viewing the exact camera for sale — not a stock image. The leather case shown is included and has aged naturally with the camera.
This Optima 200 Sensor is in good pre-owned condition. The black leather body shows natural wear commensurate with age — light surface scuffing, minor patina on the chrome top plate and bezel, and a well-used appearance that speaks to its history as a working camera. The selenium meter cell is responsive. The shutter fires cleanly across all marked speeds. The lens is clear, free of fungus, haze or separation. The viewfinder is clean and bright. The leatherette covering remains securely bonded with no lifting or peeling. The camera is fully functional and ready to load and shoot.
Please examine all photographs carefully. They form a complete visual record of condition, wear, patina and any marks present on the day of listing.
This camera has been tested for shutter function, meter response and optical clarity. It is ready to load with your favourite film stock and shoot immediately. No cleaning or servicing has been carried out — you are buying it as-is, photographed in natural light so you can see exactly what you are getting.
For any questions about condition, function or shipping, please message me through eBay. I aim to respond within a few hours during UK working hours.
Thank you for looking — a piece of photographic history awaits.