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Description

The Ensign Selfix 820 Special is a premium British folding rangefinder camera designed to produce 6×9 cm images on 120 roll film. This model is fitted with the high‑grade Ross 105mm f/3.8 lens, known for its sharp rendering and strong mid‑century optical performance. The camera features a coupled rangefinder, folding metal bed, leatherette‑covered body and a compact form when closed. The 820 Special sits at the top of the Ensign Selfix line and is regarded as one of the finest British‑made medium‑format cameras of its era.


Condition

Overall Condition: Fair
The camera shows light, age‑appropriate wear. Bellows appear sound, focusing action is smooth and the rangefinder aligns. Shutter speeds do not vary appropriately and will require attention. Body covering is intact with minor handling marks. The case shows typical signs of use but remains functional. The bellows are showing wear but I could not see any light leaks


Included

Ensign Selfix 820 Special camera
Ross 105mm f/3.8 lens (fitted)



Collectors Notes

The Selfix 820 Special is one of the most sought‑after Ensign models, combining a coupled rangefinder with the excellent Ross 105mm f/3.8 lens. Its 6×9 cm format, solid British construction and premium specification make it a standout piece for collectors of mid‑century cameras. Examples with intact bellows and complete rangefinder assemblies remain desirable, even when the shutter requires servicing, as parts and repair options are still accessible within the collector community.


Key Features

120 roll film format
6×9 cm image size
Ross 105mm f/3.8 lens
Coupled rangefinder
Variable‑speed shutter
Folding metal bed design
Compact and portable
British‑made premium model
Leatherette‑covered metal body


SEO Optimised Keywords

Ensign Selfix 820 Special
Ensign 820 rangefinder
Ross 105mm f3.8
Vintage folding camera
120 film camera
6×9 medium format camera
British vintage camera
Collectable Ensign camera
Classic film camera
Mid‑century rangefinder camera

 

Photographs of item

Note that all the photographs are of the item for sale that you will receive. If you notice that the photographs in any way do not match the title or description please contact me and let me know.

Equipment Testing

I will carry out a standard set of testing for all equipment I am selling and will highlight any issues found as well as the perceived condition of the item. Not all tests will be appropriate for a specific camera or lens, but the appropriate ones will be carried out.

  Test 
Digital Camera
  1. Camera powers on with no errors
  2. It is possible to write to memory card
  3. It is possible to  read from memory card
  4. Inspect test image for any noticeable sensor issues
  5. Standard controls/buttons work
  6. LCD screens work and display correctly
  7. The viewfinder is clear
  8. If the camera uses removable lenses, test that lenses mount correctly and functions work.
Film Camera
  1. Test that the camera winds on
  2. Does the shutter release
  3. Test the shutter through all speeds and note whether the speed varies appropriately (speed accuracy not tested or guarenteed)
  4. Shutter curtains open and close as expected
  5. Self timer functions
  6. If the cameras has a light meter that the meter works  and varies appropriately (accuracy of meter not tested or guarenteed)
  7. Condition of the viewfinder
  8. Condition of the mirror 
  9. Rangefinder functions correctly
  10. Bellows condition (specifically looking for cracks and light leaks)
 Lens
  1. Shine a bright light through and check for fungus, haze, dust and scratches
  2. Attach the lens to an appropriate camera body 
  3. Test the function of aperture ( does it open and close appropriately)
  4. Test the function of focus (AF and Manual) 
  5. Function of zoom
  6. Is movement excessively stiff or loose

 

Equipment Grading

Grade Condition
Mint As new condition, no marks, fully working
Excellent very minor usage marks detected, fully working
Very good Some minor usage marks or small scratches, fully working
Good Marks consistent with use, minor wear on edges, small scratches, fully working
Fair Heavier wear marks, possibly some minor issues with functionality, but usable
Poor Heavy wear, not fully working, would require work, should be considered as a renovation project

 

Notes of Condition

Please note the following:

Shipping

Shipping

The item will be shipped within 2 working days after your payment has been received & cleared. It will often be sent quicker than this.

All items will be sent securely packaged. Please note that although the majority of packing materials we use are new, we will reuse materials when available and encourage all of our customers to do the same.

Items below £150 in value will be sent by Royal Mail 48, those above this value will be sent via Special Delivery in the UK.

We are happy to send internationally.

Returns

All items sold come with a 30 day no fuss return guarantee with the exception of items sold as faulty or for parts.