These AGFA Repro Phototechnische PLATTE C are vintage black-and-white photographic dry glass plates, manufactured in East Germany by the renowned AGFA (Wolfen) brand. Based on the packaging design, they were produced between the late 1950s and the early 1960s.
On January 1, 1964, following lengthy legal disputes, the Wolfen factory located in the former GDR was forced to rename itself to ORWO (short for "ORiginal WOlfen"). This package is one of the last boxes produced in Wolfen under this legendary brand name. Meanwhile, the AGFA trademark continued to evolve separately, becoming an iconic symbol of the photographic industry in West Germany.
Emulsion: AGFA Phototechnische Platte C are specialized photographic materials designed for professional reproduction work, requiring exceptional sharpness and clarity.
Detail & Sensitivity: To achieve maximum detail, the emulsion is extremely fine-grained. This comes at the cost of sensitivity, which at the time of production was likely around 6 ASA. This requires much longer exposure times compared to standard panchromatic films or plates.
Contrast & Layers: An anti-halation layer (anti-halo) is included for even greater sharpness. According to Agfa’s classification, the letter "C" denotes a hard contrast emulsion (part of a series ranging from A - soft to E - ultra-hard).
Processing: As indicated on the box, the emulsion is panchromatic (sensitive to the entire visible spectrum). These plates must be opened and processed only under specific dark green light, as directed on the packaging.
Condition: Very good vintage condition with original labels and a clearly visible batch number: FC 1338. Authentic, unopened box with minimal signs of aging.
Contents: 12 dry glass plates, size 10x15 cm (approx. 4x6 inches).
These AGFA Phototechnische Platte C are offered primarily for their historical and collector's value due to the specific era of their production. However, many photographers also seek unique visual aesthetics in vintage materials.
Since the box has never been opened, I cannot provide specific information regarding the current technical state of the emulsion. For photographic materials of this age (60+ years), chemical sensitivity has likely shifted, and some "fogging" is to be expected. I recommend shooting an exposure wedge (test strip) to determine the plates' current characteristics.
If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me!