The 1958 Voigtlander Prominent

Just metal and glass why is it so much more?

Its dad's camera from the 1950's. Dad loved it, produced excellent photos and over the years so have I. So why do I still like it in 2019?

Ignoring the old school selfie from the 80's above (I am wearing a suit, must have been Sunday after mass), its just a damn fine rangefinder camera. No batteries, no auto exposure meter no nothing, just your skill, a roll of film, and off you go and very very quiet operation.

Dad had all the kit (See below) The original Blue velour lined box is also intact but in the loft at the moment.

It came with lens hood, red and green filters for B&W shots, a Contur viewfinder fits to the top of the Flash hotshoe.

A Sixtomat light meter (although I was saddened to find just now the glass has cracked) but it still works!

Brochures, Tripod and Flashgun bar with dish (for old style Flash bulbs) and flexible cable release. Everything the man about town in 1958 would ever need.

The Camera is quite heavy so is everything else, built to last and in 2019 it has proved itself.

I love the lardy bulk it actually helps to steady your arms during exposure.

Dad taught me a technique to lock my arms and hold my breath when pushing the button, something I still do with my Pentax K1.

The Pentax K1 again I love it because it weighs about 3 tonnes and is built like the proverbial outside convenience and not a fashion item for 12 months before its superseded by the next big thing.

I just realised if it wasn't for this camera all these memories would have been lost forever, but then I wouldn't be spending hours in the evening working on this website? Damn you Voigtlander!

So my hobby continues but unfortunately after 30 years working in I.T my eye sight is starting to diminish and trying to look through a teeny viewfinder the size of a small pea, means regular usage of the Voigtlander is coming to an end, but lets see, there is life in the old dog yet (both the camera and me!)