VINTAGE 127 ROLL FILM CAMERAS
THE KODAK BROWNIE 44A
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ABOUT THE CAMERA
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The Kodak Brownie 44a was made in England between 1959 and 1966, and took 12 4 x 4cm shots on 127 film. It was second in the Kodak catalogue, after the oval Brownie 127. The slightly more expensive Brownie 44B had a better lens and shutter, and double exposure prevention, but lacked the plastic 'case'.
CLICK HERE to see the full Kodak camera advert for 1961. |
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The camera came with a rough black plastic case which protected the camera, but to my mind cheapened the look of an otherwise handsome camera.
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The case could be removed if necessary. The fitting on the right was the socket for a screw-on 'Brownie' flash unit taking PF1 flash bulbs.
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| This lever changed the aperture, using a simple cut-out circle. The numbers are 'Exposure Values', 12 corresponds to 1/60th at f8, 13 was 1/60th at f11. | The Dakon was a simple lens used on many cheap Kodak cameras. It was still capable of good results when coupled with a curved film gate. | The large wind-on knob was easy to and comfortable to use. There was no double exposure prevention, this was reserved for the more expensive 44B. | ||||
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| The simple shutter button has a soft action, and is perfectly placed to avoid pressing accidently. | A sliding catch releases the back for loading. Like most simple Kodak cameras, the catch is very secure. | The supply spool is held in by a spring clip, making it reasonably easy to load. | ||||
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The take-up spool is held in place by a clip at the bottom of the camera. The metal strips connect the shutter to the optional flash unit.
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The curved, sprung pressure plate is essential to achieve sharp photos with the simple lens.
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All Photographs © Brian Price except where stated