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Manufacturer: Detrola Corporation
Model: Detrola Model K
Type: Art Deco Bakelite / metal folding roll film camera
Approximate Production Period: Late 1930s to early 1940s
Film Format: 127 roll film (“Vest Pocket” format)
Lens: Wollensak Velostigmat 2-inch F/3.5 lens
Shutter: Detrola Model K shutter assembly
Country of Manufacture: United States
Markings Observed:
* “DETROLA CORPORATION – MADE IN U.S.A.”
* “MODEL K”
* “WOLLENSAK VELOSTIGMAT 2 INCH F3.5”
* Uses “Eastman 127” or “Agfa A8” film
Historical Context
The Detrola Model K represents a highly distinctive American Art Deco camera design produced during the late Depression-era period in Detroit, Michigan. Detrola Corporation is better known for manufacturing radios, but the company briefly entered the consumer camera market with stylish compact cameras intended for middle-class consumers seeking portable photography equipment.
The Model K is especially notable for its streamlined industrial styling, geometric engravings, and unusual dual red rear viewing windows for 127 film. Cameras equipped with Wollensak Velostigmat lenses are considered more desirable than lower-grade lens variants because they offered improved optical quality and faster apertures for low-light photography.
The camera reflects strong late-1930s industrial design influence and has crossover appeal among:
* Vintage camera collectors
* Art Deco collectors
* Detroit industrial memorabilia collectors
* Photography historians
Condition Assessment
Observed Condition: Very Good Vintage Condition
Notable Features Observed
* Lens assembly appears complete and intact
* Bellows extension mechanism present
* Rear film door intact and removable
* Original red exposure windows intact
* Internal spool hardware present
* Exterior finish retains strong cosmetic presentation
* Engraved lettering remains sharp and legible
* Minimal corrosion or oxidation visible
Condition Notes
* Minor surface wear consistent with age and storage
* Dust and light grime visible internally and around edges
* Operational functionality not tested with film
* Lens exhibits mild haze and age-related internal dust typical of cameras from this era
Collector Appeal
The strongest value driver for this example is the combination of:
* Art Deco industrial styling
* Wollensak Velostigmat F/3.5 lens upgrade
* Strong cosmetic preservation
* Complete interior and back door
* Detroit manufacturing provenance
Most surviving Detrola cameras encountered today are heavily worn or incomplete. Examples retaining clean cosmetics and intact rear doors command significantly stronger collector
