Argus V-100 (1958)

A 35mm film rangefinder camera made in Germany by Iloca for Argus, featuring a coupled rangefinder and built-in selenium exposure meter.

Overview

The Argus V-100 is a 35mm film rangefinder camera produced in 1958. It was manufactured in Germany by Iloca under license for Argus, marking a departure from Argus's earlier in-house designs. The V-100 was positioned as one of the finest cameras ever marketed by Argus, showcasing high-quality optics and precision engineering for its time.

Specifications

Lens options	48mm f2 Argus Cintagon II or 52mm f2.8 Argus Cintar II
Lens type	Color-corrected, coated anastigmats
Shutter	Synchro-Compur shutter
Viewfinder	Coupled rangefinder
Exposure meter	Built-in uncoupled selenium exposure meter

Context

The V-100 was a licensed design built by Iloca, reflecting Argus's shift toward outsourcing advanced camera production to European manufacturers. It was considered one of the best cameras ever marketed by Argus, highlighting the brand’s attempt to compete in the higher-end 35mm rangefinder market.

Market

The camera retailed for $99.95 with the f/2.8 lens, though a special price of $62.50 was listed in the Houston Wholesale Jewelers Spring Summer 1959 Catalog.