Kodak Disc 4100 (1984–1987)

A point-and-shoot film camera using Kodak’s short-lived disc film format, produced as part of an ambitious but ultimately failed push to simplify consumer photography.

Overview

The Kodak Disc 4100 is a compact point-and-shoot film camera made by Kodak and produced from 1984 to 1987. It uses the proprietary disc film format, specifically VR Disc film, which rotates in a flat cartridge to expose 8 x 10 mm images per disc. The camera features a fixed 12.5mm f/2.8 Ashperic lens and offers two shutter speeds: 1/100 and 1/200 second. Its body is constructed primarily of molded plastic and includes a fold-down front cover that protects the lens and viewfinder while also acting as a shutter interlock—ensuring the camera cannot fire when closed. This model was also released as a special edition called the Medalist I, according to collector sources.

Specifications

Film Format	Disc film (VR Disc)
Lens	12.5mm, f/2.8 Ashperic
Shutter Speeds	1/100, 1/200 second
Image Size	8 x 10 mm
Dimensions	W118 x H80 x D30mm (4.2 x 2.1 x 1.3 in)
Construction	Mainly molded plastic
Original Price	$66.00 (USD)

Design

The lens and viewfinder are protected by a sliding fold-down cover that doubles as a shutter interlock, preventing exposure when closed. The construction is primarily molded plastic, emphasizing lightweight portability and low-cost manufacturing aligned with its role as a mass-market snapshot device.

Context

The Kodak Disc 4100 was also published as a special issue under the name Medalist I, indicating a variant release within Kodak’s disc camera lineup. It was part of Kodak’s broader disc film system introduced in the 1980s, an innovative but commercially unsuccessful attempt to modernize consumer photography through smaller, more convenient film cartridges.

Market

While contemporary user accounts reflect mixed sentiment—ranging from collector appreciation to criticism over poor image quality due to the small negative size—the Disc 4100 has gained niche interest among vintage camera collectors. One source notes, “Great For Collectors,” suggesting its current value lies more in historical curiosity than photographic performance.