The Polaroid Swinger Model 20 (Polaroid Land Camera Model 20) is an instant camera from Polaroid. It was introduced in the mid 1960s. The white housing of the camera is made of plastic. On the back is a manual with information about the camera and how to use the films. With a price of just $19.95, the camera was one of the cheapest entrants into instant photography. Today, the 19.95 US dollars correspond to about 142.40 euros.
The camera was advertised among other things with the “Meet the Swinger” jingle, which was very catchy and quickly settled in the ear.
As you know it from Polaroid’s instant cameras for the amateur market, it is very easy to use. The camera does not have many setting options. The focus, for example, is fixed. Of course there is no zoom either. Therefore, the Polaroid Swinger has a built-in light meter. This is powered by two batteries inside the camera.
It is possible to use AG-1 flash bulbs. The weight of one copy of the camera is about 770 grams. The dimensions of the instant camera are 15.5 x 12.5 x 13 cm.
Films for the Polaroid Swinger
The Polaroid Swinger needs type 20 films, and Polaroid Land Roll films are no longer produced. There is no alternative from another manufacturer. Therefore the camera can only be used as a decorative object. At that time one picture had the size of 5.4 by 7.3 cm. With one roll of film you could take eight pictures.
Value of the camera
What is the camera still worth today? The financial value of a Polaroid Swinger Model 20 is not very high nowadays. If you get the 20 US dollars of the original price today you are very lucky. The reason for this is mainly due to two factors, the lack of availability of fresh film material and the high number of pieces produced by this camera model.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Instant camera |
| Film format | Typ 20 Rollfilm |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Exposure times | 1/200 second |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Mount for AG-1 flash bulbs |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Weight | 770 Grams |
| Estimated value / Used price | 24,62 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 12 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 18, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 23,49 Euro (24.90 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 24,35 Euro (25.98 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 25,63 Euro (27.06 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Polaroid Swinger Model 20
Is the Polaroid Swinger easy to use?
Yes, it's designed for beginners. It doesn't have many settings; the focus is fixed, and there's no zoom. Its simplicity is a key feature.
What kind of film does this instant camera use?
The Polaroid Swinger uses Type 20 film. Unfortunately, this film is no longer produced, limiting the camera's current functionality.
How much did the camera cost when it was new?
The Polaroid Swinger originally cost $19.95, which was very affordable for its time. This made instant photography accessible to many people.
What is the camera made of?
The camera body is made of plastic. It's lightweight but reasonably durable. The design is simple and characteristic of many 1960s cameras.
Is the Polaroid Swinger still valuable today?
Its monetary value isn't very high today. The lack of available film and the large number produced affect its current worth. Collectors might pay more though.