The Kodak Pony II is a viewfinder camera. It was built by Kodak from 1957 to 1962. It is the successor of the Kodak Pony 135 Model C. Later the Kodak Pony IV followed.
The Kodak Pony II comes with a lens that cannot be changed. The lens has a focal length of 44 mm. The name of the lens is “Kodak Anastar”. The lens consists of 4 elements in 3 groups.
You have to focus the lens manually. Instead of apertures, the settings are given in EV. On the back there is a table with the correct settings for the corresponding Kodak film.
Exposure is not measured by the camera. Exposure time and aperture can be selected manually. The camera comes with a Bulb setting option. In this mode, the film is exposed as long as the shutter button is pressed. For blur-free shots, the Kodak Pony II has a thread for a tripod.
The 35mm camera does not require power to take pictures.
Films for the Kodak Pony II
The Kodak Pony II is designed for the 35mm format. 35mm films are still made today and are fairly easy to get. Possible films for the Kodak Pony II are the Kodak Ultramax 400* for color images and the Kodak T-Max 100* for black and white images.
The development of the color film is the C-41 process. This development process is available at almost every photo lab. The cost of developing alone should be in the single-digit euro range, depending on the lab.
The black and white film must be processed in a suitable black and white developer. There are various options here, as the process does not follow a standard. Each film delivers slightly different results in one of the different developers on the market.
The production of the Kodak Pony II was ended and today you can only buy it used. The used price of the 35mm camera depends on its condition and functionality. The original price was 26.75 USD.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Viewfinder camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 44 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/3.9 |
| Focus | Manual |
| Lens design | 4 elements in 5 groups |
| Exposure times | 1/30 second |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Size | 14 x 7,6 x 6,3 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.51 x 2.99 x 2.48 inches |
| Weight | 372 Grams |
| Country of production | USA |
| End of production | 1962 |
| Production duration | 5 years |
FAQ about the Kodak Pony II
Is the Kodak Pony II a rangefinder camera or a viewfinder camera?
The Kodak Pony II is a viewfinder camera. This means you compose your image directly through the viewfinder, which shows you approximately what the lens sees. It doesn't have a separate rangefinder for focusing.
How do I focus the lens on this camera?
The Kodak Pony II uses manual focusing. You'll need to turn the lens to adjust the focus. There's no autofocus feature.
What type of film does this little camera use?
This camera uses 35mm film, also known as 135 film. This is a common film format, so it is easy to find both color and black and white options.
Does the camera have a built-in light meter?
No, the Kodak Pony II doesn't have a built-in light meter. You'll have to determine the correct exposure settings yourself, using the EV settings table provided on the camera body.
Can I use a tripod with the camera?
Yes, the Kodak Pony II has a tripod mount. This is helpful for ensuring sharp images, especially in low light when using longer exposure times.