Plaubel is a German camera manufacturer founded in 1902 by Hugo Schrader. The company is best known for its Plaubel Makina series of medium format cameras, particularly the 6×7 format models.
Early history
After training at Voigtländer and working for Dr. R. Krügener, Hugo Schrader founded Plaubel & Co. in Frankfurt. The company initially focused on the distribution and production of cameras and lenses.
Plaubel Makina
The original Makina was a technically advanced press camera first produced in 1911. It was known for its high-quality lenses and innovative features such as the hinged front.
Post-war period
After World War II, Plaubel continued to produce the Makina, but the rise of 35mm format cameras led to declining sales.
Revival and later years
In the 1970s, Plaubel was sold to the Doi Group, which reintroduced the Makina 67, a Japanese-made camera with a Nikkor lens. This model and its wide-angle variant, the Makina W67, achieved cult status.
Plaubel eventually stopped production of the Makina 67 in 1986. However, the company continued to produce large format cameras such as the Peco Profia until 2017.
Plaubel cameras today
Although production of Plaubel cameras, especially the Makina models, ceased decades ago, they remain highly sought after by film photography enthusiasts and collectors. Their robust construction, exceptional optics and unique features have ensured their continued use in the 21st century.
Many photographers appreciate the tactile experience of these classic cameras and the unique image quality they produce. The Makina 67, with its compact design and excellent Nikkor lens, is particularly popular for travel and portrait photography. Due to their rarity and desirability, certain Plaubel models, especially those in excellent condition, command high prices on the second-hand market.
