The Agfa Flexilette is a 35mm camera. It was manufactured by Agfa Camera Werk AG and presented in the early 1960s. It is the predecessor of the Agfa Optima Reflex. The Agfa Flexilette was also on the market under the name “Agfa Reflex”.
The Agfa Flexilette comes with two lenses, one for focusing and one for taking pictures. The manufacturer’s name of the lens is Apotar 1:2.8/45. The largest aperture is f/2.8, the smallest is f/22.
The focus of the lens must be set manually. There is no autofocus system. The shaft finder helps with focusing. This was later replaced by a prism viewfinder on the Optima Reflex. The closest focusing distance of the lens is 1 meter.
The correct exposure cannot be measured by the TLR camera. The shutter allows exposure times from 1/500 s to 1 s. The camera has a Bulb mode. In this mode, the shutter is open for a variable time. The use of an external flash unit is possible via the PC flash socket.
Films for the Agfa Flexilette
Cartridges with 35mm film are exposed in the Agfa Flexilette. There is still a good selection of material for color and black and white images for this film format. One possible film for color images is Kodak Ultramax 400*. A possibility for B&W images is the Ilford FP4 Plus*.
The development of color film is the C-41 process. C-41 film can be developed by most photo labs. B/W film can only be processed in a developer suitable for this type of film.
The area of the Agfa Flexilette negatives is 24 mm x 36 mm. 36 photos are usually possible with a normal film (135-36). The film in the camera must be rewound manually by the photographer.
The Agfa Flexilette has a cable release and a tripod thread. No power is needed to take pictures. On the top, in addition to the shutter release, there is also a switch for double exposures and the frame counter.
The 35mm camera can only be bought used. The value of a used one is mainly measured by its condition and functionality.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Twin-lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 45 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/2.8 |
| Minimum focus distance | 100 cm / 3.28 ft |
| Focus | Manual |
| Exposure times | 1/500 second to 1 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | Yes |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | PC-Flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Company name of the brand | Agfa Camera Werk AG |
| Country of production | Germany |
| Estimated value / Used price | 109,38 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 7 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 97,38 Euro (104.99 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 205,64 Euro (221.89 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 179,33 Euro (193.75 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Agfa Flexilette
How many lenses does the Agfa Flexilette have?
The Agfa Flexilette has two lenses: one for focusing and one for taking the picture. The focusing lens helps you compose your shot, while the other lens actually captures the image onto the film.
Does this camera have autofocus?
No, the Agfa Flexilette doesn't have autofocus. You have to manually focus the lens using the viewfinder. This is a common feature of older cameras.
What kind of film does the Agfa Flexilette use?
It uses 35mm film, both color and black and white. You can find many options for this classic film format from various manufacturers.
How do I control the exposure on the camera?
The Agfa Flexilette doesn't have a built-in light meter. You'll have to determine the correct exposure settings yourself based on the available light. It offers shutter speeds from 1/500th of a second to 1 second, plus a bulb mode.
Can I use a flash with the camera?
Yes, the camera has a PC flash sync socket, allowing you to connect and use an external flash. This is helpful for shooting in low-light conditions.