The Carena Zoomex Pocket is a pocket film camera. The special feature is the zoom lens, a rarity in this type of cameras.
The lens of the Carena Zoomex Pocket cannot be replaced. The zoom range is from 25 mm to 42 mm. The maximum aperture is f/5.6. There is no autofocus. The lens is fixed and cannot be changed.
Likewise, the camera’s exposure settings cannot be changed. The fact that the aperture and shutter speed cannot be adjusted is typical for pocket film cameras. Only a few cameras for the film format offer this possibility.
According to the instructions, the camera weighs 180 grams and measures 12 x 4.5 x 7.5 cm. The reason for the compact size is the small film format that the camera uses. This not only saves space but also reduces the weight, making the camera lighter and more mobile.
Films for the Carena Zoomex Pocket
Pocket films are exposed in the Carena Zoomex Pocket Film. Pocket films are produced again today and can be developed in most laboratories. The Austrian company Lomography offers films for the 110 format. For colour photography there is the Lomography Tiger 110. One option for black and white images is the Lomography Orca 110. The color film is processed in the C-41 development process. C-41 films are developed by almost all photo laboratories, but not every laboratory also develops pocket films.
The Carena Zoomex Pocket is no longer in production. The prices for a used model vary depending on the condition. The new price in the 80s was around 120 D-Mark at the largest photo retailer in West Germany. Today the value is much lower.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Viewfinder camera |
| Film format | 110 |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 13 mm x 17 mm |
| Focal length | 25 mm - 42 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/5.6 |
| Zoom function | Yes |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Tripod mount | No |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Size | 12 x 4,5 x 7,5 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 4.72 x 1.77 x 2.95 inches |
| Weight | 180 Grams |
FAQ about the Carena Zoomex Pocket
Is the lens on this tiny camera interchangeable?
No, the Carena Zoomex Pocket has a fixed zoom lens. It ranges from 25mm to 42mm, but you can't swap it for a different lens. This is typical for pocket cameras.
How does the focusing work on the Carena Zoomex Pocket?
This small camera doesn't have autofocus. The lens is fixed, meaning there are no manual focus adjustments either. The focus is permanently set.
Can I control the shutter speed and aperture?
No, you cannot adjust the aperture or shutter speed on this camera. These settings are fixed, a common feature of pocket film cameras.
What size film does this compact camera use?
The Carena Zoomex Pocket uses 110 format pocket film. This smaller film format is what contributes to the camera's compact size and weight.
Is this camera still being made?
No, the Carena Zoomex Pocket is no longer in production. This makes finding one, and film for it, a little more challenging, but adds to its vintage appeal.