The IOR Orizont Amator is a simple viewfinder camera. It was developed by the company King from Bad Liebenzell. The model was then built under license in Romania by the state Intreprinderea Optica Romana.
The camera comes with a fixed focal length. The focal length is unchangeable and is 40 mm. The largest aperture available is f/2.8. The IOR Orizont Amator has no autofocus. The lens is focused manually. The close-up limit for this lens is 100 cm.
The IOR Orizont Amator has no built-in light meter. Although there is a window for the metering cells a selenium light meter, this has no function.
A bulb mode is available for long exposures. In this mode the shutter is opened as long as the shutter release button is pressed. This mode can only be used with a cable release.
An external flash can be used with the Hot Shoe. For blur-free photos, there is a thread for a tripod. The Romanian camera does not need batteries.
Films for the IOR Orizont Amator
The IOR Orizont Amator uses 35mm film. 35mm films are still produced by different producers. A possible film for color photography is the Agfaphoto Vista 200*. One option for b/w images is the Ilford FP4 Plus*.
The color film is a negative film and is processed in the C-41 development process. The C-41 process is standardized and is offered by most development laboratories.
The exposure area of the camera has a size of 24 mm x 36 mm. With this exposure area, normally, a 35mm film (135-36) will fit at least 36 photos.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Viewfinder camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 40 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/2.8 |
| Minimum focus distance | 100 cm / 3.28 ft |
| Focus | Manual |
| Exposure times | 1/300 second to 1/30 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Country of production | Romania |
FAQ about the IOR Orizont Amator
Is the IOR Orizont Amator a rangefinder camera or a viewfinder camera?
The IOR Orizont Amator is a viewfinder camera. It uses a viewfinder to compose your shots, not a rangefinder for precise distance measurement.
Does this camera have autofocus?
No, the IOR Orizont Amator doesn't have autofocus. You need to manually focus the lens using the focus ring. This requires a bit more skill but can lead to creative results.
What kind of film does the camera use?
This Romanian camera uses standard 35mm film. You can use both color and black and white films, offering plenty of creative choices.
How do I take long exposures with this device?
The IOR Orizont Amator has a bulb mode for long exposures. However, you'll need a cable release to use this feature, as you must hold the shutter open manually.
Does the camera have a built-in light meter?
No, the IOR Orizont Amator does not have a working built-in light meter. You'll have to use an external light meter or rely on your own judgment to set the correct exposure.