The King Regula Picca CS is a viewfinder camera. It was manufactured in Bad Liebenzell in southern Germany by King KG. The model was sold in the 70’s and is very similar to the Picca C. The difference between the models is the self-timer.
The lens of the King Regula Picca CS cannot be exchanged. The name of the lens is “Color-Isconar 40mm f/2.8”. The focal length is 40 mm and the maximum aperture is f/2.8. The lens is focused manually.
The exposure must be measured externally. The 35 mm camera does not have an exposure meter. There is a window for a selenium exposure meter, but it doesn’t have a function.
The King Regula Picca CS has a bulb mode. An external flash can be connected to the Hot Shoe. The 35mm camera has a built-in self-timer. It also comes with a connector for a cable trigger and tripod. The thread for the cable release is particularly important, as Bulb mode can only be used with it.
The 35mm camera needs no batteries.
Films for the King Regula Picca CS
Which films are required for the King Regula Picca CS? The camera is designed for 35mm films. 35mm films are still easy to get today and are developed by most photo laboratories. A good choice of film is the Kodak Portra 160* for color photographs and the Kodak T-Max 100* for black-and-white images.
The color film is designed for development in the C-41 process. The C-41 films are offered by most photo laboratories.
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 |
| 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 | Yes |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Estimated value / Used price | 58,00 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 3 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of November 6, 2023 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 58,00 Euro (62.78 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the King Regula Picca CS
Is the King Regula Picca CS a rangefinder camera?
No, it's a viewfinder camera. The King Regula Picca CS is a simple camera with a built-in viewfinder, unlike rangefinders which use a separate rangefinding mechanism.
Can I change the lens on this camera?
No, the lens, a Color-Isconar 40mm f/2.8, is fixed. It has a 40mm focal length and a maximum aperture of f/2.8. You cannot swap it for a different lens.
How do I control the exposure?
This camera doesn't have a built-in light meter. You'll need to use an external light meter to determine the correct exposure settings. There is a space for a selenium meter, but it's not functional.
What kind of film does the camera use?
It uses standard 35mm film. This is easily available, and most photo labs can develop it. Kodak Portra 160 (color) and Kodak T-Max 100 (black and white) are good choices.
Does the camera need batteries?
No, the King Regula Picca CS doesn't require any batteries to operate. It's a purely mechanical camera. This makes it very reliable and simple to use.