The Revue 640 or Polaroid Revue 640 is an instant camera.
It is practically identical to the Polaroid One Step Flash. However, the housing is not decorated with the Polaroid logo, but with the lettering of “Revue”. Revue was a trademark of Foto-Quelle under which cameras from various manufacturers were sold.
Foto Quelle was a photo retailer founded in Nuremberg in West Germany. The company was part of Quelle, one of the largest mail order companies at the time.
The Revue 640 required instant film for Polaroid’s 600 format. Today, Impossible Project still produces films for this format. The films have also been sold under the old brand again since 2020. For black and white and color images, Impossible currently has the Polaroid B&W Film for 600* and the Polaroid Color Film for 600* in its range.
The battery for the flash and the operation of the camera is permanently located in the film cassette. An additional battery is not needed.
Applications for a Polaroid camera
A Polaroid camera is an excellent choice for special occasions and experiences where you want to hold and share a physical photo immediately. Examples include weddings, birthday parties, family reunions, travel and other memorable moments. With a Polaroid camera, you can take spontaneous snapshots and capture the memories in a unique way. What’s more, the instant pictures also make a great gift for friends and family.
Alternative models
If the camera cannot be found, alternatives are available. Two great alternatives would be the Polaroid OneStep Close Up* and Polaroid Sun 660*. You’ll find a similar range of features with these models. They use the identical film format. There are also alternatives to the Polaroid cameras. Exciting models include the LomoInstant Wide* and Diana Instant Square*. Suitable film material is also still being produced for both cameras.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Instant camera |
| Film format | Typ 600 |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 79 mm x 79 mm |
| Focal length | 116 mm (?) |
| Widest aperture | f/11 (?) |
| Minimum focus distance | 120 cm / 3.936 ft |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Exposure times | 1/200 second to 1/4 second |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Tripod mount | No |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 1x battery in filmpack |
FAQ about the Polaroid Revue 640
What kind of film does the Revue 640 use?
The Revue 640 uses Polaroid 600 film. Impossible Project currently produces this film, offering both color and black and white options. You don't need any extra batteries.
Is the Revue 640 similar to other cameras?
Yes, it's almost identical to the Polaroid OneStep Flash. The main difference is the branding; the Revue 640 uses the 'Revue' logo instead of the Polaroid logo.
Where can I get film for this instant camera?
Impossible Project makes film for the Revue 640, available in color and black and white. Polaroid themselves also sell this film format again.
Does the instant camera need extra batteries?
No, the Revue 640 doesn't require separate batteries. The flash and camera are powered by a battery built into the film cassette.
What are some good occasions to use this Polaroid camera?
This type of camera is great for capturing memories at special events like weddings, birthdays, or family gatherings. It's also perfect for spontaneous shots during travels. The instant photos make great gifts, too.