The Sokol Automat is a 35mm camera from Lomo from the Soviet Union. It is a rangefinder camera. The company Lomo produced them from 1966 to 1978. The company, formally known as GOMZ, was probably inspired by the Fujica 35 Auto M during their development.
The name of the camera (Sokol) can be translated to falcon. Later a revised version of the camera followed with the Sokol 2. Even before that, there was an attempt at a budget version of the Sokol with the Lomo 130A. In Germany there were a limited number of Sokol model also known as Revue Auto RS and in Great Britain they could also be found as Aurora Automat.
The camera comes with a fixed focal length. The Industar-70 has a focal length of 50 mm and a maximum aperture of f/2.8 and does not have an autofocus function. The focus is set manually. With the help of the camera’s rangefinder, it is no longer necessary to estimate the distance to the subject, but it is displayed.
The Sokol Automat has a built-in light meter. At the lens there are six cells for measurement, later the number was reduced to three. The aperture and exposure time can be set fully automatically by the 35mm camera. The aperture and exposure time can be freely adjusted according to the photographer’s wishes.
The Sokol Automat has a bulb mode. The shutter can remain open for a variable time. An external flash unit can be used via the PC flash socket. The Copal shutter allows the use of a flash at all exposure times.
Films for the Sokol Automat
The Sokol Automat is an analogue camera and needs to be equipped with 35mm film. The 35mm format is the most common film format. Therefore, some manufacturers still produce for this format. Possible films for the Sokol Automat are the Kodak Portra 400* and the Ilford HP5*.
The photographer has to rewind the film manually. The Sokol Automat offers the possibility to connect a cable release and has a thread for a tripod. A camera strap can also be connected to the camera without any problems.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Rangefinder camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 50 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/2.8 |
| Focus | Manual |
| Rangefinder | Yes |
| Exposure times | 1/500 second to 1/30 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | PC-Flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | No |
| End of production | 1978 |
| Production duration | 12 years |
| Estimated value / Used price | 120,47 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 3 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 21,39 Euro (22.73 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 42,85 Euro (45.46 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 62,89 Euro (67.11 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Sokol Automat
Is the Sokol Automat a simple camera to use?
Yes, it's relatively straightforward. While it doesn't have autofocus, the rangefinder helps with focusing, and the automatic exposure mode makes shooting easier for beginners. The manual controls also allow for more creative adjustments.
What type of lens does this camera have?
The Sokol Automat has a fixed 50mm Industar-70 lens with a maximum aperture of f/2.8. It's a prime lens, meaning it has one focal length, which is good for versatility. It does not have autofocus; you'll adjust the focus manually.
How does the exposure work on the Sokol Automat?
The camera has a built-in light meter which helps to determine the aperture and shutter speed. It offers automatic exposure settings, but you can also adjust the aperture and shutter speed manually for more control.
Can I use a flash with the Sokol Automat?
Yes, the Sokol Automat has a PC sync socket for connecting an external flash. The Copal shutter allows flash synchronization across all shutter speeds, giving you more lighting possibilities.
What kind of film does the Sokol Automat use?
The Sokol Automat uses standard 35mm film, also known as 135 film. This is a widely available format, so you'll find many film types to experiment with. You have to advance the film manually.