The Zorki 2 is a Russian rangefinder camera. It was built near Moscow from 1954 to 1956 by KMZ, who were also responsible for the Zenit camera. However, it was only produced in the range of 10,000 units.
The Zorki 2 is identical to the Zorki 1 in terms of body and most functions, the biggest difference being that it has a self-timer. It was also given hooks for a camera strap.
Functions
The Zorki 2 features an M39 screw thread lens mount that accepts a variety of lenses from different manufacturers. This means that the camera is versatile enough to use both wide-angle and telephoto lenses to capture different subjects and scenarios. However, the camera is very basic in design and lacks the variety of features that modern cameras have. There is no autofocus, no light meter, and no built-in flash.
Instead, the Zorki 2 relies on the photographer to make all adjustments manually. Focus is set manually via the lens ring, while shutter speeds can be adjusted via the dial on the top of the camera. Shutter speeds range from 1/500 sec to 1/25 sec, with the Bulb setting allowing the photographer to keep the shutter open as long as they like.
Another interesting feature of the Zorki 2 is the rangefinder. The rangefinder is an optical viewfinder that, unlike SLR viewfinders, does not use moving mirrors. Instead, it uses two images seen through two separate lenses to provide parallax correction. This means that the image seen in the viewfinder more accurately represents what is being captured. However, the rangefinder is also more difficult to use than an SLR viewfinder because you’re not looking through the lens, so the viewfinder image doesn’t completely match the final result.
Films for the Zorki 2
According to the instruction manual, the Zorki 2 is loaded with 35mm film. 35mm film is still made today and is fairly easy to get. A good film choice is the Fujifilm Superia 400* for color images and the Ilford XP2 Super* for black and white images.
The development process for the color film is the C-41 process. The C-41 process is standardized and offered by most developing labs.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Rangefinder camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | M39 lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Rangefinder | Yes |
| Exposure times | 1/500 second, 1/250 second, 1/100 second, 1/50 second, 1/25 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Country of production | Soviet Union (USSR) |
| End of production | 1956 |
| Production duration | 2 years |
| Estimated value / Used price | 136,56 Euro 222,99200,28133,301060,36116,8722430,661591,38146,57 Estimate based on used prices of 27 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of 6.5.2024 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 125,31 Euro (135.30 US-Dollar) |