A camera made by Alsaphot
Alasaphot was a French brand that existed from 1947 to 1970 [1]. It made a name for itself by creating unusual cameras such as this Ajax D, produced from 1953 to 1954 [2].
An atypical camera
Whereas the vast majority of compact medium-format cameras of the time featured a bellows to be portable, the Ajax D used a retractable tube.
The Ajax D works with 120 format film and produces 6×6 cm images.
The advantage of a retractable tube
This design offers greater comfort for the user:
- The lens controls (focus, aperture, and speeds) are more easily accessible than on a bellows camera.
- Extending and retracting the lens is easier and faster;
- The grip is better. The Ajax D is easier to hold than a bellows camera;
A system that has a disadvantage
However, as you can see in the photo above, this choice also results in a less compact device.
A bellows fits easily into a coat pocket, as does the Ajax D, but it’s less comfortable.
A rustic camera
Ajax D offers the bare minimum:
There is no rangefinder to assist with focusing.
However, there is a 4-millimeter square sports viewfinder. The viewfinder remains functional and usable for those who do not wear glasses.
There is no winding lever; the film is advanced by turning a dial with the help of the red window on the back.
Similarly, we regret the absence of a cover to prevent light leaks at the window used to check the film advance.
The back must be removed in order to change the film. Loading is easy.
The lens
Ajax D and the Ajax range, which lasted until 1961, offered two lens options [3]:
- A triplet (Boyer Topaz 75mm f4.5);
- A tessar (Boyer Saphir 75mm f4.5).
The most desirable version is obviously the Saphir with its Tessar optical formula, which offers better image quality.
The Saphir lens on my camera produced good images, even though the results were marred by light leaks. The sharpness is good and the details stand out well.
However, the contrast is lacking because of the lack of a proper coating on the lens.
Images taken with an Ajax D and its Saphir 75mm F4.5 lens:
Conclusion
Despite its austerity, the camera is pleasant to use and produces good images. However, I have serious reservations about the lack of a rear cover, which tends to cause light leaks (unless this is caused by something else?).
In short, if you have a good model and can cope with the camera’s austerity (focusing by eye, taking care not to overexpose, etc.), you will find the Ajax D to be a discreet and effective companion.
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