A Website about Iloca Cameras and Associated Equipment
Iloca Ia
Iloca Ia
The Iloca Ia was introduced in the early 1950's, and is an updated version of the Iloca I. It is a fairly simple camera to use, except for the rather awkward film loading and film transport mechanism. The overall quality of components, such as the lens and shutter assemblies, is quite reasonable for this class of camera. The Iloca Ia is virtually identical to the Iloca IIa, except for the absence of a built-in rangefinder on the Iloca Ia.
The Iloca Ia offers some useful improvements over its predecessor, the main difference being the relocation of the shutter release button to the camera body. This change does away with at least one step in the film advance sequence - you no longer have to depress the film wind knob in order to advance the film frame counter. The later model also provides protection against unintentional double-exposures. The Prontor shutter versions offer an upgraded delayed action setting and an X flash synch setting, and this model was offered with a faster F2.9 45mm lens. There is also a version stamped "MADE FOR NAVY SERVICE". Some Iloca Ia models have a removable depth of field table on the camera back - handy if the film becomes jammed inside the camera.
The Iloca Ia remains fairly orthodox in specification with either Prontor–S, Prontor-SV or Vario shutters, and a Jlitar 45mm lens. Film transport and rewind knobs are located on the top plate, along with the film frame counter, the rewind lock, and the relocated shutter release button. Other controls are located on the shutter housing itself.
The film loading procedure can be a bit tricky with this camera. It is critical that the film is correctly located on the 'out-of-sight' sprockets. If it does not locate properly, then the film will most likely jam or tear, or cause sporadic film advance at the very least - a bit of a disaster, and probably the main factor for the unreliable reputation that these early models gained.
However, with some care, a photographer should be able to load and shoot a full roll without too much drama. In other respects, the camera's compact, slender one-piece body housing is quite comfortable to hold and use.
The early series cameras had a relatively short production lifespan before the introduction of new models with removable camera backs and completely redesigned film loading and film transport mechanisms.
Some tips for loading film into this model camera: Slide the catch to the 'o' position, then remove the base plate. Remove the film take-up spool and feed the end of the film into the slot in the spool. Next, insert the film canister and take-up spool, together with the film, into their respective housings in the camera, ensuring that all components are correctly positioned in order to avoid problems when advancing the film. The film, film canister and take-up spool should be inserted completely into the camera leaving no portion protruding, and there should not be any excess pressure on the base plate. Replace the base plate and close the catch.
The Iloca Ia offers some useful improvements over its predecessor, the main difference being the relocation of the shutter release button to the camera body. This change does away with at least one step in the film advance sequence - you no longer have to depress the film wind knob in order to advance the film frame counter. The later model also provides protection against unintentional double-exposures. The Prontor shutter versions offer an upgraded delayed action setting and an X flash synch setting, and this model was offered with a faster F2.9 45mm lens. There is also a version stamped "MADE FOR NAVY SERVICE". Some Iloca Ia models have a removable depth of field table on the camera back - handy if the film becomes jammed inside the camera.
The Iloca Ia remains fairly orthodox in specification with either Prontor–S, Prontor-SV or Vario shutters, and a Jlitar 45mm lens. Film transport and rewind knobs are located on the top plate, along with the film frame counter, the rewind lock, and the relocated shutter release button. Other controls are located on the shutter housing itself.
The film loading procedure can be a bit tricky with this camera. It is critical that the film is correctly located on the 'out-of-sight' sprockets. If it does not locate properly, then the film will most likely jam or tear, or cause sporadic film advance at the very least - a bit of a disaster, and probably the main factor for the unreliable reputation that these early models gained.
However, with some care, a photographer should be able to load and shoot a full roll without too much drama. In other respects, the camera's compact, slender one-piece body housing is quite comfortable to hold and use.
The early series cameras had a relatively short production lifespan before the introduction of new models with removable camera backs and completely redesigned film loading and film transport mechanisms.
Some tips for loading film into this model camera: Slide the catch to the 'o' position, then remove the base plate. Remove the film take-up spool and feed the end of the film into the slot in the spool. Next, insert the film canister and take-up spool, together with the film, into their respective housings in the camera, ensuring that all components are correctly positioned in order to avoid problems when advancing the film. The film, film canister and take-up spool should be inserted completely into the camera leaving no portion protruding, and there should not be any excess pressure on the base plate. Replace the base plate and close the catch.
In Summary
An updated version of Iloca's entry model into the camera market, this camera offers several improvments over its predecessor. It is a relatively simple, compact design, but does have a rather awkward film loading and film transport mechanism. Provided the film is loaded correctly, the camera is capable of producing quite acceptable results under favourable conditions.
Specifications: Iloca Ia
- Camera Type: 35 mm Compact Camera
- Format: 35mm film format producing image sizes 24mm x 36mm
- Shutter: Prontor–S or -SV with speeds 'B', 1, 1/2, 1/5, 1/10, 1/25, 1/50, 1/100, 1/300 sec, with delayed action lever and M, X flash synch settings; or
Vario with speeds 'B', 1/25, 1/75, 1/200 - Lenses: Jlitar 1:2.9 / 45 mm, focus range 3' 9'' (1.2 metre) to ∞
- Aperture: F2.9 to F22
- Delayed Action: Approx 10 seconds (Prontor shutter versions)
- Flash Capability: Flash Contact Socket
- Frame Counter: 0 to 36
- Rangefinder: No
- Lightmeter: No
- Other Features: Tripod Mount, Leather Camera Case, Cable Release Socket
Camera Gallery: Iloca Ia
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