Vintage Find: Zeiss Ikon Contaflex IV

Last weekend I went gallivanting around the charming market town of Dorking with Tash. She had been bangin' on about how amazing it was and so I asked her to finally take me, and so she did. Surprise, surprise- it was amazing! A total antiquarian's dream. I even found the ring of my dreams! Of course it was way over my budget, but I did find something else that I loved and it was a total bargain considering its good shape. Lo, and behold- My Zeiss Ikon Contaflex IV! Just so you know, I'm not a photography expert whatsoever. I collect these vintage cameras because they are beautiful pieces, and when they do work- the photos are priceless. WHAT Instagram?? ^^

I took this photo while waiting at the Dorking train station. I know. Classy. 

Launched in 1956, the Contaflex IV was part of a long line of 35mm SLR cameras produced by Zeiss Ikon. The range is one of the earliest SLR cameras equipped with leaf shutters. Unlike I and II, models III and IV were given interchangeable lenses and at the time you could switch from 35mm to 115mm which was regarded as sufficient. I've only started playing with it this week, and thankfully the camera came with a manual. Granted it is a III manual but they are quite similar so it still comes in handy. It also came with a snazzy leather case, which is about the toughest camera case I have ever felt. The leather feels like it can take bullets. 

Film Rolling: Polesden Lacey (10.2012)

During a long weekend visit around Tasha's in Redhill, we decided to go for a Sunday drive. There was nothing to do and since the weather was holding up nicely, we decided to spend the afternoon at Polesden Lacey. At first I thought they kept saying Postlewaithe to which I continually replied, 'Is that a place? Isn't that like south of the border...near Plymouth?'. Geography is clearly not my strongest suit but upon Googling, I found out that it was an Edwardian manor house near Dorking, along the rolling hills of Redhill (Fun Fact: Tasha's great great...granny aunt or something played piano at the house. She was even in one of those creepy Edwardian group portraits! Lots of cankles and ribbons). It was a lovely place, and having the sun that day was divine..which may surprise some of you as I like dwelling in the grey. The light just made the whole place gleam. The trees were greener, the gilded interior shone like Versailles, and the grounds looked positively serene and well manicured (but then again, if it wasn't, the National Trust would not have been doing their job properly!) There were a lot of picnic goers and it was an ideal day for it. Also, lots of sheep. Anyway, enjoy the snaps!