RICOH - 1956 - JAPAN (TOKYO)

• Reflex TLR
• 127 film
• Infrequent

While not incredibly rare, the Ricohmatic 44 serves as a captivating example of an ambitious yet largely unsuccessful attempt to enhance the user's photographic experience.

Ricoh's engineers dedicated their efforts to crafting an appealing design, highlighted by a stylish semi-transparent flip cover (though it unfortunately hinders camera usage). They introduced what they believed were user-friendly simplifications, such as replacing speed settings with abstract numbers 1 to 3 that required matching through a cryptic table on the back panel. Similarly, the centrally and awkwardly positioned shutter button under the taking lens created operational difficulties.

Though the Ricohmatic 44 boasts a beautiful and seamless build, its reputation is rooted in its comically non-intuitive and cryptic nature, which engenders fascination among enthusiasts.

Associated project shares

• 1 Share of the 99 Cameras Club project

Discover the club's camera collection. 99 Cameras Club for updates. Read the term and conditions. Note : This Collectible is not an official product from the represented camera manufacturer. It is a replica of an individual camera from the club's collection and holds no rights or relationships with its manufacturer. It should be regarded only as a token of patronage to the 99 Cameras Club.