Spartus "35" Model 400

Spartus "35" Model 400

Spartus "35" Model 400 - Good Condition | The Quintessential American Bakelite Classic

Introductory Paragraph The Spartus "35" Model 400 is the definitive choice for the enthusiast who values raw vintage aesthetics and the tactile charm of mid-century American camera design. Manufactured in Chicago by the Spartus Camera Corp., this camera is celebrated for its iconic Bakelite construction and absolute mechanical simplicity. Because it utilizes standard 35mm film, it serves as an incredibly accessible tool for modern photographers looking to experiment with "lo-fi" or toy camera photography, capturing images with a distinct, dreamy, and nostalgic character. Whether you are a collector of classic Americana or a creative shooter seeking to break away from clinical digital perfection, this Spartus provides the historical charm and straightforward joy of the earliest days of mass-market consumer photography.

Key Features

• Classic American mid-century design constructed from durable, stylized black Bakelite

• Shoots standard, easily accessible 35mm roll film for modern convenience

• Extremely simple operation with a fixed-focus meniscus lens for classic lo-fi rendering

• Basic rotary shutter with 'Instant' and 'Time' settings for daylight shooting and long exposures

• Direct optical viewfinder for quick, intuitive, and unbothered framing

• Lightweight, highly tactile body that serves equally well as a beautiful display piece or a creative tool

• Purely mechanical operation, ensuring it is always ready to shoot without the need for power

Condition Report Good condition. The Spartus camera body shows normal signs of light use and minor cosmetic surface wear consistent with its mid-century vintage. The Bakelite casing is fully intact without major cracks or structural damage. The simple fixed-focus lens is optically clear; free from fungus, haze, or significant scratches. The mechanical rotary shutter actuates correctly on both Instant and Time settings. The film transport knobs turn smoothly.

Specialist Note "The Spartus '35' is a wonderful piece of camera history. What I love about this model is how unapologetically basic it is. It embodies the 'toy camera' aesthetic long before the Holga or Diana became popular. The Bakelite body feels fantastic in the hands, and because it takes standard 35mm film, you can easily load it up and shoot it today without hunting for expired or obscure film formats. It’s a rugged, honest piece of USA manufacturing that yields beautifully imperfect, moody images. For anyone looking to add a true conversation piece to their collection, this is a fantastic choice."

What's Included

• Spartus "35" Model 400 Camera
  

Technical Specifications

• Brand: Spartus Camera Corp.

• Model: "35" Model 400

• Camera Type: Compact Film Camera

• Film Format: 35mm

• Lens: Fixed-Focus Meniscus

• Shutter: Rotary (Instant / Time)

• Category: 1. Cameras ▸ Compact Film Camera

• Battery Type: None (Fully Mechanical)