Inspected at 28 points by our technicians. Every unit is unique. More details
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CAMERAMARKET10
Extended warranty 6 months included · extend to 12 or 24
Protect your purchase for longer.
Your camera ships with warranty included. Extend it if you want professional photographer peace of mind.
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View warranty terms and conditionsA historic piece of American photography. The Argus A was the camera that democratized the 35 mm format in the United States during the 1930s.
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Key features
- Years of production: 1936-1941
- Manufacturer: International Research Corporation, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Format: 35 mm film
- Lens: 50 mm f/4.5 collapsible anastigmat
- Shutter: Ilex Precise (1/200, 1/100, 1/50, 1/25, B, T)
- Focus: Zone focus (portrait, group, landscape)
- Construction: Bakelite body
Condition and state
Vintage unit in collector's condition. The specific condition may vary depending on availability. Check the photographs to see the exact item you will receive.
Why is the Argus A important?
This camera represents a turning point in the history of photography. With an original price of only 12.50 USD (compared to more than 100 USD for a Leica), the Argus A made 35 mm photography accessible to the American middle class for the first time.
Perfect for vintage camera collectors, analog photography enthusiasts, or anyone interested in owning an authentic piece of photographic history.
Note: This is a vintage camera more than 80 years old. It is sold as a collector's piece. Functionality may vary.
What condition is the camera in?
Every camera that leaves Camera Market goes through a 28-point inspection protocol: shutter condition, autofocus accuracy, sensor integrity, seal tightness, electronic viewfinder calibration, battery health, and eight further tests on connectivity and firmware.
The specific cosmetic condition (marks, scratches, signs of use) is documented in the actual photographs and in the technical table on the product page. We do not use catalogue images.
What is included in the purchase?
You receive the Argus A Camera (1936-1941) - Vintage 35mm body tested and ready to use, with the 28-point inspection and the warranty included. As a pre-owned product, it does not include the original box or a memory card; depending on the unit it may include a generic battery and/or charger (not original).
Want to know exactly what accessories this particular unit comes with? Message us on the website chat and we'll confirm before you buy.
What warranty does it have?
All our products include warranty covering functional defects and technical faults.
You can extend the coverage from the warranty section on this same page:
- 12 months for €19,90 · single payment
- 24 months for €33,31 · single payment · recommended
We also offer 14-day returns with no questions asked. If you are not satisfied, full refund.
How long does shipping take?
Standard shipping to the EU in 4–5 business days with tracking number. For mainland Spain, express 24–48 h option available at checkout.
Technical packaging with custom-cut foam and tamper-evident seals. Transit insurance included.
Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes, without reservation. It has full automatic modes and eye-detection autofocus that works practically by itself, so you can start taking professional photos from day one.
When you grow, the manual controls and customisation curve are exactly what you would expect from a professional body. It is a camera you can learn with for years.
Why buy refurbished?
For three honest reasons: price (between 20 and 40% below new on high-end models), sustainability (keeping a body in circulation avoids manufacturing a new one and all its waste), and transparency: every unit has its own serial number, visible shutter count and inspection date.
Market depreciation does not affect optical or electronic performance. A well-kept, inspected item performs exactly like a new one.
Full condition scale
Each unit is inspected at 28 points and graded honestly. Here's how we translate each level so you know what to expect:
Barely any signs of use. Almost flawless aesthetics and perfect operation.
Light marks from normal use. Optically clean and fully functional.
Visible signs of use (scuffs, marks, brassing). Works perfectly.
Not guaranteed for use: sold for parts or repair.
Why buy used?
Depreciation is already absorbed: the same gear for much less than new.
Many classics and discontinued gems only exist today on the used market.
28-point inspection and warranty included on every unit.
Extending the life of a camera avoids manufacturing and transporting a new one.
