Werra 1 (Green) with 50mm f/2.8 Tessar

Werra 1 (Green) with 50mm f/2.8 Tessar | S/N: [Pending]

Werra 1 Green 50mm f/2.8 Tessar - Good Condition | The Iconic East German Bauhaus Masterpiece

Introductory Paragraph The Werra is the definitive choice for the enthusiast who values the radical, minimalist aesthetics of the mid-century Bauhaus movement. Named after the river near the Carl Zeiss Jena factory in East Germany, this iconic "green" version is celebrated for its streamlined, button-free top plate and its ingenious winding system located on the lens barrel. This unit is equipped with the legendary Carl Zeiss Jena Tessar 50mm f/2.8 lens (S/N: 5723990), a four-element masterpiece known as the "Eagle Eye" for its exceptional sharpness and contrast. Because it features a unique reversible lens hood that also acts as a protective cap, it serves as an incredibly capable tool for discreet street photography and travel. Whether you are a fan of avant-garde industrial design or a purist seeking the unrivaled rendering of Zeiss optics, this Werra provides the mechanical charm and optical brilliance that define a cult classic.

Key Features

• Sharp 50mm f/2.8 Carl Zeiss Jena Tessar lens (S/N: 5723990) delivering world-class resolution.

• Revolutionary lens-barrel winding system (rotating ring) for rapid, ergonomic film advance.

• Minimalist "flat-top" design with almost no protruding controls, emphasizing pure functional form.

• Unique reversible lens hood that flips to serve as a secure lens cover when not in use.

• Synchro-Compur or Prestor RVS shutter with speeds up to 1/500s for versatile exposure control.

• Distinctive olive green vulcanite covering, making it one of the most recognizable cameras in history.

• Fully mechanical, battery-free operation for reliable performance in any climate.

Condition Report Good condition. Body: The Werra camera body shows normal signs of light use and minor cosmetic surface wear consistent with its vintage age. The signature green covering is well-preserved. Note: The light meter is currently non-functional; however, the camera remains fully operational in manual mode. Sensor/Optics: The 50mm f/2.8 Tessar lens is optically clear; free from fungus, haze, or significant scratches. The viewfinder is bright and provides a clear framing experience. Mechanics/Electronics: The unique barrel-winding mechanism is smooth and snappy. The shutter fires correctly across all speeds and the film transport functions as intended.

Specialist Note "The Werra is unlike any other camera you will ever hold. What I love about this model is the 'clean' look—by moving the advance and shutter controls to the lens area, Zeiss Jena created a silhouette that still looks futuristic today. It’s a rugged, honest piece of East German engineering that rewards the photographer with a very tactile, involved shooting experience. Even with the light meter out of action, the Tessar glass is the real reason to own this; it produces a punchy, high-micro-contrast image that modern lenses often lack. For anyone looking for a conversation-starting 35mm classic, this green Werra is a top-tier choice."

What's Included

• Werra 1 35mm Viewfinder Camera (Green Version)

• 50mm f/2.8 Carl Zeiss Jena Tessar Lens (S/N: 5723990)

• Integrated Reversible Lens Hood / Cap
  

Technical Specifications

• Brand: Carl Zeiss Jena (Werra)

• Model: Werra 1

• Camera Type: Compact Film Camera

• Lens: 50mm f/2.8 Tessar

• Shutter: Leaf Shutter (up to 1/500s)

• Film Format: 35mm (Full-Frame)

• Category: 1. Cameras ▸ Digital Compact Camera (Note: Best fits Compact Film Camera equivalent)

• Battery Type: None (Manual operation)