Exakta Varex IIa | Carl Zeiss Jena Tessar 50mm f/2.8

Exakta Varex IIa | Carl Zeiss Jena Tessar 50mm f/2.8 - Good Condition | The Pinnacle of Dresden Precision

The Exakta Varex IIa (also known as the Varex VXIIa) is a masterpiece of East German engineering from the prestigious Ihagee factory in Dresden. As one of the world’s first system SLRs, it is famous for its unique, left-handed operation and exquisite mechanical build quality. This model features the iconic "Eagle Eye" Carl Zeiss Jena Tessar 50mm f/2.8 lens, celebrated for its legendary sharpness and high-contrast rendering. With its interchangeable viewfinders and an incredibly wide range of shutter speeds, the Varex IIa is not just a camera—it is a piece of photographic history that offers a truly unique and deliberate analog experience.

Key Features

• Precision-engineered all-metal body from the historic Ihagee Dresden works

• Carl Zeiss Jena Tessar 50mm f/2.8 lens with the classic four-element design

• Unique left-handed film advance and shutter release for a distinctive shooting feel

• Fully interchangeable viewfinder system (currently equipped with waist-level or prism)

• Massive shutter speed range from 1/1000s down to 12 full seconds

• Built-in film cutting knife for removing partially exposed rolls in the darkroom

Technical Specifications

• Camera Type: 35mm SLR

• Lens Mount: Exakta Bayonet

• Shutter Speeds: 1/1000s to 12s + Bulb & Time

• Lens: Carl Zeiss Jena Tessar 50mm f/2.8

• Category: Cameras ▸ 35mm SLR Camera

• Battery Type: None (Fully Mechanical)

Specialist Note "The Exakta Varex IIa is often described as the 'Leica of SLRs.' The mechanical complexity inside this camera is staggering—it has a slow-speed dial that allows for exposures up to 12 seconds, which was unheard of for its time. The Tessar lens is a perfect match; its 'Eagle Eye' reputation for sharpness is well-deserved even by modern standards. Shooting with an Exakta requires a different rhythm than any other camera, making it a favorite for collectors and photographers who want to truly engage with the mechanics of their craft."

Condition Report Good condition. The body (S/N: 918059) shows authentic vintage character and light surface wear consistent with its age. The Carl Zeiss Jena lens (S/N: 5535850) has clear optics with smooth focus and aperture movements. The mechanical shutter is operational across the speed range, and the film advance is crisp and precise.

What's Included

• Exakta Varex IIa Camera Body (S/N: 918059)

• Carl Zeiss Jena Tessar 50mm f/2.8 Lens (S/N: 5535850)