Robot I Model. Introduced in 1934, this is a 24x24mm square format scale focus camera with a spring motor wind. It uses a dedicated Robot screw mount lens. According to the classification by the famous French Robot collector Claude BELLON, this is a Version 3 of the Robot I model, manufactured around 1936.
The built-in green filter and the side-mounted viewfinder with its deep blue appearance add to its charm. Compared to later models, the Robot I is especially compact and adorable, making it a camera you can’t help but love. However, it’s also known for its unstable operation, with few well-functioning examples, making it a challenge for camera shops. This particular unit has been fully serviced and is in perfect working condition.
A Carl Zeiss Jena Tessar 3cm f2.8 lens is included.
At the end of the 1990s, during a purchasing trip to Odense, Denmark, I acquired this camera from a Robot collector. In the back shed of Mr. N's large garage, where yachts were also parked, an astonishing number of Robot and Voigtländer cameras were neatly displayed along with their documentation. It's a fond memory of being plied with plenty of Aquavit while listening to him proudly showcase his collection.
After being serviced in Japan, this camera was sold at our store in Kita-Aoyama, where it was cherished by a customer. It's a delightful reunion!
The exterior shows scuffs and minor scratches in various places, and the chrome plating on the shutter release area is worn. However, there are no noticeable dents or other significant damage. While many Robot I models show heavy signs of use, this unit is in relatively good condition.
A professional technician has performed disassembly and cleaning of the shutter mechanism, applied fresh grease, adjusted the slow shutter speeds, and addressed light leaks. The view through the viewfinder is clear. The rare film magazines specific to the I model are both in good condition, with no broken tabs.
The lens shows some cleaning marks, discoloration, and minor haze. However, the helicoid and aperture mechanisms are functioning properly.
A functional test was conducted with film loaded, and due to a weakened spring, continuous shooting is limited to about 6 to 7 frames. However, considering that most Robot I models have weak mainsprings, this one is in quite good working condition, with no overlapping frames.
Please note that the Robot camera is designed to wind the film and operate the shutter with tension on the film. Therefore, be careful not to dry-fire it excessively (though I must admit, it's rather enjoyable, which is a bit of a problem...).
A quick-draw case, which appears to be for the later II model rather than the I model, is included. The position of the tripod screw on the leather case has been modified.
