Kodak Signet 35, U.S. Air Force model. Finished in black paint.
Its designation is CAMERA, STILL PICTURE KE-7(1), the same as the U.S. Army Signal Corps model covered in olive drab leather. Manufactured in the 1950s.
Charming in styling yet clad in bold black paint, this camera is equipped with a coupled rangefinder and a 44 mm Ektar lens. It is a very appealing package that speaks to a man’s sense of style, and the 44 mm focal length is also well suited for street snapshots.
Despite its cute appearance, it is a genuine military camera. The large, easy-to-operate dials and knobs, along with its minimal functions and compact size, must have been the key points for adoption. Normally there is no civilian serial number; instead, a military contract number is engraved on an aluminum plate on the base. This example, however, does not have the aluminum plate. It may have been released onto the market as surplus. A rare piece.

There are few signs of use, and for a military Signet 35 it is in very clean condition. Some aging-related dullness can be seen, but overall it is in excellent condition.
All functions work properly. The helicoid operation feels slightly scratchy. There is a slight haze in the prism of the finder, but the visibility remains within practical range.
Originally, the small metal knob at the bottom front of the camera must be operated to release the double exposure lock in order to fire a blank shutter, but on this individual the shutter can be fired blank after pressing it multiple times. This should not cause any practical issues.
Comes with the original leather case and a Kodak hood that supports Series filters. A Series 5 filter can be inserted between the hood and the hood base. This one has a soft-focus glass fitted.
Please note that if the hood is screwed in too tightly, the lens itself may rotate, so it is advised to screw it in with light torque.
Offered as-is.