The Toyoca Flex 35, nicknamed the horizontal twin-lens camera, was released by Tougodo in 1955. It is the only horizontal twin-lens reflex camera in the world that uses 35mm film. Both the taking lens and the viewing lens are Aura Anastigmat 45mm f3.5 lenses.

In terms of usability it was not particularly bad, but due to the fact that the waist-level finder had to be placed next to the lenses, the body ended up as wide as a medium format camera. Combined with the somewhat awkward design of the horizontal twin-lens concept, its hefty weight of 831g, and a shutter speed topping out at only 1/300 second, one can easily imagine why it did not sell well. As a result, only a small number reached the market, and it has since become a prized collector’s item.

The waist-level finder is set slightly to the left when holding the camera. While unique and original, the horizontal twin-lens design itself appears to have offered almost no real advantage. Remarkably, a parallax warning line for close-up photography is engraved vertically on the right side of the finder screen—an extraordinary feature not seen on any of the tens of thousands of cameras ever produced. The finder loupe must be adjusted with a lever located beside the finder hood so that the screen comes into proper focus.

This is a rare and unusual camera, packed with inventive mechanisms where originality is everything.

It is in beautiful condition. The black paint shows only minimal loss, with little sign of use and no noticeable scratches or scuffs. Fully overhauled in August 2025, all functions operate smoothly, and the finder provides a clear view. The taking lens glass shows slight coating deterioration that could not be removed in regular servicing, but it is minor and will not affect image quality. Comes with the original leather case, which has the name of a previous owner, likely European or American, handwritten inside. The strap section is broken. With its fine condition, this camera is also well suited for a collection.