Page 14 - RD_2023-03

KODAK’S TRIUMPH!
THE CINE-KODAK SPECIAL
Mike Trickett
The Cine-Kodak Special 16mm
Cameras were a family of
precision, versatile, spring-wound
16mm silent movie cameras
produced by Eastman Kodak from
the 1930s to 1960s, they were
intended for advanced consumers
and industry professionals.

While its rectangular format was
typical of earlier Kodak 16 mm
cameras (such as Cine-Kodak,
Kodak Models B, F and K), the
body was formed by two joined
sections: the spring motor half
with the user controls, winding cranks, and gear work to the shutter. The other half was the film
magazine which docked to the motor section. The magazine was available in two formats: the
standard 100 ft capacity unit with matching dimensions to the motor unit, and the 200 ft version.

The light proof film chambers allowed the cinematographer to pre-load multiple magazines of
film for quick interchange. Standard features included: Interchangeable lenses, Variable shutter
for creating fades and dissolve effects, Reflex focusing, Quick-change film magazines, 100 or
200 ft film magazines, A chime warning when the spring drive is almost unwound, Manual
cranking shafts: 1 frame per turn and 8 frames per turn.
These cameras were highly regarded by professional users because of the pin register system
incorporated in the mechanism. This was a device which engaged with the film when it was
stationary in the gate, preventing any movement during exposure, giving rock-stead images.

Above left: The camera body (top) and the two magazines, 100 ft (left)
and the 200 ft version.

Above right: The 200 ft magazine showing the film transport mecha-
nism. .
Left: One of the special mount interchangeable lenses.

Camera and inages: Mike Trickett - Cinepix collection.
14 REEL DEALS March 2023