Item condition | Folding cameras
What we test
Shutter release mechanism
Triggers reliably and resets cleanly
Film advance
Transports evenly, does not block, clamps reliably.
Viewfinder/Viewfinder image
- Visible, without heavy soiling
- No cloudiness
Bellows
Surface checked for scratches and cloudiness (light dust is normal) – light tightness
Front lens/glas
Check for scratches, haze, and fungal growth
Locking function
All times run through smoothly, without any loss of accuracy (not checked!).
+ Light meter depending on the model – reacts to light and plausibly (not tested for accuracy)
What we do not test
Frame counter or self-timer
GOOD
Fully functional
Light to normal signs of use may be present. These do not affect functionality.
ACCEPTABLE
Functional
Visible signs of use or slight play in the mechanism may be present.
PARTIALLY DEFECTIVE
Basic functions operational
Usable, but with a defective light meter or flash, depending on the type of camera.
FUNGUS
Suitable for collectors or repair enthusiasts
Fungus is present in the lens system and may affect image quality. The mechanism is intact.
DEFECTIVE APERTURE
Limited functionality
The aperture mechanism is faulty or blocked. All other functions are intact.
DEFECTIVE
Not functional
Suitable for spare parts or decorative purposes. May have technical faults, fungus, haze, scratches or a combination of these issues.

