127 - Franz Robert Neubert, Jena | Neucaflex Prototype + Primoplan 1.9/58 mm

Franz Robert Neubert, Jena | Neucaflex Prototype + Primoplan 1.9/58 mm Estimate: €12,000–14,000 Year: c.1949 Condition: B English: Prototype or developmental version of the exceptionally rare Neucaflex 35mm reflex camera, designed and manufactured by Franz Robert Neubert in Jena. This camera differs substantially in construction and external details from the very few other Neucaflex cameras currently documented. It bears no serial number and is prominently engraved with “Neucaflex,” the FRN monogram, “Franz Robert Neubert – D.R.P. ang.,” and “Made in Germany.” It is fitted with a matching and very rare M39 Meyer-Optik Görlitz Primoplan 1.9/58 mm, no. 1144139 (with clean optics). The unusual configuration of the prism housing, viewfinder, controls, and lens mount assembly suggests an early stage of development for Neubert’s ingenious periscopic reflex system. Considering that only very few Neucaflex cameras are currently known, and that surviving examples exhibit significant construction differences, this camera appears to represent a previously undocumented variant and quite possibly a prototype preceding the very small-numbered production series. Provenance: Deutsches Fotomuseum, Markkleeberg German: Prototype or development variant of the extremely rare 35mm Neucaflex reflex camera, designed and manufactured by Franz Robert Neubert in Jena. This camera differs significantly in construction and external details from the few Neucaflex cameras documented to date. No serial number; features clearly visible engravings reading “Neucaflex,” the FRN monogram, “Franz Robert Neubert – D.R.P. ang.,” and “Made in Germany.” Includes a matching, extremely rare Meyer Optik Görlitz Primoplan 1.9/58 mm No. 1144139 with an M39 mount (lenses in good condition). The unusual design of the prism housing, viewfinder, controls, and lens mount suggests an early stage of development for Neubert’s sophisticated periscopic reflex system. Since very few Neucaflex cameras are known to exist overall, and even the surviving examples exhibit significant design differences, this camera is likely a previously unknown variant and possibly a prototype predating the very small numbered production run. Provenance: German Museum of Photography, Markkleeberg.