Rubix (Deluxe)

Introduction | Rubix (Inexpensive) | Rubix (Deluxe) | Rubix 16 | Rubix 16 (patents) | Rubix 16 (patents, Rubina) | Rubina | Rubix III

See "Spy Camera" page 64-65 Michael Pritchard and Douglas St. Denny.

Rubix cameras were made by Sugaya Optical Works in Japan. The cameras are better made than most of the post war Japanese subminiature production and shaped like a  tiny Leica. Using the same 17.5mm paper-backed film as the "HIT" cameras the Rubix produced acceptable quality 10x14mm negatives.

The original model in two variations appeared in 1947 know as the Inexpensive and the Deluxe. The whole top plate enclosure , including the optical viewfinder, was plated to the left of the body mounted shutter release. The film wind knob was located at the extreme right with a counter to 8. Both Rubix cameras used the same Hope f2.8/25mm lens. The Deluxe model 25mm f2.8-f16 lens is fixed focus and the mount was designed for interchangeable lenses; which were never made. The Inexpensive lens was fixed focus. The speeds on both cameras were B, 1/25 - 1/150. These were set on a sliding lever on the front of the camera body.  Another sliding lever cocked the shutter and the shutter release was on the top of the camera - very unusual with these types of cameras. The camera had a tiny accessory shoe on the top. The front plate is marked "HOPE".

Model Rubix Inexpensive Rubix Deluxe
Finish/colour chrome, black leatherette chrome, black leatherette
Lens 25mm Hope f2.8 25mm Hope f2.8 interchangable
Shutter B, 1/25-1/150 B, 1/25-1/150
Aperture f2.8 f2.8-f16
Film Door lock    
Case    
Box    
Instructions    
Dimensions 66x44x38 mm (width x height x depth)  (width x height x depth)
Weight 116g  
Purchased 2003/11/16  
Date of Manufacture    
Cost 168.50USD  
Current Value    
Auction Price Ebay
*2003/11/16 168.50USD (case), 2005/04/21 271.66USD, *2006/05/30 203.50USD,  2006/09/09 77USD, 2007/01/21 129USD, 2007/08/03 282USD (with Rubix 16)
 
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Last Updated on 24th June 2005