The FEX Elitepursues the design improvements initiated with the
FEX 4.5. From this last one; it uses
the same body as well as the poor grey paint. The serie FEX Elite has been produced in a variety of five models
distributed on two generations. The three models of the first generation
are mono-format.
FEX Elite (2nd generation - 1st variant) - 1959
FEX Elite (2nd generation - 2nd variant) - 1960
With the second generation, the
FEX Elite becomes bi-format (6 x6 cm and 6 x 9 cm)
but its optical characteristics do not change.
The model aside is the last evolution which appeared in 1959. It can
be identified because of its shutter release which is now located on the
top of the camera and no more on the shutter.
The meniscus lens Tourret-Narat and the shutter are identical to
those which equip the Ultra-Fex series.The main characteristics of this camera are :
Three speeds : 1/25 sec, 1/100 sec and Pause P.
Two apertures labelled "Normal" and "Intense".
This camera is
equipped with the security system which locks the shutter
release as long as the lens is not in position (see the picture aside).
This special system is present only onto the last versions of the
Ultra-FEX.
Because of its Bi-Format capability, two flaps are present on both sides
of the lens. They had to be positioned when using a 6 x 6 format film.
Circa 1960, this camera receives some slight modifications :
disappearance of the holes for loop, larger viewfinder, new range of
shutter speeds : 1/25 sec, 1/50 sec et 1/100 sec.
The FEX Elite 2nd
generation -
2nd variant has been saved
in extremis from the trash by a
friend of mine who had the good idea to ask me about it. This camera was
in his wife's family and shooted the Communion of his father-in-law.
Thanks to Arnaud & Julie for this
camera which enriched my collection but also will always remember me a
great weekend.
This camera is
equipped with the security system which locks the shutter
release as long as the lens is not in position (see the picture aside).
The FEX Elite 2nd
generation