Meopta Mikroma is a series of subminiature cameras produced by the Czechoslovakian optical company Meopta from the late 1940s into the 1960s. Known for its compact size and use of 16mm film, the Mikroma was a significant player in the subminiature camera market, offering a more affordable alternative to competitors like Minox while maintaining good optical quality for its class.
History and Development
Meopta (originally Optikotechna) was a prominent optical manufacturer based in Přerov, Czechoslovakia (now Czech Republic), with a long history in producing lenses, projectors, enlargers, and cameras. The Mikroma camera line emerged in the post-World War II era, capitalizing on the growing demand for miniature, discreet cameras for candid photography and espionage, though its primary market was general consumer use.
The first model, often referred to as the Mikroma I, was introduced around 1948-1950. It was designed to use standard 16mm film, which was typically split from larger 35mm rolls or available as bulk 16mm stock, loaded into proprietary Meopta cassettes. The camera produced small negative formats, typically 10x14mm or 12x14mm. Its robust construction and relatively sharp lens made it a popular choice for its size.
Models and Variants
- Mikroma I: The initial model, characterized by its straightforward design and often featuring a Meopta Mirar 20mm f/3.5 lens. It utilized a focal plane shutter with a range of speeds.
- Mikroma II: An improved version introduced in the mid-1950s. While retaining the core specifications, it often featured minor cosmetic changes, improved controls (such as a more convenient shutter release or film advance), and sometimes variations in the lens or aperture mechanism (e.g., a greater number of aperture blades for smoother bokeh). The Mikroma II is the most commonly encountered variant.
- ALPEN: This was a re-branded version of the Mikroma II, primarily marketed in the United States and other Western markets. It is functionally identical to the Mikroma II but carries the "ALPEN" nameplate.
- Stereomikroma: A rare and unique variant, the Stereomikroma featured two identical lenses and shutters, allowing it to capture stereo pairs on 16mm film. It is highly sought after by collectors due to its rarity and innovative design for a subminiature camera.
Technical Specifications (Common to most Mikroma II models)
- Film Type: 16mm film, loaded into proprietary Meopta cassettes.
- Negative Size: Approximately 10x14mm or 12x14mm.
- Lens: Meopta Mirar 20mm f/3.5 (some sources indicate f/4.5 for earlier models or variants). Aperture range typically f/3.5 to f/16.
- Focusing: Front element focusing, typically from 0.5m (1.5 ft) to infinity.
- Shutter: Horizontal cloth focal plane shutter.
- Shutter Speeds: Typically 1/5, 1/10, 1/25, 1/50, 1/100, 1/200, 1/400 second, plus B (Bulb).
- Viewfinder: Simple optical direct vision viewfinder.
- Dimensions: Approximately 105 x 45 x 30 mm (4.1 x 1.8 x 1.2 inches).
- Weight: Approximately 200g (7 oz).
Legacy and Collectibility
The Meopta Mikroma series earned a reputation for its robust construction and surprisingly good image quality for a subminiature camera. While it didn't achieve the same iconic status or widespread recognition as the Minox, it holds a significant place in the history of subminiature photography. Today, Mikroma cameras, especially the rare Stereomikroma, are popular among vintage camera collectors. The primary challenge for users today is the scarcity of original 16mm film cassettes and the specialized development process for the small negatives, though some enthusiasts adapt modern 16mm film or reload original cassettes to continue using these classic devices.