Viteflex (Alpa) Prototype

This is one of 20-30 Alpa prototypes ever produced. These were named either VITEFLEX or TELEFLEX but neither were selected for the final serial production. The first Alpa prototypes carry the serial number range 10.000 (A series) and some were also made in the 11.000 series (B series). The chassis internal has the accurate modification for the interchangeable film spool with opening and closing mechanism operated from the top under the winding knob. A feature only the prototypes carry. Also the waist-level finder is of a different early construction. Alpa serial number factory records are pretty amazing. Unfortunately of the Prototypes and the B series no records have been made at Alpa. They started recording (AND ALSO THE MODIFICATIONS!!) from serial 120.000 (C series, which should have been the 12.000 series !) Known (to us) existing prototypes are serial numbers 10004, 10005, 10006, 10011, 11004, 11021, 11463 (this one). There have been replicas made later from parts (serial numbers 10021-10047) for museums and collectors as well so be well aware ! The lens is a matching early SOM BERTHIOT 2.8/50mm no.352726 in collapsible lens mount. Known same version lenses on prototypes are serial numbers 352720 (on 11004 - just 6 serial numbers away!), 357365, 357513, 390662. The camera is in working order with matching serial number in back door (always very important!)