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SAMPLES
SUMMARY
The Markfinder was the first Argus to feature the more traditional "camera-like" body style that would be used by the C4 and C44/R. With its metal body, chrome and black leatherette the Markfinder is a sharp looking little camera. The lens is the same 50mm f/3.5 Cintar featured on the C3 but with a new chrome casing. It is actually removable using a simple screw mount, which allowed the lens to be used with an Argus enlarger. No additional lenses were ever made for the Markfinder.
What set the Model 21 (Markfinder) apart from the other "Argi" at the time was the film advance dial that automatically cocked the shutter, and a unique viewfinder system that provided markings to determine the frame for the image. Instead of a rangefinder which would be utilized on its siblings the C4 and C44, the Markfinder superimposed guidelines for easier composition, hence the name. The photographer would still have to estimate subject distance and adjust the lens accordingly. A glaring omission is that of a depth-of-field scale. As with most Argus cameras the shutter speeds are limited. The Model 21 Markfinder features 1/10 - 1/200 sec. and Bulb for long exposures. During the final production run, some cameras in this line featured 1/300 of sec as its fastest speed. The flash shoe has two settings. This early model has the metal film guide on the take up reel to improve film flatness and prevent sprocket hole tearing on the film. Later models had a slightly improved advance mechanism and didn't require this guide. Early models also had the shutter speeds etched into the dial versus silk screened like the C4 and C44, which can rub off over time.
CLEANING AND REPAIR
Like the C4 and C44/R, the Model 21 is fairly easy to clean and restore. The three element Cintar unscrews from the body counter-clockwise. Once the lens is off, remove the back (on/off twist control under the camera) and if necessary flood the shutter and diaphragm with Rosonal lighter fluid. Fire the shutter several times at various speeds to free up the mechanism if sticky. The lens itself can be taken apart if the inside of the elements are hazy or covered in fungus. Unscrew the front lens ring counter-clock wise to access the front element. Once the ring is out the glass can be removed, remember that the flat side faces the camera. Behind the front element is another retaining ring and the middle element. Use Windex if no fungus of haze is present, or utilize a 50/50 solution of Ammonia and Hydrogen Peroxide to take care of haze and fungus. Windex will easily clean the viewfinder windows as well. Hopefully this won't need cleaning but it can be removed if necessary. The leatherette on the camera body can be cleaned using a typical leather cleaner, and the body shines up well with a soft toothbrush and some metal polish. I prefer M.A.A.S. The advance and rewind knobs can be removed by unscrewing the flathead screw on top of each knob.
EBAY SUGGESTIONS
The Argus 21 Markfinder is a fairly uncommon camera on EBay. When an auction does appear expect to pay around 20-40 dollars for this simple camera. In regard to functionality, the C-4 or C-44 are better cameras, with the C-44 including interchangeable lenses. The 21 Markfinder is really for Argus collectors, as other models are more practical shooters. The C3 has essentially the same lens as the Markfinder but includes a rangefinder. There isn’t much to test on the Markfinder, validate from the seller that the shutter fires, and the speeds seem correct. The aperture dial should turn smoothly and validate the viewfinder and lens are clean. Shipping should be around 6-10 dollars depending on destination and method used.
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Argus Links
Argus Camera Company
Argoflex.com
Marcy's Argus 21 Review
Classic Camera Ring
Make a flash for your Argus
Other Argus Cameras
Argus Collectors Group
Argus Camera Photo Exhibition
