Sanwa Mycro IIIA


The Mycro series of cameras by Sanwa can be quite confusing.  There were several models with several names.  Some of the models were the same -- but with different names and some of the models were different -- with the same name!  Then there was the IIIA.  It would lead one to conclude that there was a IIIB, like with the Steky cameras.  But there wasn't.  But despite the inability of Sanwa to adequately name cameras, they were able to produce decent cameras.  The IIIA appeared in 1950.  The lens and shutter are the same as the postwar model II, but with a slightly different body style and an attractive, chromed face plate.  The viewfinder was made a little bit smaller than in the earlier versions and it is even more difficult to use than the original.  But the camera's features help make up for this deficiency.  This is one of the few Hit-type cameras with adjustable shutter speeds and apertures.  Speeds run from 1/25 - 1/100, plus B.  Apertures run from f4.5 - 11.  So the camera is actually quite flexible under a wide variety of situations and with a wide variety of films.  As you might expect, the images have that true "Hit feel".  The images have very fuzzy edges at f4.5, but stopping down helps.  Think of the Mycro IIIA as a miniature Diana camera.  No wonder the Mycro IIIA is sought after -- especially with its tele lens adapter and cable release socket.  Even filters were available.  Does this make it a Hit system camera?

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