Rare Corfield Periflex 1 35mm camera, made in England by K.G. Corfield Ltd. in 1953. This was the first model in the Periflex series, designed to offer precision focusing via a manual periscope system that drops behind the lens—allowing through-the-lens focusing without a traditional rangefinder or reflex mirror.
Styled like a Leica Standard but with a removable back, the Periflex 1 uses a Leica-thread (M39) mount, making it compatible with a wide range of classic lenses. Its compact size, mechanical ingenuity, and British heritage make it a standout for collectors and analog enthusiasts alike.
Key Features:
Format: 35mm film (135)
Lens Mount: Leica M39 screw thread
Focusing: Manual periscope viewer (TTL focusing)
Shutter: Cloth focal-plane (B, 1/30–1/1000s)
Viewfinder: Optical finder with diopter adjustment
Frame Counter: Manual decrementing counter
Film Loading: Removable back (not baseplate)
Flash: PC sync socket
Origin: K.G. Corfield Ltd., Wolverhampton, England
Condition Notes:
Shutter: Fires across all speeds (not tested for accuracy)
Periscope: Mechanism intact and lowers manually
Viewfinder: Clear with working diopter adjustment
Cosmetics: Very good overall; minor wear consistent with age
Accessories: Camera body only (lens not included)
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Collector Notes:
The Periflex 1 was a bold innovation in British camera design, offering TTL focusing without the bulk of an SLR. Its plunging periscope system was unique to Corfield and later refined in subsequent models. The Periflex series became a cult favorite in the UK, and early examples like this are increasingly sought after. Sir Kenneth Corfield’s legacy lives on in these beautifully engineered cameras.
