Bentzin Primarflex
The Bentzin Primarflex is a German medium-format single-lens reflex camera using 6x6cm exposures on 120 roll film, introduced in the late 1930s by the Dresden maker Bentzin. It was positioned as a waist-level reflex aimed at advanced amateur and professional users at a time when SLR designs were still uncommon in the medium-format class.
With only two recorded UK auction hammer results — £111 in 2000 and £800 in 2005 — the Primarflex shows a wide spread that reflects how heavily condition, completeness and lens fitment drive what one sells for. As of 2026 the dataset is too thin to fix a reliable median, and any current value estimate at saleroom level should be treated as indicative rather than definitive. Clean, fully working examples with original optics tend to price toward the upper end of that range.
Sales History
Prices shown are UK auction hammer results — the wholesale level achieved in the saleroom. Neither buyer’s nor seller’s commission is included. Dealer and retail asking prices are typically higher.
Prices updated: November 2005
| Date | Price | Source | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 2005 | EUR 800 | Leitz Auction | |
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Auction: Leitz Auction 8 (Lot AI_8_25592) Title: Bentzin Primarflex
Description:
6x6cm SLR for rollfilm 120, forerunner of Hasselblad, very nice condition with Tessar 3.5/10.5cm no.2420908, very rare Tele-Tessar 6.3/32cm no.1570228 (condition B+), cap, ever-ready case for the camera Estimate: EUR 800 - EUR 1,000 |
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| Oct 2000 | £111 | Christie's | |
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Auction: LEICA, CAMERAS AND PHOTOGRAPHIC EQUIPMENT (Lot 11) Title: Primarflex no. 316528
Description:
Primarflex no. 316528 Estimate: £100 - £150 |
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Frequently asked questions
What is a Bentzin Primarflex worth today?
Recorded UK auction hammer prices range from around £110 to £800, so what an example is worth depends heavily on cosmetic condition, mechanical function and whether the original lens is fitted.
How much does a Bentzin Primarflex sell for at auction?
The two logged sales sit at £111 and £800 at hammer, indicating the model sells for a broad spread rather than a tight price band.
What drives the price of a Primarflex?
Working shutter speeds, a clear finder, smooth film transport and the presence of a correct, clean lens are the main factors that push the value toward the higher end of the observed range.