Berning Robot Recorder 36
The Robot Recorder 36 is a 35mm camera made by Otto Berning & Co. of Germany, part of the Robot family of spring-driven cameras. The Recorder variants were configured for extended film loads, positioning them for technical, surveillance and sequential-recording applications rather than general amateur photography.
At UK auction, hammer prices for the Robot Recorder 36 have ranged from around £120 to £345, with a median near £140 based on the handful of recorded sales. The most recent hammer result in 2025 was £120, suggesting that as of today the camera sells for a modest sum at saleroom level, though the thin sample size means any single clean example with accessories can move the price meaningfully.
Sales History
Prices shown are realised prices — auction results and completed eBay sales, never asking prices. Most saleroom figures are hammer prices, before commission; some houses publish a premium-inclusive figure, and we do not adjust for condition. Dealer and retail asking prices are typically higher. How this figure is calculated.
Prices updated: July 2025
| Date | Price | Value GBP | Source | |
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| Jul 2025 | £120 | £120 | 🇬🇧 Special Auction Services | |
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Auction: Photographica & Cameras Auction (Lot 627) Title: A Robot Recorder 36 Camera
Description:
A Robot Recorder 36 Camera, serial no 185534, shutter working, spring drive working, body G, with Schneider Kreuznach 38mm f/2.8 Xenar lens, barrel G, |
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| Sep 2003 | £141 | £120 | 🇬🇧 Christie's | |
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Auction: CAMERAS & PHOTO EQUIP, INCLUDING A EUROPEAN LEICA COLLECTION (Lot 300) Title: Robot Recorder 36 no. K152823d
Description:
Robot Recorder 36 no. K152823d Estimate: £250 - £300 |
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| Feb 1999 | £345 | £300 | 🇬🇧 Christie's | |
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Auction: Cameras and Optical Toys (Lot 241) Title: Robot Recorder 36 no. 197215
Description:
Robot Recorder 36 no. 197215 Estimate: £200 - £300 |
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Frequently asked questions
What is a Berning Robot Recorder 36 worth today?
Recent UK auction hammer prices sit around £120, with the broader recorded range running from roughly £120 to £345 depending on condition and completeness.
How much does a Robot Recorder 36 sell for at auction?
The median hammer price across the limited UK sales on file is about £140, so most examples change hands in the low-to-mid hundreds rather than at collector-premium levels.
What affects the value of a Robot Recorder 36?
A working spring motor, clean shutter, and the presence of original cassettes or accessories are the main factors that push the price toward the upper end of the observed range.