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 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: July 2025
| Date | Price | Source | |
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| Jul 2025 | £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 | 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 | 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.