Ernemann Film K (6x6)
The Ernemann Film K is a roll-film folding camera taking 6x6 cm exposures, made by the Dresden manufacturer Ernemann in the early twentieth century before the firm was absorbed into Zeiss Ikon in 1926. It sits in the mid-tier folding-camera category of its era, aimed at amateur photographers wanting a pocketable roll-film instrument.
Auction evidence for this model is thin: the two recorded UK saleroom results, both from 2003, were £125 and £138 at the hammer, giving a narrow range and a midpoint around £130. Those figures reflect wholesale auction levels rather than dealer retail, and as of today buyers should expect condition — bellows integrity, shutter function, and lens clarity — to drive what a Film K is worth far more than headline averages suggest.
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.
| Date | Price | Source | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 2006 | EUR 160 | Leitz Auction | |
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Auction: Leitz Auction 10 (Lot AI_10_15558) Title: Ernemann Film K
Description:
6x6cm, first horizontal version in original condition Estimate: EUR 200 - EUR 300 |
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| Nov 2003 | EUR 138 | Leitz Auction | |
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Auction: Leitz Auction 4 (Lot AI_4_22596) Title: Ernemann Film-K, 6x6cm
Description:
Achromat 12/12 cm. o. Nr. Seltene Version der Film-K im quadratischem Format in Super-Erhaltung ! Estimate: EUR 1,916 - EUR 19 |
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| May 2003 | EUR 125 | Leitz Auction | |
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Auction: Leitz Auction 2-3 (Lot AI_2_21668) Title: Ernemann Film K
Description:
6x6cm, second version of the simple box camera Film-K in top condition with original maker's box (ref: “Göllner” page 179, but round shutter housing) Estimate: EUR 1,920 - EUR 895,199 |
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Frequently asked questions
What is an Ernemann Film K (6x6) worth today?
The two UK auction hammer results on file are £125 and £138, so a working example in honest cosmetic condition has historically sold for around £130, with price sensitive to bellows and shutter condition.
How much does an Ernemann Film K sell for at auction?
On the limited evidence available it sells for roughly £120–£140 at the hammer, before any buyer's premium is added.
Is the Ernemann Film K a good user camera?
It can be, provided the bellows are light-tight and the shutter runs at usable speeds; 120 roll film for the 6x6 format is still widely available, but servicing relies on independent repairers.