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Kamera Werkstatten Praktiflex (1939-1946, black body, black leather)

The Praktiflex is a 35mm single-lens reflex camera made by Kamera Werkstätten in Dresden, introduced in 1939 and produced through the wartime and early post-war period to 1946. The black body with black leather covering represents the early pre-war and wartime production configuration of this waist-level-finder SLR.

At recent UK auction, hammer prices for the 1939–1946 black-body Praktiflex have ranged from about £200 to £540, with a median around £200 based on the three recorded saleroom results. Prices today in 2026 remain highly condition-sensitive: the higher end reflects a clean, fully-working example, while tired bodies with sticky shutters tend to sell for less at saleroom level.

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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: May 2006

Date Price Source
May 2006 EUR 200 Leitz Auction
Nov 2005 EUR 200 Leitz Auction
May 2003 EUR 537 Leitz Auction

Frequently asked questions

What is a Kamera Werkstätten Praktiflex (1939–1946, black body) worth today?

Based on UK auction hammer results, a black-body Praktiflex from this period is worth roughly £200 to £540 depending on cosmetic and mechanical condition, with a median value near £200.

How much does a Praktiflex sell for at UK auction?

Recorded saleroom prices range from about £200 for typical working examples up to around £540 for a notably clean one, so the price you should expect to pay sits within that band.

What affects the value of a black-leather Praktiflex?

Shutter health, mirror operation and the condition of the original black leather covering are the main value drivers; a camera that needs a service will sell for noticeably less than one that has already been overhauled.

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