Kiev Arax CM/MLU SE (Kiev 88CM)
The Arax CM/MLU SE is a modified version of the Kiev 88CM, a Ukrainian-built medium-format 6x6 single-lens reflex system camera using 120 roll film. The Arax workshop reworks the base Kiev 88CM body with mirror lock-up (MLU) and other refinements, positioning it as a corrected, more reliable alternative to the standard factory-built camera for medium-format film users.
Sales history for the Arax CM/MLU SE (Kiev 88CM) is very thin: a single UK auction-hammer result of £500 was recorded in March 2025, which sets the only current reference for what one sells for at saleroom level. With just one data point, this figure should be read as indicative rather than a reliable median, and today's value for a given example will depend heavily on the specific lens, finder and back included. Buyers researching what an Arax-modified Kiev 88CM is worth in 2026 should treat £500 as a starting reference and weigh condition and accessories carefully.
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 2025
| Date | Price | Source | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 2025 | EUR 1,700 | Leitz Auction | |
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Auction: Leitz Auction 47 (Lot A02342) Title: Arax-CM-MLU-SE plain blue
Description:
Rare medium format for 4.5x6 and 6x6 on 120 roll film, in mint condition and working order, modified version of the Kiev 88, here is a special edition with plain blue cover, focal plane mechanical shutter with Pentacon Six lens mount, together with Arsat C 2.8/80mm no.08516, good optics, with blue cover front lens cap, Kiev 4.5x6 blue cover magazine no.6235, 2x matching magazine Kiev 6x6 nos.0748 and 0752, 45° TTL metered Spot prism finder no.0631 with rubber eye piece, standard focusing hood. |
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| Mar 2025 | £500 | Flints Auctions | |
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Auction: Cameras & Scientific Instruments (Lot 243) Title: A Kiev ARAX Medium Format Camera Outfit
Description:
comprising the ARAX body, VG, shutter works, viewfinder clear, with an ARAX f/2.8 80mm lens, barrel VG, optics G, and a MIR-266 f/3.5 45mm lens, |
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Frequently asked questions
What is an Arax CM/MLU SE (Kiev 88CM) worth today?
Based on the limited UK auction data available, a recent hammer price of £500 in 2025 is the only firm reference, so value today is best treated as around that level pending further sales.
How much does a Kiev 88CM in Arax CM/MLU SE form sell for at auction?
One recorded UK auction sale reached £500 at hammer in March 2025; with only a single data point there is no meaningful price range to quote yet.
What affects the price of an Arax-modified Kiev 88CM?
Confirmed Arax service work, working mirror lock-up, a clean and light-tight film back, and the specific lens and finder included are the main factors influencing what a buyer will pay.