Kilfitt Robot Prototype (spring motor)
The Kilfitt Robot Prototype (spring motor) is a one-off or very-low-production experimental camera bearing the Kilfitt name, fitted with a spring-driven motor wind in the manner of Berning Robot cameras. Documented examples have surfaced only at specialist Leitz Photographica auctions, indicating it was never a series-production product.
Auction evidence is thin: only two UK saleroom hammer results are on record, at £2,700 in 2005 and £4,800 in 2012, giving a range of roughly £2,700–£4,800 at hammer level (wholesale, before commission). Because these are one-off prototype results rather than a regular market, the figures should be read as indicative only, and any value placed on the camera today in 2026 would depend heavily on provenance and competing bidders on the day.
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 2012
| Date | Price | Source | |
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| May 2012 | EUR 4,800 | Leitz Auction | |
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Auction: Leitz Auction 21 (Lot AI_21_13899) Title: Kilfitt Robot Prototype
Description:
Kilfitt clockwork motor camera, prototype without serial number, quite similar to Robot II. The camera was built by Kilfitt before the patent was sold to Robot, swinging finder-mask for 7.5cm. Only 5 of these prototypes were produced, with Biotar 2/4cm no.2442550, in very good and fully working condition, case Estimate: EUR 3,500 - EUR 4,000 |
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| Nov 2005 | EUR 2,700 | Leitz Auction | |
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Auction: Leitz Auction 8 (Lot AI_8_25540) Title: Kilfitt Robot Prototype
Description:
Kilfitt clockwork motor camera, prototype without serial number, quite similar to Robot II. The camera was built by Kilfitt before the patent was sold to Robot, swinging finder-mask for 7.5cm. Only 5 of these prototypes were produced, with matching Rodenstock Kilar 1.9/4cm no.200147, in very good and fully working condition Estimate: EUR 3,500 - EUR 4,000 |
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Frequently asked questions
What is a Kilfitt Robot Prototype (spring motor) worth today?
Based on the only two recorded UK auction sales, hammer prices have ranged from £2,700 to £4,800, but with so few data points the true market value is uncertain.
How much does a Kilfitt Robot Prototype sell for at auction?
Recorded hammer prices are £2,700 (2005) and £4,800 (2012) at specialist Leitz Photographica sales; there is no broader market price to quote.
Why is the price so variable?
It is a prototype with no series production, so each appearance is effectively a unique sale and the price depends on who is bidding rather than any established going rate.