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O.P.L.-Foca Foca Universel

The Foca Universel is a 35mm rangefinder camera produced in France by O.P.L.-FOCA, introduced in the early 1950s. It was positioned as a higher-tier domestic alternative to imported German rangefinders, featuring interchangeable lenses on a proprietary bayonet mount.

At recent UK auction, hammer prices for the Foca Universel have sat in a narrow band of roughly £110–£120, with a median close to £114 based on the limited records available. As of today these saleroom results reflect wholesale levels for modest-condition examples; cleaner bodies with matched lenses tend to sell for more, while the small sample size means individual results can swing the value either way.

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 2006

Date Price Source
Jul 2006 £108 Christie's
Feb 2004 £119 Christie's

Frequently asked questions

What is a Foca Universel worth today?

Recent UK auction hammer results place the value at roughly £110–£120, though the limited data means a clean, complete example could sell for more.

How much does a Foca Universel sell for at auction?

The two tracked UK auction sales settled at £108 and £119, giving a median price of about £114 at saleroom level before commission.

Is the Foca Universel a good collector's camera?

It appeals to collectors of post-war French precision optics, but buyers should factor in the difficulty of servicing and the scarcity of matched-mount lenses when assessing value.