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Voigtlander& Sohn Vitessa

The Voigtländer Vitessa is a 35mm folding rangefinder camera introduced in the early 1950s. It is recognisable for its twin "barn-door" front covers that fold out to reveal the lens, and the tall plunger on the top plate that simultaneously advances the film and cocks the shutter. When new, it was positioned as a compact precision camera for enthusiasts.

At recent UK auction, hammer prices for the Vitessa have sat in a fairly narrow band: the three most recent results from 2023 and 2024 fell between £50 and £80, with a median close to £56. Across the longer record the range is wider, from around £50 up to £250 for exceptional examples, and today the camera typically sells for less than it did in the late 1990s and early 2000s saleroom peak. Condition is the main price driver — a smooth-folding body with a clean Ultron lens and working plunger is worth noticeably more than a stiff or hazy example.

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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.

Date Price Source
Jul 2024 £50 Flints Auctions
Apr 2024 £80 Special Auction Services
Jan 2023 £56 Flints Auctions
Jun 2005 £60 Christie's
Mar 2004 £227 Christie's
May 2003 £94 Christie's
Mar 2003 £82 Christie's
Mar 2003 £105 Christie's
May 2002 £176 Christie's
Feb 2002 £211 Christie's
Jul 2001 £129 Christie's
Mar 2001 £82 Christie's
Jan 1999 £253 Christie's
Nov 1998 £207 Christie's
Jul 1998 £115 Christie's
Jan 1998 £184 Christie's

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