Before You Toss That Old Camera…
Old cameras aren’t just nostalgic relics—they can also be serious money-makers. With the resurgence of film photography and a growing community of collectors, certain vintage pieces are fetching jaw-dropping prices. Here are 20 cameras that regularly sell for big bucks.
Rolleiflex 2.8F
This beloved twin-lens reflex camera delivers razor-sharp images and iconic styling. Depending on condition, it can fetch anywhere from about $300 to well over $2,600. Collectors love it for its durability and smooth focusing system, while portrait photographers value the incredible medium-format negatives it produces. The 2.8F is also associated with some of the most famous street photographers of the 20th century, adding to its prestige.
A review of the LEGENDARY Rolleiflex 2.8F, theFINDlab
Leica M3
A legendary 35mm rangefinder from 1954, the Leica M3 was one of the first truly modern cameras of its type. On today’s market, it can sell anywhere between $560 and $4,000. Its precise build quality and iconic Leica optics make it a favorite among collectors and working film photographers alike. The M3 also represents the beginning of Leica’s long dominance in the rangefinder market, which still influences camera design today.
Ricoh Diacord G
The Ricoh Diacord G, introduced in 1958, is a twin-lens reflex that earned praise for its crisp reflex finder and solid mechanics. While it often sells for around $100–$200, the value lies in its reputation as a hidden gem. The camera offers professional-quality images for a fraction of what higher-profile TLRs cost, making it a sleeper hit among collectors. For photographers, it’s also a practical way to experiment with medium-format film without breaking the bank.
Dfilm!!! La Ricoh Diacord G. TLR . Instalando el film 120., Photo illusion
Kodak Retina II
Dating back to the late 1940s, the Kodak Retina II is a compact 35mm camera with a collapsible lens. Some listings reach as high as $1,800, especially for rare editions in pristine condition. Known for sharp image quality, it was an early step in making high-end optics more accessible to everyday photographers. Today, it’s admired as a design piece as much as a functional tool, with its German engineering giving it serious collector appeal.
Thrift Treasures: Kodak Retina II (Type 011), Retro Tech Restorations
Canon AE-1
The Canon AE-1 revolutionized photography in the late 70s as the first SLR with a microprocessor and automatic exposure mode. In unused condition, collectors are willing to pay around $900. The camera also sold in massive numbers, making it one of the most influential cameras ever produced. Its role in democratizing advanced features for casual shooters is what cements its reputation today.
Canon AE-1 Review - The perfect beginner 35mm film camera, Tony Wodarck
Nikon F
The Nikon F was introduced in 1959 and quickly became the standard for professional photographers. Vintage bodies can fetch up to $750, especially if they’re in working order with accessories. Its modular design allowed photographers to swap out prisms, backs, and other parts, which was groundbreaking at the time. The Nikon F became the workhorse for photojournalists covering everything from war zones to sports arenas.
My experience with Nikon F, frozen f8
Zeiss Ikon Contax II
Produced in the late 1930s, the Zeiss Ikon Contax II is one of the most innovative rangefinders of its era. Today, these cameras typically sell for around $200, though rarer examples can go higher. Known for its solid build and smooth focusing system, the Contax II was a serious competitor to Leica in its day. Collectors value it both for its engineering and its role in advancing camera technology before World War II.
Zeiss-Ikon Contax II / Kiev rangefinder – shoot & review!, tomscameras
Yashica Mat-124G
This dependable medium-format twin-lens reflex was produced in the 1970s and remains a fan favorite. In good condition, it sells for about $250, making it one of the most affordable entries into medium format. Its reputation for sharp Yashinon lenses and easy handling make it especially popular with students learning film photography. Collectors also appreciate that it was one of the last quality TLRs produced before digital cameras began to dominate.
Yashica Mat-124G Review - One of my favourite medium format cameras, Kyle McDougall
Polaroid SX-70
Released in 1972, the Polaroid SX-70 was the first instant SLR camera ever made. Some models start at $40, while rarer variants can top $2,000. Its folding design and ability to deliver instant, tangible photos made it a cultural phenomenon in the 70s. Today, it’s admired both by instant film enthusiasts and by design collectors who appreciate its sleek, futuristic look.
HOW TO SHOOT WITH A POLAROID SX-70, Dan Bullman Photography
Hasselblad 500C/M
A modular medium-format camera introduced in 1957, the Hasselblad 500C/M is a legend in the photography world. Pre-owned units often list above $7,000, especially with Carl Zeiss lenses. This was the system chosen by NASA for space missions, including the Apollo moon landings. Its precision, modularity, and build quality make it one of the most iconic cameras of all time.
The BEST Film Camera Ever Made? (Hasselblad 500 C/M), Stopmo
Pentax K1000
Launched in 1976, the Pentax K1000 is beloved for its simplicity and ruggedness. Bundled with lenses, it can command prices over $900. Known as the “student’s camera,” it became the go-to for generations of photography students thanks to its no-frills operation. Today, it’s just as appreciated by hobbyists who want a reliable, affordable way into film photography.
Argus C3
Nicknamed “the brick,” this camera was first sold in 1939 and remained in production for decades. It can bring in around $40, with rare variants selling for more. Its durability and accessibility made it one of the most widely used cameras in the United States. While not glamorous, it’s a true piece of photographic history and a nostalgic collectible for many.
Through The Lens: All About The Argus C3, TPD Productions
Graflex Speed Graphic
The Graflex Speed Graphic was a large-format press camera used extensively from the 1910s through the 40s. It often sells for $500 or more today. This was the camera of choice for press photographers, immortalized in old newspaper photos of reporters carrying them on the job. Collectors value it for its historic importance, and some photographers still use it for large-format work today.
Through The Lens: All About The Graflex Speed Graphic, TPD Productions
Voigtländer Bessa R
The Voigtländer Bessa R launched in 2000, offering a modern take on the classic rangefinder design. Good condition specimens often trade for over $1,000. With its Leica screw mount, it allowed photographers to use vintage Leica lenses at a fraction of the cost of an actual Leica body. It’s now a favorite among collectors who appreciate both usability and affordability.
A Thorough Look At The Voigtlander Bessa R - An Affordable Alternative To The Leica M6, Oh Aces
Mamiya 7II
Released in 1999, the Mamiya 7II is one of the most respected medium-format rangefinders ever made. Typically, it sells around $3,400, with boxed versions reaching nearly $10,000. Its lightweight body and exceptional lens quality make it a favorite for landscape photographers. The fact that it’s discontinued only drives demand higher among collectors and working film shooters.
The Mamiya 7ii - The best film photography camera?, Jake Chamseddine
Leica MP
The Leica MP is a fully mechanical rangefinder released in 2003, built with the same philosophy as Leica’s earliest models. Prices hover around $5,000, though mint, boxed examples can reach $9,000. It’s prized for its durability and purist design, appealing to collectors and professional photographers who want a no-compromise tool. Its low production numbers add to its value.
Leica M6
Produced between 1984 and 1998, the Leica M6 is one of the brand’s most popular cameras. Pristine models go for around $3,200, with boxed versions fetching up to $9,000. Its built-in light meter made it a more practical choice than earlier Leicas, without sacrificing the legendary build quality. Today, it’s a grail camera for both collectors and working photographers.
Leica M2
Made from 1957 to 1968, the Leica M2 was designed as a more affordable alternative to the M3. Functional models often sell for about $1,800, while rare, repainted editions have reached $7,400. It offered a wider viewfinder that appealed to photojournalists and street photographers. Collectors love its minimalist design and strong connection to Leica’s golden age.
Thomas Berwing, Wikimedia Commons
Rolleiflex 2.8GX
This late-edition twin-lens reflex camera was produced from 1987 to 2000. Standard models sell for about $3,800, while special editions can reach $7,200. It combined Rollei’s classic design with modern features like improved metering. Collectors consider it the pinnacle of Rolleiflex production before the company faded from prominence.
Flashback: Rolleiflex 2.8GX, Hoffmann-Photography
Hasselblad XPan
Released in 1998, the Hasselblad XPan was a unique 35mm camera that could shoot panoramic images without cropping. Today, it sells for around $4,000, with boxed kits reaching $6,600. Its wide format is still unmatched, making it highly desirable for both photographers and collectors. The limited production run adds to its mystique.
Hasselblad Xpan - 10 Things you Need to Know, The Photography Toolkit: Dave Caleb
Contax 645
This medium-format SLR from the 1990s came equipped with Carl Zeiss lenses, making it a dream setup for many. Typically valued around $3,500, mint kits can reach $5,500. It was especially popular with portrait and wedding photographers for its sharp rendering and autofocus system. With film photography’s resurgence, demand for this system has skyrocketed.
Camera Geekery: Contax 645, Japan Camera Hunter
Hasselblad 501CM
Produced in the late 1990s, the Hasselblad 501CM is part of the brand’s legendary V-system. Bodies alone go for about $2,200, with full boxed kits topping $5,000. Known for its sturdiness and image quality, it’s often seen as a collector’s piece and a working camera at the same time. Its timeless design ensures it remains in demand.
Hasselblad 503CW
Released in 1996, the Hasselblad 503CW remains a beloved choice for professionals and collectors. Bodies typically sell for about $1,800, while complete kits can reach $4,600. Its compatibility with a wide range of Hasselblad accessories makes it particularly appealing. Even in the digital age, its modularity and craftsmanship give it enduring value.
Analog Film Hasselblad 503CW + CFV II 50c Hasselblad Digital Back, mathphotographer
Deardorff 8×10
The Deardorff 8×10 is a large-format wooden camera produced from 1923 to 1988. It usually sells for around $3,000, with pristine examples going over $4,400. Studio photographers adored its craftsmanship and ability to produce massive negatives with incredible detail. Today, it’s both a functional tool and a beautiful piece of photographic history.
Large Format Photography 8 x10 Deardorff camera, David Chalmers
Final Thoughts
There’s no shortage of vintage camera treasures out there. Whether you're cleaning out an attic or browsing at a flea market, keep an eye on condition, working parts, original boxes, and brand prestige. Leicas, Hasselblads, and rarer models genuinely command top dollar, while even some modest rangefinders like the Argus C3 bring in a tidy sum. You might already own a hidden gem begging to be uncovered!
Shooting Los Angeles on 8x10 Film - Paloma Dooley, Willem Verbeeck
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