What is the value of a Polaroid Spectra camera with lens?

Answer 1

The Polaroid Spectra cameras were manufactured from 1987 until 2000, and were considered an advanced edition of the 600 line. They originally retailed for about $249.00, and were aimed at the professional market.

The camera shipped with a 125 mm three-element plastic "Quintic" f/10 lens, although some models apparently have a sharper ground glass lens. The picture quality was superior to earlier Polaroid models. Other new features included red-eye reduction, wider photo format, and the ability to use either auto- or manual focus.

Despite the many benefits of the Spectra, they are not in demand with collectors. One reason may be that the film has been discontinued, and is scare, expensive and expired. A small boutique company, Impossible Project, makes a limited amount of fresh Spectra film, but it's also expensive.

The early Spectras sell for almost nothing -- sometimes less than $1.00, usually no more than $10. The more recent (black) Spectra II commands a slightly higher price, between $15.00 and $50.00, depending on condition.

[November 2010]

Answer 2

Because the SX-70 film can be manipulated for interesting effects, this camera is still considered desirable and is actively purchased for studio use. The value ranges anywhere from $50-$500, depending on the specific model, condition, and accessories.

More Information

The original SX-70 was manufactured from 1972-1977; there are other SX-70 models (Alpha 1, Alpha 1 Executive, Alpha 1 Model 2, Executive, Model 2, Model 3, Sonar OneStep, etc.) that were manufactured and marketed later, and are not generally included in the answer to this question.

Unlike earlier rangefinder cameras, the SX-70 was a single-lens reflex (SLR). It had a sturdy, chrome-plated body covered in genuine leather, and originally sold for $180.00

You can get a general idea of the age by looking at the type of focusing screen used (assuming it's original). The 1972-73 models used plain ground glass without a scale; the next production run had a split rangefinder circle without a scale (you could tell an image was in focus if the two halves in the focusing screen aligned properly); later models added the scale to the split screen focus.

SX-70 film is still available at high prices and in limited supply. You can purchase current (unexpired) stock from the Impossible Project (see links).

[December 2010]

Answer 3

According to company records, Polaroid didn't make a J85 model camera. The two closest matches are the J66 and the Colourpack 85. The latter camera was the same as the Colorpack 82, but branded for the European market.

Also Polaroid made 185 camera, which some could read as J85.