"Kristall" is intermediate model between "Zenit-3" and "Zenit-3M". This type of camera was manufactured in 1961 and 1962 only. My camera was manufactured in 1962.
This camera has gray hammertone cast-metal top with polished art-deco ribs. It has hinged rear cover and several other minor changes in comparison with Zenit-3. For example, nylon mirror straps were replaced by more reliable metal lever. The body is covered with a black nylon cloth. The top deck returns to two levels. There are two variations of this camera - one has 5 raised stripes on the prism and the other does not (my camera has). The rapid advance lever is on the lower area to the extreme left and has the shutter release in the center. Just to the left on the upper deck is a chromed button for film rewind. The flash synchronization dial only has electronic and bulb symbols. The serial number is engraved below the KMZ symbol on the upper left corner of the back. The back hinges on the right and the film wind spool is fixed. This camera is rare and very rare in excellent condition. Such cameras appear on eBay only 1 per month. So, don't miss your chance!
Note on Flash Synchronization: The lever under the shutter speed dial is used to set the flash synchronization delay. These cameras use a delay of "0" with electronic flash at 1/30. However, you must immediately wind the camera to open the contacts or the flash will fire continuously. Flash bulbs will sync at a delay of "20". Why all of the other sync values were provided is unknown.
Film size: 35 mm
Image size: 24x36 mm
Body material: Metal;
Body s/n: 62001215;
Lens s/n: 6158942.
Features
Lens: Industar-50, coated, focal length - 50 mm, relative aperture - f/3.5;
Lens Mount: 39x1 mm;
Filter Size: n/a;
Focus Range: 0,65 m to inf.;
Shutter Type: Horizontal curtains;
Aperture Sizes: 3.5, 4, 5.6, 8, 11, 16 (smooth, no clicks);
Shutter Speeds: 1/30, 1/60, 1/125, 1/250, 1/500, B;
Synchronizer: regulated for two types of flashes;
Picture counter;
Film type reminder.
