OPL Foca family list
OPL Foca PF1
OPL Foca PF2
OPL Foca Universel
OPL Focaflex

OPL Foca PF1

The second model in the Foca line was the PF1, which came after the PF2. I’m not sure about the rationale behind this convention, but looking for logic in camera makers’ naming systems is not for mortals. See more information about the brand in the OPL Foca family list page.

The PF1 line consisted of several models, with several minute sub-versions that are ignored on this page. The PF1 models were introduced in 1945 as a cheaper alternative to the PF2.

• Foca 1, or PF1, viewfinder, knob winder, with a fixed lens.
• Foca PF1B, 1946, same, with a retractable, removable thread mount lens.
• Foca PF1 PTT,1952, viewfinder for exchange recording, one speed, fixed lens, similar concept to the MDA.
• Foca Standard,1953, same as PF1B. Model made for Ribet-Desjardin, a now long-defunct electronics distributor.

The camera on my bench is the early model, not as bright and shiny as the PF2  I looked at earlier. It is still intact, no blemishes, but the finishes are dull. Not sure if it was made that way or a sign of age.  Some of the metal finishes are matte, and some are chromed, so the result disturbs the eye.

This model subscribes to the PF2 mode of no manual needed, which is a blessing compared to so many other models that feature mystery levers and dials.

• The body is similar to the PF2, but with one window for the viewfinder. The rear-viewer is well set to the left and is easy to use. The viewer is tiny, almost unusable. The same size was carried forward until the Universel and corrected with the Universel RC.
• The top has the manually adjusted frame counter, a trigger by it, a shutter speed selector that also cocks the shutter, a cold shoe and a pull-up rewind knob. The knobs are not as refined as on the PF2, but rather rough.
• Front has the rewind release lever, marked A for Avant – forwards, and R for Rebobinage – rewinding.
• The fixed lens assembly is boring, a flange mounted on the body. The distance on the focusing dial is marked in meters as well as markings for portrait, groupe, and paysage–landscape.
• The fully removable back is released via an easy-to-use turnbuckle. Inside are two film roll bays. Two polished film tracks and two guide sprockets. The PF2 folding leaf over the sprocket is omitted here. A custom takeoff pivot can be modified from a standard pivot.

The camera is what it is supposed to be, a cheaper alternative to the earlier PF2. It offers most of what PF2 offered and does not pretend to be more than what it is. For the collector, I would prefer the PF2 or 3, but this model may have a honorable place on the shelf. Recommended.

Note that the specs above are taken from the camera on my bench. Cameras under the same model could have different lenses or shutter assemblies, or other minor differences.