Image: 10Art.CC
For those interested in instant photography (and even many who are not), the Polaroid SX-70 is an icon. And now, Chinese manufacturer 10Art.CC is aiming to introduce a modern take on the foldable instant camera. The Pocket Fold 66 promises compact instant photography reminiscent of the classic Polaroid camera.
For those who are unfamiliar, the Polaroid SX-70 is a folding, single-lens reflex instant camera made by Polaroid from 1972 to 1981. It folds down to a flat rectangle and pops up when it's time to take photos. The original model was manual focus only, though a later model featured sonar autofocus.
The Polaroid SX-70 folds down into a compact rectangle when not in use.
Photo: Abby Ferguson
In its announcement post, 10Art.CC says it was inspired by the SX-70 because of its portability and image quality. The company previously released an instant film back for Hasselblad cameras as well as a standalone camera module, the former addressing quality, the latter offering portability. However, neither device satisfied the company's quest for both in one package.
The Pocket Fold 66 aims to address both of the company's goals in a single camera, just as the SX-70 did. However, it makes it clear that this isn't a replica of the classic SX-70. "Please note, this isn't a replica; it's a re-creation," it said in the announcement. "We've only retained its folding structure, as it's the only way to achieve extreme compactness. I deeply admire Dr. Land's ingenuity. Respect!"
Details are limited, but 10Art.CC says that it "optimized all components and redesigned the entire optical system, electronic system, and mechanical transmission system."
Image: 10Art.CC
The company says the Pocket Fold 66 will be a foldable instant camera with an optical viewfinder, automatic metering and EV adjustment. It will feature a 110mm F5.6 lens, though the 35mm equivalent isn't provided. The lens will reportedly offer macro capability and the ability to focus from 15cm (5.9") to infinity. The camera is indeed quite compact, apparently folding down to 16 x 10 x 4.5cm (6.3 x 3.9 x 1.8"). For comparison, the original SX-70 measured 18.4 x 10.2 x 2.5cm (7.25 x 4 x 1").
10Art.CC also says that the camera will feature a built-in rechargeable lithium battery. It claims the camera will use "Polaroid square photo paper." That is a little surprising, since most non-Polaroid instant cameras – like the folding model TTartisan announced earlier this year – use Instax film, which is more affordable and easier to find.
There is currently no price or estimated availability date, but the single image in the announcement says 2025. We may be able to expect more details later this year, then.
