Reise Alta 35
The Reise Alta 35 is a LTM-mount film rangefinder camera, introduced in 1957. Leica camera price index →
Reference maintained by Thomas Boots
General
- Mount
- LTM
- Release Year
- 1957
- Type
- Film
- Model Number
- Alta 35
- Serial Range
- Observed range 70029 to 700626, not a factory-confirmed allocation
Dimensions
Viewfinder & Shutter
- Framelines
- None, separate optical viewfinder and coupled rangefinder
- Shutter Speeds
- T, B and 1 s to 1/500 s
- Shutter Type
- Cloth
Features
- Hot Shoe
- No
- Tripod Socket
- Yes
- Self Timer
- No
- Flash Sync
- Unknown, separate X and M/FP synchronization contacts
Alta 35
The Alta 35 is a low-production Japanese LTM rangefinder built by Reise Camera and marketed through Misuzu Kogaku Kogyo. Introduced in September 1957, it continued the Leica III-style construction of the late Chiyotax IIIF after the earlier distribution arrangement ended [1][2].
The body uses separate viewing and coupled rangefinder windows, a cloth focal-plane shutter with fast and slow speed dials, and 39 mm Leica screw mount. Alta outfits are most often documented with Altanon 50 mm lenses, but the camera profile remains independent of the supplied lens [1].
History
Development and Launch
Reise had previously manufactured Chiyoca and Chiyotax cameras for Chiyoda Shokai. Misuzu Kogaku subsequently marketed the revised body as the Alta 35, apparently beginning in September 1957 [1][2].
Production Evolution
Observed body serials run from 70029 to 700626. This has led to an estimate of roughly 600 bodies, but it is an observed collector range rather than a surviving factory allocation record [2]. Early shutter dials and the form of the rewind-knob film reminder show minor differences.
Special Variants
Different Altanon lens finishes and packages are outfit variations, not separate Alta 35 editions. The camera remains a Standard model.
Collector Notes
Confirm the Alta engraving, dual X and M/FP sync contacts and a serial in the documented 70xxx family. Similar Chiyotax IIIF bodies and later re-engravings make originality of the top plate, lens and finish important [2].
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