Tanaka Kogaku Tanack IV-S
The Tanaka Kogaku Tanack IV-S is a LTM-mount film rangefinder camera, introduced in 1955. Leica camera price index →
Reference maintained by Thomas Boots
General
- Mount
- LTM
- Release Year
- 1955
- Type
- Film
- Model Number
- IV-S
- Serial Range
- Observed range 68575 to 78710, with at least one probable serial-stamping anomaly
Dimensions
Viewfinder & Shutter
- Framelines
- None, separate optical viewfinder and coupled rangefinder
- Shutter Speeds
- T, B, 1 s, 1/2 s, 1/4 s, 1/8 s, 1/25 s, 1/50 s, 1/75 s, 1/100 s, 1/200 s and 1/500 s
- Shutter Type
- Cloth
Features
- Hot Shoe
- No
- Tripod Socket
- Yes
- Self Timer
- No
- Flash Sync
- 1/25 s X-sync, with FP synchronization for suitable flashbulbs
Tanack IV-S
The Tanack IV-S is Tanaka Kogaku's best-known LTM rangefinder and the highest-production model in the Tanack series. Introduced in February 1955, it refined the IIIS with strap lugs, a film-plane indicator and revised cosmetics while retaining the hinged back [1][2].
The cloth focal-plane shutter provides T, B and speeds to 1/500 second. Separate FP and X terminals are fitted, with electronic flash synchronized at 1/25 second. The manual specifies a 38 mm rangefinder base and 1.5x rangefinder eyepiece [2].
History
Development and Launch
The IV-S followed only months after the IIIS and became Tanaka Kogaku's principal camera from 1955 through 1958. It was sold with several Tanar 50 mm lenses and briefly advertised with a Hexar 50 mm f/3.5 [1][3].
Production Evolution
Observed serials extend from 68575 to 78710, leading to an estimate of about 10,000 bodies rather than a factory-confirmed total. Later cameras increasingly carry Made in Japan export markings, but replacement back plates can disrupt the expected sequence [1].
Special Variants
Lens packages, export markings and later black repaints do not create separate editions. No verified factory black special edition is required, so the camera remains a Standard model [1].
Collector Notes
Check the engraved IV-S name, strap lugs, rectangular finder housing, dual synchronization terminals and opening back. The top shutter dial rotates during exposure and should only be set after the shutter is cocked [2][4].
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