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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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