Agfa's Optima rangefinder compact — the Optima 1535, coupled rangefinder, auto exposure, 35mm, 1980.
The Agfa Optima 1535 is a fixed-lens 35mm compact from around 1980, the rangefinder-equipped model in Agfa's Optima electronic series made in Germany. It sat above the simpler Optima models in the line, adding a coupled rangefinder for accurate focusing alongside the series' large, bright viewfinder.
It is a 35mm viewfinder compact with a fixed focal-length lens and a coupled rangefinder for focusing, rather than a zoom or autofocus. Exposure is electronically controlled and automatic with a built-in meter, so a battery is required for the meter and shutter. The large finder shows exposure information, and film speed is set manually. Flash is supported via the camera's flash provision.
The Optima 1535 suits users who want a compact classic camera with precise rangefinder focusing for street, travel and general photography. Its strengths are the coupled rangefinder, bright viewfinder and German build; its limits are automatic-only exposure dependent on a working battery, a single fixed focal length, and reliance on original or substitute battery types.
When buying used, check the rangefinder patch for contrast and correct vertical and horizontal alignment, as a faded or misaligned patch makes focusing unreliable. Confirm the electronic shutter fires and the meter responds, inspect the lens and finder for haze or fungus, and verify the film-door light seals. Look for battery-compartment corrosion and check the film advance and rewind feel smooth.