The first version of the famous Leica copy.
A limited pre-series of 10 FED cameras was released in 1933, regular production started in 1934.
The parts of the camera, that normally should be chromed are "galvanized" up to No. #5.800. This transitional finish is the result of the lack of chrome in the new factory.
The body of very early cameras often has a smooth black plastic cover instead of Vulcanite, occasionally cameras with different covers like smooth brown plastic, leather, or gray Vulcanite can be found.
Produced: 1934-1935
Engravings on camera top: „ФЭД Трудкоммуна им. Ф.Э. Дзержинского. Харьков“
Shutter: 1/20s, 1/30s, 1/40s, 1/60s, 1/100s, 1/200s, 1/500s + Z.
Serial number range: up to # 6.000 [According to Princelle].
known examples
camera SN / lens SN / cover material
#0058-----?----------smooth black cover, preseries - private collection, Europe
#142----no lens-----gray Vulcanite ----------------- private collection, Europe
#155----no lens-----smooth black cover ---------- seen on ebay
#173-------?---------smooth black cover ---------- Photo Arsenal
#389-------?---------totally black, matte cover --- private collection Russia
#489-------?---------smooth black cover ---------- DVD Technik
#575-------?---------Vulcanite ----------------------- according to Princelle
#608-------?---------smooth black cover ---------- ?
#793-------?---------leather ---------------------------- private collection
#911-------?---------smooth black cover ---------- Alexey Nikitin
#927-------?---------Vulcanite ----------------------- Alexey Nikitin
#968-------?---------smooth brown cover -------- private collection Russia
#1195-----?---------Vulcanite ----------------------- according to Allegro
#1233---1276/14--Vulcanite ----------------------- Christian G. (Niko80)
#1511-----?---------Vulcanite ----------------------- Aidas
#4643-----?---------Vulcanite ----------------------- Aidas
#5167-----?---------Vulcanite, partly chromed --- private collection Russia
#5440---6049/22--Vulcanite-------------------------Alexey Nikitin
#5682-----?---------Vulcanite ---------------------- Massimo Bertacchi
#5890-----?---------Vulcanite, chromed ----------- Juhani
#5899-----?---------Vulcanite, chromed ----------- U. Witte