Zeiss Cocarette 6x9 cm 517 2

The Cocarette 6x9 cm 517 2 represents a practical and well-engineered offering from Zeiss, likely produced during the early to mid-20th century. As part of the Cocarette series, it was a folding plate camera, designed for portability while utilizing larger format 6x9 cm plates or, more commonly, 120 roll film in a dark slide adapter. Its design embodies the functional German camera aesthetic of its era: a simple folding body with bellows, featuring a fixed or limited lens/shutter combination, often a Zeiss Tessar or Triplet paired with a Compur or similar shutter. The "517 2" designation likely indicates a specific variant within the Cocarette range, distinguished by details such as lens specifications or shutter type, though its exact type and production year remain undocumented.

This camera catered to the serious amateur photographer seeking a reliable medium format camera without the complexity or cost of Zeiss's premium Ikonta or Contessa models. Its significance lies in Zeiss's consistent application of quality optical principles and robust mechanical construction to a more accessible segment of the market. The Cocarette 517 2 exemplifies the era's blend of portability and image quality offered by reputable manufacturers, providing a practical tool for photographers requiring larger negatives than 35mm afforded, though it lacks the groundbreaking innovations or iconic status of Zeiss's flagship products.