Exakta Ultrix Stereo No.1690

Produced by Exakta during the foundational years of 35mm photography (1925–1939), the Ultrix Stereo No.1690 represents a specialized attempt at stereoscopic imaging using standard 135 film. Utilizing a pair of synchronized lenses, it captured two slightly offset images on the same frame, intended for viewing through a stereoscope to create a three-dimensional effect. This positioned it within the niche market of amateur stereo photography enthusiasts during an era when 35mm film was still gaining widespread acceptance. Its construction was typical for mid-range European cameras of the period, likely employing metal bodies and precision mechanical components suitable for the medium format, though specific design details remain undocumented without further research.

The camera's significance lies in its reflection of Exakta's early diversification and the enduring appeal of stereo photography during the interwar period. While not a groundbreaking design like Exakta's own SLR innovations, it catered to a specific segment of photography culture, demonstrating the application of 135 film beyond conventional single-lens capture. Its relatively long production run suggests a stable, if niche, market presence among hobbyists interested in creating parallax-based images before the widespread adoption of color photography and other 3D technologies later in the century.