Exakta Mikrobie

The Mikroby by Exakta stands as an early example of the company's experimentation with 35mm photography, produced during a crucial transitional period from 1916 to 1934. This camera represents one of Exakta's initial forays into the smaller format that would eventually revolutionize photography. While specific technical details remain limited in historical records, the Mikroby's extended production run suggests it found a niche among photographers beginning to appreciate the portability advantages of 35mm film compared to the larger formats dominating the era. The camera likely featured a straightforward design typical of early 35mm models, with a compact body and basic mechanical controls that prioritized functionality over complexity. Exakta's later prominence in the development of single-lens reflex cameras gives the Mikroby particular significance as a foundational piece in the company's evolution and the broader 35mm movement.

During its manufacturing span, the Mikroby operated in an environment where photography was transitioning from glass plates and medium formats toward the smaller 35mm film that had proven successful in motion picture applications. The camera's existence during this formative period makes it historically noteworthy as part of the experimental phase that would eventually lead to the 35mm still cameras that became standard for professional and amateur photographers alike. Despite its importance in this evolutionary process, the Mikroby remained a specialized product rather than a mainstream instrument, serving the needs of a limited segment of photographers who recognized the potential of the smaller format years before it achieved widespread popularity.