Photographica Pages

An online guide to collectable cameras and related stuff

Alpa Alena/Alpa Reflex 5, 5a and 5b

The model 5 was fitted with a 45 degree prism finder. The body is constructed of die cast aluminum that has been painted gray. It has a cloth focal plane shutter with speeds 1-1000, with knob wind. It has an eyelevel viewfinder, but no rangefinder.

The name on the front of the finder was changed from Alpa Alena to Alpa Reflex in 1956.Total production for both versions is 2060 units. Serial numbers fall between 30005 and 39000. Produced from 1952 through 1959.

The Model 5a is the Model 5 with a self timer added. Only 138 were built between 1952-56. It was discontinued when the Model 6 was introduced. Serial numbers fall in the 33824-33903 range.

The Model 5b is the Model 5 with a lever wind. It was introduced in 1959, and lasted until 1989. Total production was 251 units in gray. There were 9 units finished in black between 1959 and 1966. Serial numbers in the 39801-41600 range.