Bencini Comet 404-X

Photos by Eric Carlhan text by Sylvain Halgand. From the collection of Eric Carlhan. Last update 2023-12-07 par Sylvain Halgand.

Manufactured or assembled in Italy from (Circa) 1970 to (After) 1970.
Index of rarity in France: Infrequent (among non-specialized garage sales)
Inventory number: 10430

See the complete technical specifications

Chronology of cameras Bencini

Starting in the mid-1960s, Bencini followed the trend towards simplicity initiated by Kodak and its Instamatic 126 cameras. The first models, starting from 1966, were named Unimatic and were made with a serious approach. In 1968, Bencini introduced a new series of 126 format cameras, primarily made of plastic. For these cameras, the manufacturer revived the name Comet, which the brand had used since the late 1940s.

The Unimatic cameras were intended for both domestic and international markets, while the Comet models were more geared towards the Italian market.

The Comet series included several models, all capable of using the Flashcube and thus requiring a battery. Starting in the early 1970s, following Kodak's lead, Bencini adapted existing models for the use of the Magicube. Since the Magicube did not require a battery to initiate, the previous cameras were modified at a lower cost, retaining their name but with an added "X" to indicate Magicube compatibility. Later, new models were introduced, with some of them ending in "XL," signifying the presence of a winding lever (starting from 1979).

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The Comet 404-X is the version compatible with the Magicube of the Comet 404. In comparison to the Comet 200, these two models feature an improvement, as the aperture is adjustable. By rotating the lens ring, it is possible to select one of the four apertures, represented by weather symbols and the word "Daylight." On the same ring, there is a distance scale dedicated to flash usage.

The aperture consists of two blades, providing a square opening.

Interesting links or bibliography :

Sur mes-appareils-photos.fr, suggested by Eric Carlhan

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