How Much Your Old Vintage Polaroid Camera is Worth and the 10 Most Val (2024)

If you have an old Polaroid camera lying around, then you might be wondering, “How much is an old Polaroid camera worth?” Vintage Polaroid camera value can range a lot depending on many factors, but in general, they range from as little as $10 to $20 and as high as $1000 or more.

Capture is not only committed to preserving your most precious memories andPolaroid picturesusing state-of-the-art equipment, but we also want to help people preserve their old antiques, cameras, and other equipment. That’s why we put together this guide to estimating the value of old Polaroid cameras.

Read on to learn factors influencing old Polaroid camera prices, 10 of the most valuable and rarest models, and a guide toretro Polaroid camera valuation.

Understanding the Factors Affecting Vintage Polaroid Camera Value

How Much Your Old Vintage Polaroid Camera is Worth and the 10 Most Val (1)

There are several factors that affect the value of vintage Polaroid camera models and many of them are the same factors that affect files of other old media like avintage camcorderincluding condition, age, and features. Other factors include model, rarity, historical significance, and current demand.

Model and Rarity

The model, and how rare it is, is one of the most important factors when it comes to the value of a Polaroid camera. Some are super easy to find while others are few and far between, thereby driving a higher price. This also goes for rare colors, like special editions or vivid80s colorsthat are harder to find like the party green and blue retro Polaroid automatic models.

This is also related to the specific age, features, and historical significance of a model. For example, a1980s camerathat offered a unique design might be worth more than a 1990s Polaroid that was incredibly common and basic or the newest model the Polaroid Now that was released after The Impossible Project rebranded the Polaroid company.

Condition and Working Order

The condition of your instant film camera is another major factor for the pricing of old Polaroid cameras. While you can get a Polaroid camera worth $10 quite easily, options that are in perfect condition with a clear viewfinder, zero damage, and like-new appearance are much harder to find. Therefore, they are more valuable.

For example, a Polaroid 600 series camera is very common due to it being one of themost popular in the 80s, but if you have one in mint condition with the original box, then the value will skyrocket.

Features and Accessories

The features of a vintage Polaroid camera can vary greatly from one to another. Some have built-in double exposure, autofocus, point-and-shoot design, exceptional viewfinder, high-quality lenses, and more. These types of features might be highly sought after by a buyer, thereby driving up the value.

Accessories like a strap, leather case,film rolls, detachable flash and more can also add to the value of an old Polaroid camera just like it would with anyold video cameraor film camera.

Demand and Popularity

Another one of the most important factors in antique camera market value is simply the demand. Are people looking for the camera right now and are they willing to pay? You can check Amazon and eBay to get a good idea of the demand for different Polaroid models as well as other old cameras.

Film Compatibility

There are several different types of Polaroid film including 600, Go, SX-70, and i-Type. Some people might prefer different film types, especially those that are easier to find. The same goes for other roll film or pack film for any type of instant camera or film camera because to use it you need to have the right type of film for the type of photography you want to use it for whether that’sfamily memories, wildlife pictures, historical images, or anything else.

Brand Reputation

While this guide is dedicated to one brand, Polaroid, it’s a good idea to mention that other brands like Kodak, Fuji, Nikon, and other popular brands offered instant film cameras to compete with Polaroids and might be worth a look if you’re looking to buy or sell any vintage camera.

Valuable Polaroid Camera Models

Now that you know the factors for determining the worth of vintage Polaroid cameras, let’s look at 10 of the most valuable and rarest Polaroid camera models. If you have one of these, then you might be able to get quite a bit for it because people love them for one reason or another.

Polaroid SX-70

How Much Your Old Vintage Polaroid Camera is Worth and the 10 Most Val (2)Image Source:https://filmphotography.eu/en/polaroid-sx-70/

The Polaroid SX-70 land camera from 1972 is a folding single-lens reflex model with an iconic design that lots of collectors adore. Some also have a brown leather and chrome body that makes them even more valuable and sought-after by enthusiasts. That’s why they’ve been sold for as much as $600 and commonly sell for around $300 in good condition.

The Polaroid OneStep Sonar Gold is even rarer and covered in 24 carat gold plates released in 1977 for Polaroid’s 40th anniversary. This special edition is incredibly valuable and is worth up to $2000 or more in some cases.

Polaroid 180 and 195 Land Cameras

How Much Your Old Vintage Polaroid Camera is Worth and the 10 Most Val (3)Image Source:https://cjo.info/polaroid/cameras/polaroid-195/

These vintage Polaroid land cameras are very popular because they are fully manual cameras with real lenses. This gives more photographic control that’s not popular with automatic land cameras. They also do better in low light situations and are often considered the best Polaroid camera ever, but they only take pack film which might impact value for some. They typically sell for around $150 to $200 but can be as high as $600+ in mint condition.

Polaroid 690 and 690 SLR

How Much Your Old Vintage Polaroid Camera is Worth and the 10 Most Val (4)Image Source:https://danfinnen.com/review/polaroid-680690-camera-review/

These Polaroids models are fully automatic but also offer a manual exposure compensation dial and the ability to turn the flash on and off. It’s collapsible, compact, and tons of fun to use, but what makes it so valuable is that it is a Japanese variant released in 1996, which means it’s somewhat rare in the West. Pricing ranges from around $300 to $1500 and more.

Polaroid Spectra/Image System

How Much Your Old Vintage Polaroid Camera is Worth and the 10 Most Val (5)Image Source:https://www.retrosexual.gr/product/polaroid-spectra-system/

Introduced in 1986, the Spectra system has its own corresponding film and offers more control including accurate metering, auto focus, and readout of how many feet or meters away from the viewfinder the subject is focused.

This makes it a great choice for closeup pictures and also makes it more valuable, though not as expensive as other options on our list typically costing somewhere around $50 to $200.

Polaroid 20x24

How Much Your Old Vintage Polaroid Camera is Worth and the 10 Most Val (6)Image Source:https://petapixel.com/2021/12/06/why-i-built-a-camera-to-bring-back-20x24-instant-photography/

This amazing large instant camera uses film plates measuring 20 inches by 24 inches, which means it takes pictures that are very large. It was produced between 1976 and 1978 and the unique qualities make it a collector’s item. In fact, some studios rent them out for an exorbitant price of $1750 per day and sell the film at $125 per exposure! If you have one of these, then it could be worth thousands of dollars.

Polaroid 600 SE

This versatile Polaroid camera is one of the most popular on the secondary market these days because it’s fun to use, offers interchangeable lenses, and simply looks cool. Plus, it can use roll film, pack film, large format, and even Instax Square back film. Typically, you can buy or sell them for $200 to $500+ depending on the condition.

Polaroid Model 100 Land Camera

How Much Your Old Vintage Polaroid Camera is Worth and the 10 Most Val (7)Image Source:https://www.joseph-saunders.com/blog/2015/6/1/polaroid-land-camera-100-review

This is the first model of Polaroid folding rangefinder camera and was released in 1963 around the same timewhen 8-tracks came out. The historical significance and antique aesthetic make it a fantastic option that sells for a lot of cash. While the film is somewhat hard to find, the camera is still fairly easy to find refurbished or in good condition for $150 to $300 with mint condition models going for $600-$800 or more.

Polaroid 120 Pathfinder

How Much Your Old Vintage Polaroid Camera is Worth and the 10 Most Val (8)Image Source:https://kamerastore.com/products/polaroid-pathfinder-120

This 1960 Polaroid model originally came with a leather suitcase and wink-light flash and if you have all that together then you might be able to sell it for hundreds of dollars. It’s old, but it still offers a lot of great features and a lens that makes it a great choice for both novices and experts. You can find models for around $100 or $150, but in the best condition they can sell for $500 or more.

Polaroid Model 95

How Much Your Old Vintage Polaroid Camera is Worth and the 10 Most Val (9)Image Source:https://vintagecameralab.com/polaroid-land-model-95a/

This model of old Polaroid camera was released the day after Thanksgiving in 1948 and was an instant hit. It’s both historically significant and offers a rotary leaf shutter and flip-up optical viewfinder that people love. Plus, it looks really cool and much different than more modern options. Refurbished options are typically around $700.

Polaroid 450 Land Cameras

How Much Your Old Vintage Polaroid Camera is Worth and the 10 Most Val (10)

Image Source: https://www.fstopcameras.com/polaroid-instax/polaroid-automatic-450-land-camera-fully-functional-instant-pack-film-camera

These later Polaroid land camera models are also highly cherished and use peel-apart pack film. They were produced from 1971 to 1974 and the folding, single-window rangefinder and viewfinder are highly sought-after by collectors in mint condition. This collectible Polaroid camera prices at around $100 to $500 or more.

Assessing the Worth of Your Vintage Polaroid Camera

If you have one of the models above or any other Polaroid model and want to know how much it’s worth, want to get an old Polaroid for someone’s50th birthday gift idea, or know the value of a specific Polaroid for any other reason, there are some ways you can assess the worth other than simply looking up, “How much is an old polaroid camera worth?”

First, try researching on eBay, Amazon, and other websites to see what the camera model is selling for. This can give you an idea of whether it’s trending upward or not. It can also help you determine how common they are and how often they sell. You can also check Polaroid and8mm film cameraforums to see what people are looking for and whether they are willing to pay for the model you want to sell.

Second, in addition to simply identifying the model that you have, you should look at any special colors and see if you have a special edition. If possible, try to find out the exact year that your specific camera was made. Some years might be more valuable than others even for the same model.

The next step, especially if you have a very valuable model or unique instant film camera, is to consult with experts and appraisers. You can look for an antique appraiser in your area or go on forums like DP Review, Photrio Forum, orCameraderie.org.

Finally, consider whether it’s best to sell it on eBay or online marketplaces or whether you might want to consider selling it at an online auction. Online antique auctions are perfect for the most cherished models and can help drive up the price so that you get the most for your Polaroid instant film camera.

Additional Tips for Maximizing Vintage Polaroid Camera Value

There are some things you can do to maximize your antique Polaroid camera appraisal and get as much as possible. First, make sure you clean the camera first to make sure it looks as great as possible. If it uses a battery, replace that as well.

If the camera has a worn-out part, you might want to consider getting it fixed or replaced to improve the selling potential. Also, if you can get it tested, that can help because untested Polaroid originals don’t sell for as much as those that are tested.

Accessories and packaging can add significant value to the camera as well. If you have the original box, straps, leather cases, or even rolls of film or film packs, letting prospective buyers know can help you increase the demand and value.

Finally, you can increase the value by documenting the history and provenance of the camera. A lot of collectors of everything fromSuper 8 filmto thefirst digital cameralike knowing where it came from, who used it, what images it captured, and any other history. This is especially important for certain models or if your Polaroid camera offers any historical significance.

Conclusion

How much is an old polaroid camera worth? As you can see, it really depends. While the most common models in average conditions sell for ten or twenty dollars, some models and special editions like the Polaroid One Step Sonar Gold-Plated edition or antique Model 100 can sell for thousands.

When selling old Polaroid cameras, make sure you take all the different factors into consideration including the condition, model, history, and more. That way you get as much as possible for it.

If you have old Polaroids or other photo types, then you might also want to considerconverting the photos to digital.Capture can help with high-quality satisfaction guaranteed services as well as the first-ever touchless photo album scanning service.Click here to learn more about our photo scanning services.

How Much Your Old Vintage Polaroid Camera is Worth and the 10 Most Val (2024)

FAQs

How Much Your Old Vintage Polaroid Camera is Worth and the 10 Most Val? ›

If you have an old Polaroid camera lying around, then you might be wondering, “How much is an old Polaroid camera worth?” Vintage Polaroid camera value can range a lot depending on many factors, but in general, they range from as little as $10 to $20 and as high as $1000 or more.

How to sell a vintage Polaroid camera? ›

When it comes to selling your Polaroid camera, we recommend using a trusted online sales platform, such as eBay, Depop or Etsy. You can also reach out to Retrospekt, a well known Polaroid camera buyer, at: service@retrospekt.com.

What old cameras are worth the most money? ›

  • Leica M6. ...
  • Leica M2. ...
  • Rolleiflex 2.8GX. ...
  • Hasselblad XPan. ...
  • Contax 645. ...
  • Hasselblad 501CM. ...
  • Hasselblad 503CW. ...
  • Deardorff 8x10. This camera is a little different than anything else on the list, but it's one of the most iconic and valuable old cameras out there.
Jan 15, 2024

How can you tell how old a Polaroid camera is? ›

Every Polaroid SX-70 instant film camera has its own unique serial number, you can derive the production date from this number!

How old is the oldest Polaroid camera? ›

The first Polaroid camera, called the Model 95, and its associated film went on sale in 1948 at a department store in Boston. The cameras sold out in minutes.

How much is my old Polaroid camera worth? ›

If you have an old Polaroid camera lying around, then you might be wondering, “How much is an old Polaroid camera worth?” Vintage Polaroid camera value can range a lot depending on many factors, but in general, they range from as little as $10 to $20 and as high as $1000 or more.

Are old cameras worth selling? ›

Assessing the Value of Vintage Cameras

Even cameras that are no longer in working condition can be worth money, either as decorative pieces, for parts or for repair and restoration.

How do I know if my vintage camera is worth money? ›

However, some defining factors that can determine a camera as having genuine value are quality and uniqueness – such as whether the item is a special edition or made in fewer numbers). Cameras that were very popular in their heyday are also likely to hold their value to the present day.

Are 40 year old cameras worth anything? ›

Unfortunately, not all vintage cameras are worth a lot. While some are worth thousands of dollars, some merely go for less than a hundred dollars. The price of a vintage camera depends upon multiple factors. One of the major factors that affect the value of a vintage camera is its rarity.

How old does a camera have to be to be considered vintage? ›

VINTAGE: Over 50 years old. ANTIQUE: Over 75 years old.

Do old Polaroid cameras still work? ›

Types of vintage Polaroid cameras

Of these thirteen types of cameras, only five types are still supported. Three of these five would be considered vintage by today's standards. These types of vintage Polaroid cameras that are still supported are cameras that use SX-70, 600, and 8×10 Integral Film.

What year were Polaroid cameras popular? ›

The Polaroid story in short: The product we refer to really is called Instant Film by the American company Polaroid. Small-format photographs are developed in-camera in minutes. Introduced in 1948, and from 1963 onwards in color, Polaroids became a pop culture phenomenon in the 1970s.

How many years does a Polaroid last? ›

The lifespan of a Polaroid photo really depends on how it's handled and cared for. Just like any other photo, they can last for decades if stored properly. However, they can also fade super quickly if they're not taken care of.

What was the first color Polaroid camera? ›

1972 Polaroid SX-70 Land Camera, the first automatic, motorized, folding, single-lens reflex camera which makes self-developing instant color prints, is introduced.

How much did Polaroid cameras cost in the 80s? ›

Most Polaroids at the time cost well under $100, making them accessible to all. It might surprise you to learn that the Polaroid 80s editions were not the first ones. Instead, the Polaroid brand dates back to 1948.

What was the first original Polaroid camera? ›

The first roll film camera was the Polaroid Model 95, followed by subsequent models containing various new features. Roll film came in two rolls (positive/developing agent and negative) which were loaded into the camera and was eventually offered in three sizes (40, 30, and 20 series).

What is the rarest Polaroid land camera? ›

The Polaroid 185 Land Camera is one of the more rare cameras produced by Polaroid, and part of their professional series of folding pack film cameras. Not to be confused with the limited edition Model 185 manufactured by Polaroid Japan in 2000, the original 185 Land Camera was released in the 1960s.

Can you sell old digital cameras? ›

At Zapper we'll give you a competitive quote on your used digital cameras that you could use to fund a newer, better model or spend whatever you so please. With Zapper, selling digital cameras is easy! Our straight-forward service has no hidden fees – all the money goes straight into your pocket!

Can you still get film for old Polaroids? ›

Today, if you come across a vintage camera manufactured by Polaroid—which went bankrupt and shut down in 2001—you can still buy film for that camera from a newer, mostly unrelated company: Polaroid.

How much was a Polaroid camera in the 80s? ›

Most Polaroids at the time cost well under $100, making them accessible to all. It might surprise you to learn that the Polaroid 80s editions were not the first ones. Instead, the Polaroid brand dates back to 1948.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Geoffrey Lueilwitz

Last Updated:

Views: 5609

Rating: 5 / 5 (80 voted)

Reviews: 95% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Geoffrey Lueilwitz

Birthday: 1997-03-23

Address: 74183 Thomas Course, Port Micheal, OK 55446-1529

Phone: +13408645881558

Job: Global Representative

Hobby: Sailing, Vehicle restoration, Rowing, Ghost hunting, Scrapbooking, Rugby, Board sports

Introduction: My name is Geoffrey Lueilwitz, I am a zealous, encouraging, sparkling, enchanting, graceful, faithful, nice person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.