About Argus C3
The Argus C3, nicknamed "The Brick" for its solid, boxy design, is a 35mm rangefinder camera produced from 1939 to 1966 by Argus Corporation in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Known for its reliability, affordability, and simplicity, it became a favorite among everyday photographers. The C3 features an easy-to-use focusing system, making it ideal for those who wanted to take pictures without fuss. Its interchangeable lens system added versatility, typically paired with a 50mm f/3.5 Coated Cintar lens. While additional lenses like the 35mm wide-angle or 100mm telephoto offered more options, the viewfinder wasn’t perfectly aligned with the lens, but photographers adapted to this quirk. Over 2 million units were sold, making it one of the best-selling cameras of all time. Notably, World War II photographer Tony Vaccaro used a C3 during the war and later in his fashion photography career. Today, the Argus C3 is a beloved vintage camera, prized by collectors for its nostalgia and rugged charm, with prices ranging from $50 to $150 depending on condition and accessories.
