Kodak Brownie Starflash Camera, era 50s-60s

The Camera

Name: Kodak Brownie Starflash Camera
Manufacturer: Eastman Kodak Company
Date: Introduced in 1957, produced until the mid-1960s
Type: Medium-format film camera (127 roll film)
Lens: Dakon lens, fixed focus
Flash: Built-in flashgun for M2 flashbulbs (hence the large reflector bowl at the top)
Film: 127 film, capable of 12 exposures per roll (black & white or color)

About the Camera

The Brownie Starflash was one of Kodak’s most popular consumer cameras of the late 1950s and early 1960s. It was part of the Brownie Star line, designed to be simple, affordable, and reliable for the amateur market. The built-in flash reflector was a major innovation at the time — most earlier Brownies required a separate flash attachment.

This model was marketed heavily toward families who wanted to capture birthdays, holidays, and travel snapshots. Its design is charmingly mid-century, with clean lines, chrome accents, and the iconic oversized flash.

Why That Date Range

• The Starflash was introduced in 1957 and discontinued in the early 1960s, as Kodak transitioned to Instamatic models.

• The styling and materials — metal flash housing, cream/metallic faceplate, and plastic body — are consistent with Kodak’s late-1950s design language.

Collectability & Value

These cameras are highly collectible among vintage camera enthusiasts and retro décor lovers. While not rare (millions were made), the integrated flash makes it one of the more desirable Brownie models.