Classic Camera Is Fast Developing A Niche Fanbase
We all thought Polaroid had beaten 35mm film, audio cassettes and VHS tapes to the graveyard of the past technical triumphs, but it has breathed new life.
Not only is an instant printing Polaroid camera being tipped as a niche seasonal gift for the enthusiast who has everything, it is a high tech Bluetooth connected model, replete with LED flash and USB charging.
Yet, it also has a remarkable retro design that more elderly punters will instantly associate with those classic black bake-lite phones from the 50s.
Polaroid shut up shop in 2008, but some devotees stepped in and brought the last remaining factory, determined to keep the instant film camera alive.
When they found the machines dismantled and the technical know-how dissipated, they called their new company ‘Impossible.’
Having re-engineered the film, they started by manufacturing supplies for existing cameras and then refurbishing Polaroid cameras that had expired.
Then they progressed to re-creating old models and, now, marketing new hi-tech options.
Despite its generous size, the new Impossible Polaroid I-1 is said to be easy to handle and is as happy instantly posting a snap to social media through its Bluetooth link to a smartphone app, also used for remote triggering of the shutter, as it is winding out the instant print copy.
Younger folks are unlikely to get the point and will ask “Why, when my smartphone camera can do all I want?”
Tech buffs who have been around the block a few more times, though, could love this amalgam of ancient and modern.
Mind you, this huge helping of tech reminiscence with a modern twist, is quite pricey at almost £250.
