The only distinctive feature of the front of the Ektra II is the cover for the viewfinder. Does this suggest that the viewfinder optics were redesigned? Since the supplemental finder element for the 35mm lens fits over theold viewfinder bezel, what was the Ektra II owner to do for wide angle shots? Still no on the lens to suggest hard-coating and without seeing the rear of the lens to check its serial number, we don't know when the lens was manufacured.
The bottom of the Ektra II shows a new beefier tripod mount. The spring-driven motor drive back was just one of the optional backs that could be used with the Ektra II. Otherwise the back of the camera body and the standard film back were unchanged.
 
The new slow speed selector and the motor drive back tantalizes with the implication that perhaps other redesign blessed the Ektra II shutter. Those hoping for the 254mm telephoto described in the original prospectus and engraved on the Ektra's viewfinder focal length dial would have had to give way to their growing fears that they would have to be satisified with 153mm.
 
Thanks to the eBay seller, who probably prefers his anonymity and who granted permission to use these shots.
 

06/15/2006 1:09