127

Kodak introduced the 127 film format in 1912 alongside their “Vest Pocket Kodak” folding camera. This paper-backed roll film came on a 46mm spool and captured eight exposures that were 4cm × 6.5cm each. Because enlargements were uncommon at the time, most prints were made with the contact print method, resulting in prints of the same size: 4cm × 6.5cm.

In 1930, during the Great Depression, camera manufacturers tried to economize the use of film and designed cameras that captured 16 exposures in 3cm × 4cm format using the same 127 film. In the 1950s the popular line of Kodak Star cameras stoked a revival of 127 film with cameras designed to capture 12 exposures at 4cm × 4cm each. This format also introduced the SuperSlide format which could capture color slides at 4cm × 4cm that could still be viewed with a projector designed for 35mm slides.

After the 1960s, 127 film saw a sharp decline in popularity as 126 Instamatic film overtook the consumer market and 135 film grew in popularity among the serious amateur and professional market. Kodak finally stopped producing 127 film in July 1995.

Share your thoughts