Mercury II (Model CX) with 35mm f/3.5 Tricor | S/N: [Pending]

Mercury II 35mm f/3.5 Tricor - Good Condition | The Art Deco Half-Frame Specialist with Rotary Shutter

Introductory Paragraph The Mercury II, produced by the Universal Camera Corporation, is the definitive choice for the enthusiast who values the radical engineering and bold Art Deco aesthetics of post-war American camera design. Instantly recognizable by its distinctive "hump"—which houses a unique, high-speed rotary metal shutter—this model is celebrated for its half-frame format, allowing for 72 exposures on a standard 35mm roll. This unit is equipped with the 35mm f/3.5 Tricor lens (S/N: 107762), an optics set specifically matched to the smaller negative size to provide sharp, characterful images. Because it features a shutter capable of reaching 1/1000s, it serves as an incredibly capable tool for capturing fast action in a compact, mechanical package. Whether you are a collector of unique industrial mechanisms or a film photographer looking to maximize your frame count, this Universal provides the mechanical honesty and avant-garde style that made the Mercury series a cult classic.

Key Features

• Innovative half-frame design (18x24mm), effectively doubling the capacity of any 35mm film roll.

• Unique rotary metal focal-plane shutter providing high-speed accuracy up to 1/1000s.

• Characterful 35mm f/3.5 Tricor lens (S/N: 107762) delivering a classic vintage rendering and sharpness.

• Bold Art Deco aluminum alloy body, offering a lightweight yet durable chassis with a striking silhouette.

• Integrated depth-of-field calculator and exposure guide on the rear of the camera for rapid manual settings.

• Fully mechanical operation, requiring no batteries for the shutter, transport, or focus.

• Cold-shoe mount for external accessories and flash synchronization capabilities.

Condition Report Good condition. Body: The Universal Mercury II body shows normal signs of light use and minor cosmetic surface wear consistent with its vintage heritage. The aluminum finish remains bright and the iconic rotary hump is free from major dents. Sensor/Optics: The 35mm f/3.5 Tricor lens is optically clear; free from fungus, haze, or significant scratches. The viewfinder is clean and allows for easy framing. Mechanics/Electronics: The rotary shutter fires accurately across its range. The film advance and rewind mechanisms have been tested and are working smoothly.

Specialist Note "The Mercury II is a mechanical marvel that looks like nothing else in the world of photography. What I love about this model is the 'zing' of the rotary shutter—it’s a very different sound and feel compared to the typical cloth shutters of the era. It’s a rugged, honest piece of American engineering that really challenges you to think differently about your compositions because of the vertical half-frame orientation. The Tricor lens is surprisingly punchy, especially for black-and-white work. For anyone looking for a unique, highly conversation-starting camera that is also surprisingly practical for modern film costs, this Mercury is a top-tier choice."

What's Included

• Mercury II (Model CX) 35mm Half-Frame Camera

• Universal 35mm f/3.5 Tricor Lens (S/N: 107762)
  

Technical Specifications

• Brand: Universal Camera Corp.

• Model: Mercury II (CX)

• Camera Type: Compact Film Camera (Half-Frame)

• Lens: 35mm f/3.5 Tricor

• Shutter: Rotary Metal Focal-Plane (up to 1/1000s)

• Film Format: 35mm Half-Frame (18x24mm)

• Category: 1. Cameras ▸ Compact Film Camera

• Battery Type: None