Kodak Eastman: Party Star

[bill339]

A Party Star Kodamatic Instant Camera, manufactured by Kodak Limited in 1983 and discontinued in 1984. This camera for taking 'instant' photographs is fitted with an f/2.8, 100mm fixed-focus lens and an electronic shutter - 1/15 of a second to 1/250 of a second. The camera's built-in electronic flash can fire automatically on each exposure if needed and the flash, shutter, and other electric components are powered by four AA batteries in a compartment on the back of the film door. This camera was produced by Kodak for distribution at Tupperware parties that were the big rage at the time. The Party Star is a partial folding camera with rubber billows instead of paper. It also has light to dark slide selector, frame counter that counted down to zero, a large viewfinder, a flash ready light, a flash auto switch, and came with a handy carry strap. Kodak began to manufacture instant cameras in 1977. Polaroid, who had pioneered instant photography in 1948, took legal action. In 1985, after prolonged litigation, judgment went against Kodak who had to discontinue the production of instant cameras and film. This camera pictured above is in good condition. The Party Star Kodamatic label next to the tricolored pyramid is on this camera. The original tag could be sent back to Kodak by the owner so they could get their money back after the lawsuit.