The Ansco B-2 Cadet was introduced in the in the late 1930’s and was sold in large numbers through the late 1940’s. There were two models of Cadets available during this time, one under the name Ansco and one sold an Agfa. These two models were built here in New York,even though Agfa was a German Company. The Ansco Cadet is a B-2, which designates that the camera will accept Agfa B-2 film. What we would commonly call 120mm film today.
The camera is very simple to use and features a shutter lever, a film advance knob. Simple as that. The shutter that Ansco provided is an “always off” shutter, functioning much like a modern camera. A single lever actuates the shutter at a slow 1/50-1/60 sec. This makes the use of high-speed film difficult in bright light. Ansco recommends ASA 50 to 100 for normal use. The camera produces a massive 6x9 negative on 120mm film and is well suited for landscape and general photography. Ansco did produce a portrait/close up optic for the camera, but those are now hard to come by.
This particular Ansco B-2 Cadet is in great working shape, the lens is clean and the shutters fires quickly. Mostly constructed from cardboard with a hint of metal it is ready to shoot. It would be a great starting point for someone wanting to dip their toes into medium format photography. This and other great vintage cameras are currently for sale at Richmond Camera Carytown.