The Polaroid Spectra cameras were manufactured from 1987 until 2000, and were considered an advanced edition of the 600 line. They originally retailed for about $249.00, and were aimed at the professional market.
The camera shipped with a 125 mm three-element plastic "Quintic" f/10 lens, although some models apparently have a sharper ground glass lens. The picture quality was superior to earlier Polaroid models. Other new features included red-eye reduction, wider photo format, and the ability to use either auto- or manual focus.
Despite the many benefits of the Spectra, they are not in demand with collectors. One reason may be that the film has been discontinued, and is scare, expensive and expired. A small boutique company, Impossible Project, makes a limited amount of fresh Spectra film, but it's also expensive.
The early Spectras sell for almost nothing -- sometimes less than $1.00, usually no more than $10. The more recent (black) Spectra II commands a slightly higher price, between $15.00 and $50.00, depending on condition.
[November 2010]
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