VOOMP–GOI II “Pioneer” №1699

Most of the Soviet VOOMP II “Pioneer” cameras were made by GOMZ (GOI) between 1933 and 1937. The last examples were made in 1937, and until now no camera with a serial number higher than 1100 has been recorded. This VOOMP II “Pioneer” №1699 camera (type C) was made in 1944 by GOI, already after the siege of Leningrad (Saint Petersburg), and is probably the last example of the legendary VOOMP II “Pioneer”. On the top plate, it shows the rare type of engravings – typical for the latest examples of this camera. The body is covered in a special type of vulcanite. The camera sports unnumbered GOI 3.5/50mm lens.

For many years this unique camera was a part of the GOI museum – it did not leave the factory since February 1944.

Photo credit: © Leitz Photographica Auction

References

1. Sovetskoe Foto (1926 - 1991)
2. Jean Loup Princelle (1995) Russian and Soviet Cameras
3. LOMO LC-A 35mm Operation Manual (1990)
4. USSRPhoto.com
5. SovietCams.com