Rare Vintage Zenit 12XP with Helios-44M-4 Lens and Leather Case

Description

I’ve been keeping this camera for years — it’s a real Soviet-era Zenit 12сд, the one with Cyrillic "Зенит" on the body, not the export version you see in shops. It’s one of those rare ones made for the domestic market, so not super common in the UK, especially in good shape.

It’s fully working — shutter, film advance, light meter all test out fine. The lens is a Helios 44M-4, which I’ve actually loved using for its smooth bokeh and clean, crisp focus. The lens is clean, the aperture feels smooth, and it’s got that classic Soviet build quality.

Everything’s original: leather case, strap, lens cap — nothing swapped out. The camera’s a bit worn around the edges, but that’s fair for its age. I’ve used it a handful of times over the years, mostly for fun shots, and it’s been a real joy to handle.

It’s sitting in a storage box at my place in Bagshot, Surrey Heath — just a quick drop off if you’re local. I’m not selling it for a lot, just passing it on because I’ve got a new one I’m getting into. Still feels like a solid piece of film history, and if you’re into vintage cameras or Soviet-era gear, it’s something you’d actually want to see.

Only about 90,000 were made — so it’s not super common, and I’m happy to have it back in someone’s hands.