Fast forward to a flashback of a kinder, gentler, and cheaper form of photography. The original, pre-Lomography, release of the 110 film format was accompanied by a wave of inexpensive, plastic cameras that bore a retail price of less then $30. Incredibly, in today’s economy of inflation, tariffs, and taxes it is nearly incomprehensible to believe that a new (old stock) 110 film format camera from this historical 110 format era can be purchased for that same sub-$30 price tag. But, it’s true. And Hanimex makes it happen.
Specifically, a Hanimex 110 F Auto-Grip camera can be purchased from legendary retailer, Freestyle Photo & Imaging for $29.99. Yes, this is a “new” in the old box, camera that comes complete with that authentic musty odor from vintage neglect. The enclosed Instructions state that you are a “proud owner” of “one of the most up-to-date pocket cameras made today.” OK, that’s good to know. Likewise, this up-to-date camera features an f/11 “optical lens” plus a “bright, clear viewfinder.” Rounding out this “pocket camera outfit” is a “convenient wrist strap.”
The landmark feature of the Hanimex 110 F Auto-Grip camera is the presence of its grip. Variously named “grip camera,” “pistol grip,” and “grip case” throughout the Instructions, this simple, pivot-hinged covering enables the Hanimex 110 F Auto-Grip camera to be easily and safely slipped into any pants pocket. Furthermore, the protection afforded by this case enables anyone to carry a camera with them during cycling, running, or any other outdoor activity. Plus the camera’s airy light weight is a small fraction of the heft packed into a glass-metal smartphone.
Shoot Like It’s Yesterday, Today
Based on the available 110-format films for today’s photographers, the Hanimex 110 F Auto-Grip camera will accept either ISO 100 or 400 films. The available camera controls for handling these films are extremely simple. There is a small slider switch that moves a reduced aperture in front of the lens for “sunny days” when using ISO 400 film. And that’s it. Therefore, the best use case for the Hanimex 110 F Auto-Grip camera is sunny weather conditions with limited experimentation using bright, controlled lighting.
Using Lomography LomoChrome Purple XR 100-400 film, several rolls were exposed with the Hanimex 110 F Auto-Grip camera. The results may surprise you.
Hanimex does make several statements inside the Instructions that “high quality photographs” are possible with the Hanimex 110 F Auto-Grip camera. Unfortunately, some of these claims might have been linked to the use of the discontinued “Flip Flash.” This 10-exposure (Note: some 8-exposure varieties existed, too) flash bulb system might’ve made compelling photographs at ranges of 5 to 15 feet. If only some new “old stock” Flip Flash bulbs could be located, then this modern “flashback” would be picture perfect.
Please note: Freestyle Photo & Imaging also sells another vintage 110 format film camera, the Halina Pix 110F for $29.99. The main difference between this camera and the Hanimex 110 F Auto-Grip camera is that the Halina Pix 110F has an electronic flash that uses two ‘AA’ batteries for power. Therefore, no Flip Flash is required for flash exposures.
Enjoy.
