FED 2 (Type b) (F131)

Produced from 1956 to 1958, the FED 2 (Type b) (F131) represents a mid-production evolution of FED's iconic Soviet rangefinder line, continuing the tradition of Leica-inspired 35mm cameras. This iteration offered a more robust and refined experience than its predecessors, featuring a coupled rangefinder for precise focusing, a cloth focal-plane shutter with speeds typically ranging from 1/25s to 1/500s, and a standard 40mm lens mount compatible with a range of M39 screw-mount lenses. Aimed at the domestic Soviet market and as an affordable export option, it was a functional, workhorse camera embodying the accessible, utilitarian design philosophy of Kharkiv's FED factory during the mid-1950s, characterized by its distinctive body shape and basic yet reliable mechanics.