Steky Model IIIa

Steky Model IIIa - Good Condition | Rare 16mm Subminiature Spy Camera

The Steky Model IIIa is a fascinating piece of post-war Japanese precision engineering, standing as one of the most iconic "spy cameras" of the 1950s. Manufactured by the Asahi Musen Co. (later Riken/Ricoh), this subminiature camera is remarkably well-built with an all-metal, chrome-finished body that fits easily in the palm of a hand. Unlike standard cameras of its time, the Steky IIIa uses 16mm film (often supplied in specialized cassettes), allowing it to be incredibly compact while still offering interchangeable lenses and fully manual controls. It is a masterpiece of miniature design, highly prized by collectors for its history and its surprisingly capable Stekinar 25mm lens, which delivers sharp images on a tiny negative.

Key Features

• Ultra-compact subminiature design for covert or "spy" photography

• High-quality Stekinar 25mm f/3.5 interchangeable lens

• Fully mechanical operation with manual shutter speeds and aperture settings

• Uses 16mm film (standard movie film width) in specialized Steky cassettes

• Robust all-metal construction with a high-polish chrome aesthetic

• Top-mounted optical viewfinder for quick framing

• Specialized cold shoe for mounting miniature accessories or flashes

Technical Specifications

• Camera Type: Subminiature Camera

• Film Format: 16mm (Subminiature)

• Lens: Stekinar 25mm f/3.5 (Interchangeable)

• Shutter Speeds: 1/25s, 1/50s, 1/100s + Bulb

• Category: Cameras ▸ Digital Compact Camera

• Battery Type: No Battery Required (Fully Mechanical)

Specialist Note "The Steky IIIa is the ultimate conversation piece for any camera enthusiast. In an era where most subminiature cameras were toys, the Steky was built like a miniature Leica. It features a real focal plane shutter and interchangeable lenses, which was unheard of for something this size. What makes the IIIa particularly special is the inclusion of the 'f' sync for flash on the front. While finding the original 16mm cassettes can be a challenge today, many enthusiasts use the Steky as a beautiful piece of shelf-art or meticulously slit 35mm film down to 16mm to keep this mechanical marvel alive. It represents a unique chapter in Japanese optical history where 'small' truly meant 'high-end'."

Condition Report Good condition. The camera body shows normal signs of light use and minor cosmetic surface wear on the chrome finish consistent with its age. The Stekinar 25mm lens is clear, free from fungus or significant haze. The shutter has been tested and fires across all three speeds and the Bulb setting. The film transport mechanism and internal components appear to be in good mechanical order.

What's Included

• Steky Model IIIa 16mm Camera

• Stekinar 25mm f/3.5 Lens