73 years of world class optics

Established in 1949, PRAKTICA optics have been held by those who lead, perform and experience the unthinkable. This includes the first manned Soviet space program - shown above - though our story dates back to the 1830s when the first camera was developed in Dresden, East Germany. Today we continue to launch world class products that are both functional and desirable.

1949 - 1990

8.5 million SLR cameras left the factories around Dresden between 1949 and 1990.

Why PRAKTICA?

We intend on transforming your experience of optics. Whatever your passion - be it birdwatching, athletics, horse racing, or a night at the opera - our products with help you celebrate those unforgettable moments in superb detail.

PRAKTICA stands for style, comfort, performance and precision. From pocket sized cameras to ED glass binoculars, our products are engineered to enhance your lifestyle at a revolutionary price.

1830-1990
Dresden, Eastern Germany became an innovative hub for camera manufacturing. Famously known for the entrepreneurship of the Enzmann brothers, Richard Hüttig, Emil Wünsche and Heinrich Ernemann.
1926
The four largest German camera manufacturers merged to form Zeiss-Ikon, making Dresden the largest camera manufacturing region in Europe.
1935
The first 35mm twin-lens reflex camera with interchangeable lens and built-in exposure meter was invented in Dresden.
1939
The Praktiflex 35mm SLR was launched. The concept proved successful, and through continuous development the PRAKTICA name became one of the most popular 35mm SLR brands for several decades.
1949
The first official PRAKTICA single-lens reflex camera was manufactured with a M42 lens mount. New PRAKTICA models followed FX, IV, V, Nova, L-Series which soared in popularity and finally gave PRAKTICA the world wide acceptance of world-class camera manufacturing.
1959
Under the socialists' economic regime, Dresden's camera and lens manufacturers were all systematically merged founding the company Pentacon
1978
Pentacon and PRAKTICA SLR cameras were the first cameras used in a manned space program organised by the Russian Soviets.
1985
Pentacon merged with Carl Zeiss Jena and introduced a range of modern sports cameras and binoculars
1989
With the collapse of communism and the fall of the Berlin Wall, the Pentacon and Carl Zeiss partnership ended. Following this the Schneider lens group invested heavily in Pentacon, helping them to continue to manufacture PRAKTICA cameras.
Today
PRAKTICA continue to launch photographic imaging and sports optics products specialised for both amateur and professional users.