They were introduced in 1939 as a less expensive alternative to the Kodak Retina series.
[1] The first models were of the folding type using bellows and their lenses had three elements as compared to the four element Tessar lenses (Greek: Tessera meaning four) of the Retina series.
[2][3] The Rodenstock lenses were based on the original Schneider Kreuznach triplet (three optical element) design.
[3] Kodak Anastigmat Angénieux lenses were also used especially for the French market.
[4] Common shutters included Compur–Rapid as well as various Pronto, Vero and Kodak models.