The Legacy of the Polaroid Autofocus 660
What you’ll get: An understanding of how the Polaroid Autofocus 660 became an icon of instant film photography.
Launched in the 1980s, the Polaroid Autofocus 660 was part of the SX-70 and 600 series evolution. Its most distinctive hallmark was the use of a sonar autofocus system, creating a literal “ping” as it measured distance. This ushered in a new era of point-and-shoot instant cameras.
The first time I heard the sonar click and held a print as it slowly developed in my hands, it felt like magic made tangible.
Key Features and Technical Characteristics
What you’ll get: Practical details on lenses, focus, flash, and film compatibility.
Lens and Exposure System
The Polaroid 660 camera is built with a 116mm f/11 fixed lens, featuring autofocus with manual override. Exposure is handled by automatic shutter speeds between 1/4s to 1/200s, making it versatile in varied lighting.
Flash and Control
A built-in electronic flash pairs with a lighten/darken slider, offering some control over brightness. This makes spontaneous portraits easier even in challenging light.
Film Compatibility
It accepts Polaroid 600 instant film—still available in color, black and white, and creative editions in 2025.
Why the Polaroid Autofocus 660 Still Works in 2025
What you’ll get: How this camera fits into modern workflows and why it thrives with today’s creators.
Every Polaroid 600 film pack includes its own battery, so there’s no need for charging or carrying spare batteries. The tactile experience and imperfect prints have become stylistic choices rather than limitations.
Hybrid practices, like creating stop-motion sequences with scanned Polaroids, show how the 660 bridges analog and digital creativity.
I once used scanned Polaroid prints to animate a stop-motion sequence for a class project—it gave my visuals a dreamlike authenticity.
Creative Use Cases for the Autofocus 660
What you’ll get: Inspiration for how this camera adds value to different projects.
- Street portraits with vintage flair
- Experimental art projects
- Event keepsakes with tactile charm
Its instant nature makes it approachable even for camera-shy subjects, producing keepsakes that feel personal and rare.
Second-Hand Buying Guide for the Polaroid Autofocus 660
What you’ll get: Key inspection points when buying second-hand and common considerations for vintage purchases.
- ✔ Test autofocus for clicking sound
- ✔ Fire flash with fresh pack
- ✔ Inspect rollers for smoothness
- ✔ Examine lens and sonar grill
- ✔ Load a Polaroid 600 pack for final test
Once, while testing a second-hand Polaroid, I discovered the flash fired brighter than expected—a small triumph that sealed the purchase.
Quick decision
- If autofocus clicks, you’re likely good to go.
- Check rollers—sticky rollers ruin prints.
- Functional flash is a must for low light.
Accessories and Film Options
What you’ll get: Ways to expand the creative potential of the Polaroid Autofocus 660.
Many enthusiasts experiment with Polaroid Duochrome or seasonal packs that deliver unique tones. Close-up lenses expand portrait work, and film warmers help keep chemistry stable in cold conditions. For archiving, flatbed scanners preserve prints in high resolution.
Summary: Who Should Choose the Autofocus 660?
What you’ll get: Clarity on whether this instant film camera fits your creative approach.
The 660 is a sweet spot for analog lovers, design students, and hybrid creators. It captures the tactile vintage style of Polaroid with enough practicality to be usable daily.
Pros
- Reliable autofocus sonar system
- Battery built into every film pack
- Compatible with modern Polaroid 600 film
- Tactile, imperfect prints with unique character
Cons
- Limited manual controls
- Dependent on film pack availability
- Expect cosmetic wear on second-hand models
FAQs
Does the Polaroid Autofocus 660 need batteries? No—Polaroid 600 film packs come with built-in batteries that power the camera.
What film does the Polaroid Autofocus 660 use? It uses Polaroid 600 film packs in color, black & white, and limited editions.
How much should I pay for a second-hand Autofocus 660? Expect between €30–€80, depending on cosmetic and functional condition.
Is the autofocus reliable after so many years? Usually yes—the sonar system is durable, but always test before buying.
Find your Polaroid Autofocus 660 and start shooting instantly
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