📦 Guide to Polaroid 600-Series Box Cameras - Understanding the Differences Between Models Like 670 AF, 670 SE, 650 CL, Sun 660
- Gavin Kapuscinski
- Jun 27
- 2 min read
🔄 What They Have in Common:
All of the cameras below are:
Compatible with Polaroid 600 film (or i-Type film with adapter mods)
Use integrated automatic exposure systems
Feature built-in flash
Use the iconic fold-up “box” design
Designed primarily for point-and-shoot operation
📸 MODEL-BY-MODEL COMPARISON
Model | Autofocus System | Notable Features | Focus Points | Branding / Market |
Polaroid Sun 660 | Sonar AF | Gold sonar ring, light management system | 5 0.6m-Infinity | USA / Global |
Polaroid 670AF | Sonar AF | Sleeker shell, often black/red trim, L.M. System | 5 0.6m-Infinity | Europe-focused |
Polaroid 670SE | Sonar AF | “SE” stands for Special Edition (cosmetic), Internally the same as 670Af | 5 0.6m-Infinity | Europe |
Polaroid 650CL | Sonar AF | Matte black, “Cool Look” styling, rare variant | 5 0.6m-Infinity | Mostly Europe |
Polaroid Sun 600 | None (fixed focus) | Basic model, exposure compensation switch | 1 1.2m-Infinity | Global |
Polaroid 636 CloseUp | None (fixed focus) | Switchable close-up lens, late model | 2 0.6m 1.2m-Infinity | Worldwide |
Polaroid P600 | None (fixed focus) | Switchable close-up lens, late model | 2 0.6m 1.2m-Infinity | Worldwide |
🧠 A Bit About the Tech:
🔊 Sonar Autofocus
Models like the Sun 660, 670AF, and 650CL use ultrasonic sonar to determine subject distance and auto-focus the lens.
The gold disc on the front is not just decorative — it's an active rangefinder.
Much more accurate than fixed-focus models.
🎛️ Light Management System (LMS)
Featured on higher-end models (Sun 660, 670 series).
Provides better automatic exposure adjustment in difficult lighting.
🎨 Cosmetic vs Functional Differences
670 SE and 650 CL are mostly cosmetic/market variants of the 670AF or Sun 660.
"CL" = “Cool Look” - Typically an all-black version with identical internals.
"SE" - "Special Edition" - Typically the same camera with a slightly different look, sold originally with an extended warranty.
🔎 Summary: Which One Is Right for You?
You Want... | Choose This Model |
Best Autofocus + Exposure | Sun 660 or 670AF |
Rare / Stylish Collectible | 650CL or 670SE or SE 670 AF |
Budget-Friendly Entry to Polaroid | Sun 600 or P600 or 600AF |
Close-up Feature Without Sonar | 636 CloseUp |
A Camera That Looks as Good as It Shoots | 670SE or 650CL |
🛠️ Tip from AnalogueCam.com:
If you're shopping for one of these secondhand, focus more on condition and working electronics than exact model number. Most differences are minor or cosmetic, and all take the same film. We offer refurbishment, lens tuning, and part replacement for all of them and finally - ALL OUR CAMERAS COME WITH AT LEAST A ONE YEAR WARRANTY!
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