The Brilliant is a simplified twin-lens reflex (TLR) lying somewhere between a box camera and a true TLR. It was introduced in Germany in 1932 and a year later in the UK.

Metal bodied model

The first model (1932) had an enlarged brilliant view-finder, the camera was well-made with a metal body and leather or leatherette covering. The cheapest lenses were an f9 or f7.7 Voigtar in a two speed shutter, the f9 version does not seem to have been marketed in the UK. Also available were an f6.3 Voigtar in a three speed shutter and an f4.5 Skopar in a Compur or Compur Rapid. This model proved very popular especially with the cheapest lens which was priced at £2.10.0.

On the model with an f9 or f7.7 lens the name plate is flush with the body from which the panel carrying the lenses protrudes a few millimetres; on the other models the name plate is flush with the panel carrying the lenses, this is a result of bringing the finder forward.

Early versions of the metal bodied model have a smooth paint finish later (c. 1934) a crackle finish was used, leatherette panels were also used on later models rather than leather. The 'red' window was moved from the bottom of the camera to the camera back on later models.

V/6

In 1937 a new model - V/6 - was introduced. This had a plastic body and an automatic film advance stop. The hood included a frame finder. In the side of the camera was a compartment to store filters etc. Several lenses and shutters were available: f7.7, f6.3, f4.5, f3.5 Voigtar or f4.5 Skopar. Shutters were: a 'two speed', Prontor 11, Compur, or Compur Rapid. This model was also produced after World War II.

Focusing model

In 1938 a focusing model was introduced, this used the upper lens to focus on the viewing screen which was a central ground spot on the large bi-convex upper lens of the view-finder. Also included was an extinction exposure meter which fitted onto the viewing lens and an optical direct-vision view-finder in the focusing hood. It had a plastic body similar to the V/6 with a metal hood. Lenses were: f4.5, f3.5 Voigtar, f3.5 Skopar, f3.5 Heliar. The shutter was a Compur or Compur Rapid. Focusing was not very easy due to the aberrations and distortion of the bi-convex lens.