The Praktina was the first 'system SLR' offering features such as motor drive and bulk film backs not found on the Exacta, and preceding the Nikon F by several years. It was the first SLR to have a motor drive.

The first model (FX) was brought out in 1952 or 53 it had a semi-automatic lens diaphragm that had to be manually opened and tensioned after exposure by a lever on the underside of the lens. The diaphragm was kept open by a spring latched in the tensioned positioned, when the diaphragm pin was depressed that latch was released the spring contracted and closed the diaphragm to its pre-set position. On the model 11A (1958) the diaphragm was automatic, it opened when the shutter was tensioned; a spring in the lens tends to close the diaphragm, it is held in the open state by a plunger in the camera body acting on the lens, during exposure the plunger is withdrawn (which allows the diaphragm to close) and returned after exposure when the shutter is tensioned.

The lens mount is a breech lock type with the moving ring attached to the camera body, as on the later Praktiflex. There are variations and developments in the camera models.

In the early 1960s production was ended allowing KW to concentrate on the amateur end of the market with its Praktica range.

A large number of lenses were available, other accessories included:

• Bellows.
• Extension tubes, pre-set or automatic.
• Lens reversing ring.
• Rigid magnifying hood.
• Waist-level finder.
• Motor drive, two versions for clock-work or electric.
• Roof Pentaprism with selenium meter.
• Bulk film back for 50' of film.
• Lever-wind attachment.
• Stereo prism and viewing eye-piece.
• Accessories to fit pentaprism: eye-cup, right-angle finder, magnifier.