May 11th, 2008
The Best of Antiques
and Collecting
What are you looking for?
Even before the first 19th century cameras were produced, wood was used for their predecessor, the camera obscura, to keep the inside completely dark. Early wood cameras (also incorporating brass and leather parts) were mostly box models, but also included view cameras and self-casing cameras. Wood gave way to handheld cameras in the 1920s.
Now that cameras have gone digital, almost everyone has an ‘antique’ around the house. But the difference between a classic high-end Leica with fine optics, an early wood Kodak Brownie with great historical character, and a 1960s Polaroid with great retro looks can be huge. If you’re going to collect cameras, let your knowledge develop first.
This showcase of vintage cameras and photography is plainly designed, but the camera collection and related referen… [more]
Michael Tisdale's great reference site on Paillard Bolex, a Swiss maker of home movie equipment from the 1930s to 1… [more]
Jack and Beverly Wilgus have put together a great trove of information and images of camera obscura-related photos … [more]
If you're into box cameras, this site offers incredible detail on dozens of early models from 1880 to the 1920s. Al… [more]
While we couldn't read everthing - it's mostly in French - the images on this site speak for themselves. Its an ext… [more]
Rob Niederman’s homage to (and collection of) late 19th century wood cameras. This site contains extensive galler… [more]
Got a site to suggest? Let us know.
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