Posted 12 years ago
bccanyon
(8 items)
I could use some help on this one.
I purchased this camera on eBay assuming that the camera was a Boston Camera Co. Hawk-Eye Detective box camera rather than a Blair Hawk-eye as it was listed. I have no idea what to think of the aperture mechanism at the front of the camera.
The aperture dial appears well constructed and the fittings seem to be turn of the century but given the sloppy condition of the assembly on the inside of the camera faceplate I doubt that it was original with the camera.
Several of the screws holding the face of the camera to the camera itself were of different sizes and lengths. This makes me concerned about the authenticity of the camera as well.
I would appreciate it if any of you could provide any insight on what I have here.
Thanks for the help!
It is a Hawk-eye Detective Camera by the "Boston Camera Co" (c1888-1890). The “Boston” cameras had a round viewing port in the back (the round wood plug is usually missing); in contrast to the Blair version which had a removable rectangular panel to view the ground glass. The front does look modified with the addition of a knob and aperture disc – I’ve never seen a version with a knob on the front but it looks old. The curved depression in the front panel has a small shutter-cocking lever which is located on the shutter assembly.
Thanks for your Comment Mr. Niederman. If this was your camera would you remove the after market aperture disc in order to return the camera to it's original condition? or is the camera more valuable/intriguing if I keep it as it is?
I'd leave the camera alone. The addition looks old and should be enjoyed as part of the camera's legacy! - Rob