Posted 14 years ago
bbortfeld
(1 item)
I found this old Wollensak camera a while back. I love how it looks and thought it was a nice addition to my photograph collection. BUT I do not know much about the camera.
Old Wollensak Wooden Camera with Bellows | ||
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Nice looking camera. Is the Wollensak name on the camera or only the lens? Any other names of the camera itself?
I checked the camera. The only markings are on the lens assembly. It does have two patent dates on the lens - in 1900 & 1901. I'll post more photos when I get a chance. Bob
Based on the brass hardware design at the bottom of the front standard, the camera was made by the Seneca Camera Company (Rochester, NY). The specific model number would have been on a celluloid label underneath the brass piece (appearing in the circular cut-out), but the maker's badge is missing.
These Seneca folding plate cameras were made from (circa) 1907 to the 1920s. It looks like the focusing rail can extend beyond the bed; making this a double-extension bellows design.
Otherwise, Wollensak was a maker of lenses and shutters.