Posted 14 years ago
Newcomer01
(1 item)
This is a circa 1910 Kodak camera, passed down through the generations to myself. I believe it was originally in the possession of my Great Grandfather, And passed down from there on to myself. This is a beautiful camera, Complete with all extras, and , in my opinion, in perfect working order. I have more pics available upon request. What I do ask is if any body has any information on this unit I would be most appreciated. I do know it is a Kodak, circa 1910, wood box with leather covering, bellows type with rotating frame plate. It has the original Graphic film plate adapter plate, US Patent# 2,056,144. It also has a bearing patent (no#) but dated Jan 18, 1910. The horizontal/vertical leveler, optical sight, shutter, everything works. No tears in the bellows. This is a complete and working order camera. I had no idea my Dad had carried this unit for all these years (he passed away in 1999) until my Mom passed it to me last week. I do not know the exact model of this camera, I'm hoping with pics provided someone out there will. Until then, she's locked up nice and tight.
This camera was made by the Conley Camera Company, Rochester, MN. The original Conley Safety shutter and polished wood lens board were replaced at some point with the Kodak Ball Bearing shutter. The body was designed to use different lenses and shutters. So ... the original Conley shutter and lens board might still be around someplace. Otherwise, Conley folding plate cameras were quite popular and many versions of this classic American style were made by the company. Your camera appears to be one of the "Long Focus" models; and looks very much like Model XV, but difficult to tell. The bellows is normally red leather, but since these were fragile, it's not uncommon to find black replacement bellows. This particular camera also has the heavier leather body covering that does not have the traditional pebbling. Collectors refer to this style as "bear skin." Personally I like the bear skin look. Otherwise, the Graphic adapter was something purchased for the camera. It is not an original accessory, but made to adapt glass plate cameras to use film (glass was very heavy and easily broke). As such, film adapters such as the Graphic became popular. Enjoy!
To rniederman, thank you for the info. I know close to nothing about cameras, let alone antique ones. My ultimate goal is to see my camera in a museum, how does one go about this process? What is the best avenue to get it appraised? You obviously know these types of camera, so my guess is you'd know the answers to my questions. Your help and insight is most appreciated!
As far as value, Conley cameras are somewhat common and not historically important. Your camera's current estimated value based on the condition in the pictures (replaced shutter and lensboard, black bellows, and wear to the outer body leather) is approximately $50 - $65(ish). Otherwise, the camera is not considered a museum piece unless it was used by a famous photographer or made a landmark image. My suggestion is to enjoy it as a family heirloom!