Posted 12 years ago
debbiet
(25 items)
Does anyone know anything about this type of camera. Its been in my family or a long time. ..........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
This is more than likely a Kodak Vest Pocket Autographic Special. It was introduced in 1915 and discontinued late 1926. The picture size was 1-5/8 x 2-1/2 inches on 127 rollfilm. If you post a picture of the front showing the lens and shutter, I can narrow down the date.
The autographic feature was invented by Henry Gaisman and appeared on many of Kodak's rollfilm cameras. The intent was for information to be 'written' on the film (through the hinged flap on the camera back) at the time the picture was taken with a fancy metal stylus. In summary, a somewhat common camera often found in excellent condition with the small stylus.
Thank you so much
The camera has an f7.7 Anastigmat lens (non-focusing). This was the most popular variation offered from April 1916 to September 1926. Hmmm ... it didn't narrow down the dates that much. BTW, the front extends via a bellows and struts when you pull forward on the two folded metal 'tabs' on either side of the front.
I don't have a stylus unless its attached to the camera and I don't see it.
The stylus is often lost. It would sit in the small pair of looped metal pieces at the top of the autographic door. The longer conical shaped loop is where the pointed end of the stylus sits. It's a distinctive item not just a straight piece of pointed metal. It is silvery in color with a spiral up the body and a small 'ball' at the top.
There is a small leg in the front plate which folds down when the bellows are extended, and engraved on the leg will be a serial number (I think). This might enable a more accurate dating. The flap over the Autographic window is of the "Second type," used first in 1916 and discontinued in favout of the "Third type" some time in the 1920s.
Thank you gluepot