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Here’s a beautifully made 1/4 plate plate view camera made by J.T. Chapman in Manchester, England at some point in the late 1870’s. The serial number on the Dallmeyer 5 x 4 Rapid Rectilinear lens dates it to 1879, so I’m assuming the camera was manufactured at roughly the same time, if not earlier. Small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, yet identical in fit and finish to the largest studio cameras, this tiny Chapman camera a marvel of miniaturization.
The camera comes in its original leather carrying case, with its original double-slide plate holders. Also included are several unused glass slides, but they’re obviously included for historical purposes only. They’re about 140 years beyond their useful life.
Condition of everything is excellent. Original leather bellows are clean and supple (see pictures); original ground glass back is clean and undamaged; Dallmeyer lens has no damage, no fungus, no separation. The aperture adjustment on the lens is working properly. All of the plate holders work properly, and the slide that retains them moves easily in and out of the camera back. Rack and pinion focusing that extends the camera bed is working properly. Manufacturer’s tag is original and completely intact, and the printing is crisp and clear.
The camera folds up neatly and looks beautiful from any angle.
Carrying case is in good condition given its age and utility. Signs of wear, as you can see, but the leather is sturdy and the stitching is secure.
Overall, an excellent, completely original, and eminently collectible 1/4 plate English camera that has not been repaired, rebuilt, refinished or otherwise “glammed up.”
Please review the pictures and consider them an integral part of the description.
When folded shut, the camera measures just 5 1/2″ x 5 1/2″ x 2 1/2″. With camera and accessories inside, the case measures 12″ x 5″ x 7″. Shipping weight approximately 9 lb.
That’s about it. I’ll be happy to ship the camera almost anywhere in the world, but auction participants with hidden feedback, or with no prior feedback, should contact me before placing a bid.
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Category: Cameras and Photo:Vintage Movie and Photography:Vintage Cameras:Folding Cameras
Location: Chapel Hill, North Carolina