Antique Century Mod. 22 Bellows Camera in Excellent Condition. USA, Circa 1900

This fantastic bellows camera, ancient and in good condition, is a real museum piece made in the late 19th century (circa 1900) in Rochester, USA. It is a Century Model 22 camera, a classic machine full of beauty. The camera is located inside a square box, compact and covered outside by black faux leather. When we open the box we will find the flexible reddish brown bellows in amazingly good condition. The camera also shows a series of golden brass lacquered component parts, very well preserved and fully functional. At the front of the bellows we can see the structure containing the lens. It bears a series of fine decals with the manufacturers name, CENTURY CAMERA CO., standing out. This company was founded in 1900 by three former employees of the Rochester Optical Co. who were disappointed with problems resulting from the merger of the 5 Rochester companies in late 1899. The great quality of Century cameras was the reason for the company obtaining a 25% market share of the plate camera manufacturing business. In 1903 Eastmann bought the company and in 1908 this changed its name for Century Camera Division, Eastman Kodak Co. The market name Century continued to exist until 1920. In this camera we can see the market name printed in beautiful black lettering on a bone-colored plate located at the base. All this cameras decals and plates are in excellent condition, and together with the shiny golden brass and the warm mahogany wood make up a very attractive piece. The cameras shutter button is in working order, and this detail adds to this magnificent antique pieces interest. Its undeniable quality and classic beauty turn this Century camera into an exclusive piece, a real find for every seasoned collector. Measurements (Open): Depth 7.8 in / 20 cm. Height: 5.9 in / 15 cm.