Antique Graflex Auto Graflex Reflex Camera. USA, Circa 1910

This is an iconic piece that became very popular amongst photojournalist in the early 20th century. The camera that we can see in the images was made in the early 20th century (circa 1910) and remains wonderfully preserved. It comes in its original storing case, also in good condition, together with two metal cases to charge the plates. Though it is not currently in working order, this is an outstanding piece that any collector will love to own. The camera bears two identification plates: one indicates the curtain-aperture numbers and manufacturers data (FOLMER & SWING DIVISION EASTMAN KODAK CO.) and the other shows the name of the distributor in London (Sands., Hunter & Co.).The camera itself is made up of a rigid black-leather-covered frame with a foldable leather piece at the top. This piece hides the mirror system that makes it possible to view the object to be portrayed with precision (this feature defines reflex-type cameras). It also mounts several metal component parts to open and close the frame. The lens is mounted in a mobile metal element with a leather bellows; it bears the inscription DALLMEYER SERRAC and the serial number Nº 118004 printed in white lettering. The plate chargers are also market with the manufacturers name and camera model (Graflex). Inside the storing case we find a printed label with the distributors signature printed in gold: Sands. (Sandersons), Hunter & Co. All the lovers of photo-related antiques will find a treasure in this outstanding and historic Kodak Auto Graflex camera. Medidas: Fondo: 7.4 in / 19 cm. Alto: 12.7 in / 32,5 cm.Graflex Cameras History Graflex cameras are sigle-lens réflex cameras that started being produced in New York in 1898 by the Folmer & Schwing Manufacturing Company. The company was founded in 1887 by William F. Folmer and William E. Schwing to manufacture gas light fixtures, chandeliers, bicycles and eventually cameras. In 1909 George Eastman acquired the firm and moved it to Rochester NY as the Folmer & Schwing Division Eastman Kodak Company. In 1926, Kodak was forced to divest itself of the division, which was spun off forming a new company, the Folmer Graflex Corporation, which changed its name to Graflex Inc in 1946. The last Graflex camera was built in 1963. The Graflex was considered the quintessential press camera. The Speed Graphic was manufactured for over 60 years, and was used by most of the photojournalists in the 1st half of the 20th century.