Watson's Detective Camera was manufactured by W. Watson & sons from 1884 to approximately 1890. Advertised as being perfectly efficient and perfectly unobtrusive. Designed to look like a dispatch box with leather covering. A bellows camera is neatly placed inside with only an opening for the lens, viewer and trigger. The bellows camera could be removed and used as a regular camera. A reflector in the lid allows the operator to see what is on the plate during exposure. Watson's detective camera was made in to sizes a quarter plate 4 1/4 x 3 1/4 inch or a 5 x 4 inch size. It was able to hold six plates. The lens was a rapid rectilinear with an instantaneous shutter. The quarter plate camera sold for £10 10s 0d and £12 10s for the 5 x 4 size. Eastman's roll film holder was adaptable to this camera.

CLICK HERE for a list of Watson & Sons cameras.


Historic Camera Value and Rating - Estimating Overall Worth (about)

# 1353
2015-06-09 16:45:53