A superb antique 'Sanderson Tropical' hand and stand camera by George Houghton of London in the British half plate (6½ x 4¾") format. This particular model was introduced in 1904 and was a superbly crafted piece of equipment, made with great attention to detail and using only the finest quality of materials available - capable of withstanding the extreme conditions of tropical countries, where heat, humidity and insects might otherwise destroy conventional models. This example is fitted with Houghton's own 'Ensign' Anastigmat Series IV f 4.8 lens, housed within a Koilos mechanical shutter with three-blade diaphragm delivering speeds from 1 second down to 1/300 second, in additional to the B & T settings. Bellows extension is by rack and pinion and the ground glass focusing screen incorporates a hinged cover and leather hood to limit the ingress of light. There is an Ivorine (early celluloid) makers plate to the lens board and a brass plate enscribed 'Tropical Model' beneath the lens. The length, with bellows extended, is 50cm and the height 22cm. Also included is a period focusing hood and one double dark slide plate holder, as shown.

Condition: For the most part this camera survives in wonderful condition. The teak retains its original French Polish with beautiful colour and shine. The brass components are excellent, protected by their original lacquer, which is largely unblemished. The bellows are superb, light-tight and show very little sign of wear. The ground glass screen is very good. All makers plates are present. The lens optics are very good, free from chips, cracks, haze and fungus and only with a few light cleaning marks. There is some paint loss on the lens barrel, consistent with age and use. The iris functions correctly. The Koilos shutter functions correctly but has not been checked for accuracy and appears to be slightly sluggish, likely through lack of use - see video. The plate holder is in good condition, not original to this camera but a close fit. The only notable defects are as follows: (1) The swing out viewfinder is missing to the front left hand side; (2) There is an old split/glued repair to the underside of the base plate (as arrowed), which is structurally sound and hidden from view; (3) the spirit level is dry. Overall, this is an extremely good example of this much-sought after camera.

Shipping: Overseas buyers are very welcome - please use the contact form to request a shipping quotation.