Houghton Klito Analogue camera

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Description from the seller

IntroductionThe Houghton Klito is a classic British magazine camera that represents a fascinating era of late Victorian and Edwardian photographic innovation. Produced by Houghtons Ltd. (later Houghton-Butcher) in London, this "detective style" box camera was designed for the amateur photographer who sought a more sophisticated alternative to the simple Kodak Brownie. With its handsome leatherette covering and distinctive falling-plate mechanism, the Klito is a cornerstone for collectors of British photographic history, embodying the transition from heavy glass plates to more portable hand-held photography.Key BenefitsHistorical Significance: A prime example of early 20th-century British plate camera design.Unique Mechanism: Features the iconic "falling plate" system (magazine type) which was the pinnacle of rapid-fire photography in its day.Tactile Aesthetics: The textured "morocco grain" leatherette and brass hardware provide a stunning vintage display presence.FeaturesCamera Type: Magazine / Falling Plate Camera.Format: Typically $3 rac{1}{4} imes 4 rac{1}{4}$ inches (Quarter Plate).Viewfinders: Dual "brilliant" finders for both portrait and landscape orientation.Lens: Simple meniscus or rapid rectilinear (typically mounted behind a rotating diaphragm).Aperture: Rotating wheel with multiple waterhouse-style stops.Shutter: Everset-style shutter with "T" (Time) and "I" (Instantaneous) settings.Loading: Rear-loading magazine for multiple metal plate holders.ConditionCosmetic: Rated 3.5/5. The exterior leatherette shows a charming patina consistent with age, with minor wear at the corners and some lightening of the material. The brass fittings show authentic oxidation.Optics: The viewfinders are relatively clear for their age; the taking lens shows some internal dust which is typical for a sealed box design of this vintage.Mechanical: The shutter fires and the aperture selector rotates smoothly. The plate-dropping lever appears functional, though it has not been tested with plates.Note: This camera is sold primarily as a collectible display item. While mechanically responsive, accuracy is not guaranteed given its 100+ year age.What's IncludedHoughton Klito Magazine Camera.Internal metal plate sheaths (located within the rear magazine).Why This Product?The Houghton Klito is more than just a camera; it is a mechanical artifact from a time when photography was a craft of patience and chemistry. Its robust build and "black box" mystery make it a perfect centerpiece for any vintage technology collection or a sophisticated addition to a bookshelf or studio.KeywordsHoughton, Klito, British Camera, Antique Photography, Plate Camera, Falling Plate, Houghtons London, Vintage Box Camera, Edwardian, Collectible Camera, Rare Camera.

IntroductionThe Houghton Klito is a classic British magazine camera that represents a fascinating era of late Victorian and Edwardian photographic innovation. Produced by Houghtons Ltd. (later Houghton-Butcher) in London, this "detective style" box camera was designed for the amateur photographer who sought a more sophisticated alternative to the simple Kodak Brownie. With its handsome leatherette covering and distinctive falling-plate mechanism, the Klito is a cornerstone for collectors of British photographic history, embodying the transition from heavy glass plates to more portable hand-held photography.Key BenefitsHistorical Significance: A prime example of early 20th-century British plate camera design.Unique Mechanism: Features the iconic "falling plate" system (magazine type) which was the pinnacle of rapid-fire photography in its day.Tactile Aesthetics: The textured "morocco grain" leatherette and brass hardware provide a stunning vintage display presence.FeaturesCamera Type: Magazine / Falling Plate Camera.Format: Typically $3 rac{1}{4} imes 4 rac{1}{4}$ inches (Quarter Plate).Viewfinders: Dual "brilliant" finders for both portrait and landscape orientation.Lens: Simple meniscus or rapid rectilinear (typically mounted behind a rotating diaphragm).Aperture: Rotating wheel with multiple waterhouse-style stops.Shutter: Everset-style shutter with "T" (Time) and "I" (Instantaneous) settings.Loading: Rear-loading magazine for multiple metal plate holders.ConditionCosmetic: Rated 3.5/5. The exterior leatherette shows a charming patina consistent with age, with minor wear at the corners and some lightening of the material. The brass fittings show authentic oxidation.Optics: The viewfinders are relatively clear for their age; the taking lens shows some internal dust which is typical for a sealed box design of this vintage.Mechanical: The shutter fires and the aperture selector rotates smoothly. The plate-dropping lever appears functional, though it has not been tested with plates.Note: This camera is sold primarily as a collectible display item. While mechanically responsive, accuracy is not guaranteed given its 100+ year age.What's IncludedHoughton Klito Magazine Camera.Internal metal plate sheaths (located within the rear magazine).Why This Product?The Houghton Klito is more than just a camera; it is a mechanical artifact from a time when photography was a craft of patience and chemistry. Its robust build and "black box" mystery make it a perfect centerpiece for any vintage technology collection or a sophisticated addition to a bookshelf or studio.KeywordsHoughton, Klito, British Camera, Antique Photography, Plate Camera, Falling Plate, Houghtons London, Vintage Box Camera, Edwardian, Collectible Camera, Rare Camera.

Details

Era
1900-2000
Brand
Houghton
Model/type nr
Klito
Physical condition
Very good
Functional condition
Tested and working
Film type
120 / 220
Estimated period
1950-1960
The NetherlandsVerified
207
Objects sold
96.49%
Private

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