Mackenstein Fieldcamera 24 x18 cm Large format camera





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Description from the seller
An exquisite and impressive antique Mackenstein large-format plate camera is offered, constructed from high-quality mahogany with elegant brass fittings. This French 'tailboard' camera is built for the generous negative size of 24x18 cm and radiates pure craftsmanship from the early days of photography. This specimen is officially marked and equipped with the authentic, original metal nameplate bearing the early factory location: Rue des Carmes in Paris. This address is directly linked to the legendary early days of the brand.
Rare Original Mackenstein Shutter
What makes this specific model special is the presence of the original, patented Mackenstein roller-blind shutter (curtain shutter). Unlike many cameras from this period that are fitted with external shutters from third parties (such as Thornton-Pickard), this shutter case is fully integrated into the mahogany front of the camera itself. The characteristic brass gear system, the lock bolt, and the adjustment knob on the top are proof of the inventive mechanical craftsmanship for which Établissements Mackenstein was known.
Technical details & Condition:
Manufacturer: Établissements Mackenstein, Paris (with mark and historical address plate "Rue des Carmes") Format: 18x24 cm
Shutter: Original, built-in Mackenstein factory shutter. The shutter responds, operates, and fires cleanly. Note: The exact accuracy and consistency of the shutter speeds have not been electronically verified and should be checked.
Physical condition: Beautiful cosmetic condition. The woodwork retains a deep, warm patina and the brass fittings are still very representative.
Mechanics: The bed movement operates smoothly and freely.
Bellows: The characteristic bellows are fully light-tighttested.
Ground glass: In fine and clear condition. Special note: The original rubber-coated fabric shutter cloth shows light wrinkling (see photos), consistent with the object’s great age.
Carefully review the extensive photo report to form a good personal impression of the exact cosmetic condition of this centerpiece.
An exquisite and impressive antique Mackenstein large-format plate camera is offered, constructed from high-quality mahogany with elegant brass fittings. This French 'tailboard' camera is built for the generous negative size of 24x18 cm and radiates pure craftsmanship from the early days of photography. This specimen is officially marked and equipped with the authentic, original metal nameplate bearing the early factory location: Rue des Carmes in Paris. This address is directly linked to the legendary early days of the brand.
Rare Original Mackenstein Shutter
What makes this specific model special is the presence of the original, patented Mackenstein roller-blind shutter (curtain shutter). Unlike many cameras from this period that are fitted with external shutters from third parties (such as Thornton-Pickard), this shutter case is fully integrated into the mahogany front of the camera itself. The characteristic brass gear system, the lock bolt, and the adjustment knob on the top are proof of the inventive mechanical craftsmanship for which Établissements Mackenstein was known.
Technical details & Condition:
Manufacturer: Établissements Mackenstein, Paris (with mark and historical address plate "Rue des Carmes") Format: 18x24 cm
Shutter: Original, built-in Mackenstein factory shutter. The shutter responds, operates, and fires cleanly. Note: The exact accuracy and consistency of the shutter speeds have not been electronically verified and should be checked.
Physical condition: Beautiful cosmetic condition. The woodwork retains a deep, warm patina and the brass fittings are still very representative.
Mechanics: The bed movement operates smoothly and freely.
Bellows: The characteristic bellows are fully light-tighttested.
Ground glass: In fine and clear condition. Special note: The original rubber-coated fabric shutter cloth shows light wrinkling (see photos), consistent with the object’s great age.
Carefully review the extensive photo report to form a good personal impression of the exact cosmetic condition of this centerpiece.
