The Contessa-Nettel folding plate camera, manufactured in Stuttgart, Germany, during the early 1920s, represents the high watermark of precision before the company merged to become part of Zeiss Ikon in 1926. These cameras were the choice of serious photographers and explorers, known for their exceptionally rigid construction and the use of world-class optics. This specific 9x12 folding model, featuring a high-quality Hugo Meyer lens, is a beautiful example of the mechanical transition between the early large-format era and the more portable folding revolution, prized today for its historical significance and industrial charm. KEY FEATURES Manual pull-out lens standard with precise dual-track focusing rails High-quality bellows in good visual condition for its age Dual composition system: rotatable brilliant finder and folding wire iconometer (frame finder) Robust wood and metal body construction with textured leatherette Integrated tripod mount for studio or landscape use Distinctive Contessa-Nettel embossed logo on the outer leather panel TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Camera Type: Folding Plate Camera Lens: Hugo Meyer & Co. Goerlitz Aristostigmat f:6.8/120mm Shutter: Compur shutter with speeds from 1 to 1/200 second plus T and B Aperture range: f/6.8 to f/36 Format: 9x12cm plate format Manufacturer: Contessa-Nettel, Stuttgart, Germany CONDITION REPORT Cosmetic: Fair vintage condition. The leatherette shows significant age-related wear and several oxidation spots (Zeiss bumps) under the leather on the front panel as seen in the photos. Optics: The Hugo Meyer lens shows some internal haze and dust consistent with a century of age; no major scratches observed. Mechanics: Shutter fires at various speeds, though accuracy cannot be guaranteed; the manual extension and focusing rails operate correctly. Test status: This item is sold strictly as a collectible or display piece; it has not been tested with plates or film. WHATS INCLUDED Contessa-Nettel folding plate camera Integrated leather carrying handle WHY BUY THIS ITEM A substantial piece of early 20th-century German history that serves as a stunning display piece, featuring the highly regarded Aristostigmat lens by Hugo Meyer. KEYWORDS Contessa-Nettel, Stuttgart, Hugo Meyer, Aristostigmat, Folding Camera, Plate Camera, 9x12, Compur, German Engineering, Vintage Photography, 1920s, Zeiss Ikon History