This Detective Camera is dated circa 1888. This black leather covered camera is numbered 356 and carries the 130 Fulton Street New York address. This would seem to indicate an early model , certainly -pre-dating the 1893 move by Abner Tisdell to Scranton, Pa.
What is very significant about this particular camera , is that it is for 4" x 5" plates and not the usual 3.25" x 4.25" (quarter plate size) that is most frequently mentioned in the usual reference sources. In fact I can find no reference at all to this 4" x 5" plate size in any of the usual sources. While obviously not unique, this could be a major rarity. The lens is marked "Tisdell & Whittelsey - special 4 x 5 - 1644 Gundlach Optical Co. Rochester , N.Y. "
This model has internal tapered, cloth covered bellows and comes with the original five plate holder, internal focusing screen, five Waterhouse stops and a detachable internal viewfinder. The spring loaded internal shutter is working very well. The exterior "box" measures 7" x 7" x 12,5". The black leather covering shows very little sign of wear, although there is a crack in the leather at the bottom (it is just a sign and it doesnt affect any of the leather botom case). The top carrying handle seems to be replaced but overall a very fine example in excellent condition .
Recent recorded sale on April 1988 for USDoll. 3000 also made with leather covering

Please don't hesitate to contact me if you require any further information or photos , so you are certain to receive what is expected. !!! I accept most methods of payments including : EURO, USDollars by personal cheque drawn on a foreign Bank account, but will be held for the necessary period, cashier's cheques alternatively Bidpay or Bank transfer !! Thank you for looking...and in case good luck for your bid !!