For Sale FS: 5x7 Cycle Poco Camera w/Gundlach Lens and 5 Plate Holders $150

[Jon Shiu]

This nice looking mahogany camera was made somewhere in the mid 1890's to early 1900's, a period where bicycling and photography were very popular. The camera is compact and lightweight, 3 lbs. with lens. The camera can be hand held and also has two tripod mounting sockets. It originally came with a case to strap under the top tube of a safety bicycle. Made by the Rochester Camera Mfg. Co., Rochester NY. This one was sold by J. H. Edwards, 65 College St, Buffalo, NY.

The camera is in good working order and I have cleaned and repaired as needed. Bellows are in good shape, light tight and have a small glue repair where there was a worn spot. The mahogany wood looks very nice and there is a cool viewfinder with groundglass that I put a new mirror in.

The lens is made by the Gundlach Optical Co and is marked "5x7 SYM" and a "7", indicating a 7 inch focal length. The glass is clear and in good condition. There is some minor edge separation in both front and back elements (see photo). The aperture is in good shape and is f8-f45. The shutter works well and I will include an air bulb and tube.

The 5 double sided plate holders are nicely constructed with finger joints and look to be in very good condition, but could use a little cleaning. One darkslide is warped.

An interesting historical piece. Let me know if any questions, or if you want to see more photos.
$150 plus shipping. Paypal accepted.

Jon

 

[nhemann]

Hi Jon, I'm unfamiliar with this camera overall - is there any movement in the front at all or was it designed as a "point and shoot" for the roving 5x7 crowd? Is there a tripod mount on it as well?
neil

 

[Jon Shiu]

It can be used as a point and shoot, with the viewfinder and scale focusing. Or can be used as a view camera with ground glass focusing. The front standard has rise/fall and shift movements. There are tripod mounts for both landscape and portrait orientations.

Jon

 

[nhemann]

Damnit, that had the opposite effect of dissuading me

And I just realized I should read more closely as all questions were answered already...that kind of morning.

Thanks

 

[Jon Shiu]

I should add that the plate holders are somewhat larger than normal film holder. I think the plates would be 130mm x 180mm. So modern 5x7 film holders wouldn't work with this camera.

I believe there are metal film sheaths that work with plate holders, also mat board may work as an insert.

Jon

 

[Jon Shiu]

Upon further research, there are adapters for plate holders that will hold 5x7 film. I believe they are called "5x7 film sheaths".

Jon

 

[nhemann]

i found a few on ebay, I'm sold Jon, PM me your info and we can get it all straight.

 

[Jon Shiu]

sold