How would you go about duplicating Kodak No.1 Camera's asthetics using equipment commonly available today?

[Hamster]

If you are in for a little experimentation, help me check this configuration, as I do not have my 2x3 and 4x5 Graflex on hand at least for a few weeks, so I can't verify if any of this would work.

I wanted to make some of those circular prints from Kodak No.1/2 cameras from the early days of photography.

The circular prints are 2.5" for the Kodak No.1 (1888) and 3.5" (1889) for the Kodak No.2

From what I gather, the Kodak No.1 uses an Achromatic Meniscus with Focal length about 57 mm with fixed f11 aperture.

I know using only the rear group of a Tessar type approximate an Achromatic Meniscus and can form an image, but I cannot remember if it extends or reduce the effective focal length or what size image circle it would project. I am also not sure how much of the projected image circle is usable.

Maybe the rear group of an 135mm Optar/Raptar would be a good starting point to test? I only have 135mm Optar and 6-3/8" Ilex Paragon.

So if I use a circular mask on film plain and directive positive paper in the 2x3 or 4x5 film holder, I should be able to approximate the aesthetics of Kodak No1/2 prints?

How would you do it with the equipment you have on hand?

I have attached an image to illustrate what I'm getting at, photo credits Daily Mail UK.

 

[MCB18]

Honestly I’d probably just put a circular mask on a 6x6 back for RB67 and call it good.