The Standard, also called the A, was one of the first N&G cameras. It is a detective or magazine camera and was the simplest of the Universal series produced by N&G. The Universal cameras proved very popular during the 1890s and early 1900s. They incorporated a very accurate and well made shutter and a removable changing box. Both the subject of N&G patents.

The Standard went through a number of minor modifications: spirit levels were added, first circular in 1895, then 'T' levels. The first cameras had a celluloid focusing screen, this was replaced by glass after about a year. The small lens door was sprung mounted in 1895. Other modifications which affected the Special B were probably not included on the Standard. The Standard was produced until around 1903, it was also available in 5" x 4" size.

This example was made probably around 1895 as it has the sprung door feature. It could not have been made later than this as N&G changed to a Ltd company during 1896. The price was £12.12.0.