Universal Special B

c.1898

Newman & Guardia Ltd.

London

England

Lens:

f3.8, 160 mm Zeiss Planar, Series 1a No.11, iris diaphragm to f64. Serial no. 26726 .

Shutter:

N&G Pneumatic, sector type, spring powered with pneumatic regulation, speeded 1/2 - 1/100. T setting by short pressure on release with shutter set to 1/2 second.

Construction:

Leather covered mahogany body.

Format:

12, 3 ¼" x 4 ¼" plates held in removable changing box, bag type.

Focusing:

Bellows to 22", scale to 1 yard. Double extension.

Attributes:

Two reflecting view-finders, Automatic counter on changing box, Two 'T' spirit levels. Removable lens/shutter panel. Magnification scale marked on base: 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, 1/1. Second scale for telephoto attachment marked 2 ½, 3, 4. Clip to release bellows from front standard to fit telephoto lens.

Movements:

Rise and cross front.

Serial Number:

SB792 .

Notes:

Address on plaque: Newman & Guardia Ltd. 90 & 92 Shaftesbury Avenue. London. W. (1897 - 1909). Patents on boxes: 8329/86, 13857/92.

With:

Changing box for 12 plates, with plate holders and pressure slide. Serial no. 2206.
Focusing screen.

The Planar is not listed as an option on the Special B, this example would have been made to special order. On the base of the camera there are magnification scales, possibly the camera was intended for close-up or copying work. There are also a number of holes and catches around the camera made by the maker for attaching to a stand or similar. As well as the front of the camera being removable the lens panel, carrying the shutter slides out after disengaging a catch. The 'front door' can be held open at about 45° by an arm. The removable panel is present in an illustration in Age of Cameras. The shutter plate is marked Special B Planar.

References & Notes:

N&G Models.; N&G Serial Numbers.;

Further Information:

Holmes, Age of Cameras, p.87.

Newman & Guardia Company Details

Early Photography