Help needed to identify a plate camera

[Joao]

I am trying to identify the model of what remains of this British Houghton’s plate folding camera. The labels were partially erased and the lens/shutter combo is missing.
Can someone help me ? Any information will be much appreciated.
Photos here
http://HoughtonPlateCamera.notlong.com
Thank you in advance
Joao

 

[L David Tomei]

As far as I know, the Folding Klito models were made in a number of sizes for over a decade. Numbers 5 and 7 were 4 1/4" x 3 1/4" and had the double extensions. What other information are you searching?

 

[Joao]

Thank you !
I am specifically looking for:
1- The original shutter/lens specifications - in order to find a replacement (or another lens with similar focal lenght).
2- A suitable film holder (plate) for this camera (either original or one that fits the camera)
I am not sure if there was an extension in my camera; and it is hard to find a comprehensive description of those Klito Folding cameras. If you know any link, I would be grateful.
Best regards
Joao

 

[L David Tomei]

Hello Joao. These cameras were basically platforms for a variety of lens-shutter combinations for well over a decade following their introduction some time around 1910. If you google "houghton folding klito" you'll find some descriptions and images of cameras with different lens stands as well as shutter-lenses, and some other design variations all on the basic platform. Although I have one it has been packed away and I do not have any info. I will pm you if I can dig some details up. Good luck. David

 

[Joao]

David, I've googled as you said and I found this
http://www.woodandbrass.co.uk/detail.php?cat_num=0146
The box, rails and bellows are similar to the ones in my camera; and no extension for the bellows.
Your sugestion was most useful
Thanks again
Joao

 

[chippy]

the name plate i should think puts in the 1904-1926 time frame, they usually say these were made from about 1909-1910 onwards but they made them earlier than that, for a while some of these (Klito) were german imports as well (sold as a houghton klito), then apparently the same models were made in london (after about 1910-12).

this one is a very basic model, single extension, no rise and fall, and doesnt have a cast front standard U support that most folding plate cameras you see would have, its a similar equipped camera to say, voigtlander's earliest VAG (1925) that didnt have a cast U front standard either

i think it might be easier to find a another complete camera than it would be to find a lens, shutter and film holders and get this one back to original


cheers
chippy

 

[Joao]

Thank you for the useful information, it is not easy to find much about these models.

If another shutter/lens combo fits, I will use them - as I can change the lenght of the lens-plate distance, ithat may be quite easy to put it at worrk. At least I will try.
I agree that it will be an easier task to buy a complete camera.
Regards
Joao

 

[L David Tomei]

From a quick look at various models, a 150-165mm (5.5 inch) lens, e.g. Rectimat Symetrical lens, Beck Symmetrical, Ensign Anastigmat, Ensign symmetrical, Baush & lomb "automat" shutter, No. 4 Beck Symmetrical, Bush Anastigmat, Ensign Anastigmat, Aldis f/7.7 140mm. The shutters can be found easily including NOS in the box, such as the ebay #280942462232 for a 39mm opening if that's what you have.

I understand the desire just to get this old camera operational again even though it isn't particularly valuable. I've spent time repairing and restoring Argus C3's though I could have just bought a better one for $15. Buona fortuna