Cameras/Wollensak Camera
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Question
Could you please tell me what my grandfather's old camera is worth? I've had different answers. It is a Wollensak Model 43 8mm with instructions and hard leather case. I'm assuming it still works because it still runs but I've never put film in it. Thank you.
Hello Jeanette,
I apologize for the delay in answering, but it's not my fault! I duly informed AllExperts that I would be on vacation for ten days, yet they forgot to disable my account! I just happened to gain access to a computer this afternoon (I'm in Anaheim, visitng Disneyland, with the family!), mostly to catch up on e-mail, and discovered you had left a question for me! So no further delays, although I'm still on vacation, here's an answer for you...
The Wollensak Model 43 is a very common amateur's 8mm movie camera from the late 1950's and early 1960's. I'm afraid it's a bit of a "white elephant", practically worthless. A truly excellent example might bring about $25 today.
Best wishes,
David Silver
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David Silver
Expertise
I'm an expert on all types of antique, classic, and contemporary cameras, as well as the general history of photography. Everything from ancient box cameras to modern single-lens-reflex; from simple Kodaks to sophisticated Leica and Nikon; from glass plates and roll film to movie and 35mm. I can identify and appraise them, explain how they work, and offer insights on their restoration and care. I can also provide historical background on vintage cameras and equipment, and guidelines on their purchase and sale.
Experience
I've been a professional photographer and a student of the history of photography for nearly 30 years. During that time my collection of vintage cameras and photographic paraphernalia has grown beyond 2000 significant pieces. I've published nearly 70 articles in the field, including 16 in the popular "Buying Classic Cameras" series for PHOTO SHOPPER MAGAZINE from 1995 to 1997, I'm currently a contributing editor for CAMERA SHOPPER MAGAZINE and McKEOWN'S PRICE GUIDE TO ANTIQUE AND CLASSIC CAMERAS, and I've written numerous entries for WORLD BOOK ENCYCLOPEDIA. Portions of my collection have been displayed in museums and special exhibits in the past two decades, and many of the items were photographed as illustrations for books. In 1985 I founded the International Photographic Historical Organization (InPHO), which eventually evolved into its intended purpose as the best first resource for information on the history of photography. I'm also a founding member of several e-mail forums dedicated to specialized areas of photography, and I'm the moderator of the Internet Directory of Camera Collectors (IDCC), which remains the largest and most successful such group in the world. For more information about the International Photographic Historical Organization and its many services, please visit its web pages at:
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