Top Camera
See also the Top taking 20mm film, evolution of the Guzzi.
The Top Camera is a Japanese subminiature, launched in 1965 by Maruso Trading Co.[1]
Top Camera
The Top Camera looks like contemporary 16mm subminiature models but actually takes ten 14×14mm exposures on 17.5mm rollfilm. The main body is made of plastic, with metal front and back panels. The hammertone grey finish makes the camera look like it is all-metal.
The back door is removable for film loading, and has a rectangular red window in the middle. The film is advanced by a knob at the top right, as seen by the photographer.
The viewfinder is at the left end. Most cameras have a dual eye- and waist-level finder, using a semi-transparent mirror, whereas others have a simple eye-level finder.[2]
The features of the Top Camera are similar to most Hit-type cameras. The lens is non-focusable and is reported as a 25mm f/8,[3] and the shutter has Bulb and Instant settings, selected by a small lever at the top.
Top Camera II
The Top II had no B mode. It was sold as Spy 14 kit with case, film and development tank.
Notes
Bibliography
- McKeown, James M. and Joan C. McKeown's Price Guide to Antique and Classic Cameras, 12th Edition, 2005-2006. USA, Centennial Photo Service, 2004. ISBN 0-931838-40-1 (hardcover). ISBN 0-931838-41-X (softcover). P.653.
- Pritchard, Michael and St. Denny, Douglas. Spy Cameras — A century of detective and subminiature cameras. London: Classic Collection Publications, 1993. ISBN 1-874485-00-3. P.80.
- Sugiyama, Kōichi (杉山浩一); Naoi, Hiroaki (直井浩明); Bullock, John R. The Collector's Guide to Japanese Cameras. 国産カメラ図鑑 (Kokusan kamera zukan). Tokyo: Asahi Sonorama, 1985. ISBN 4-257-03187-5. Items 5150–1.
The Top is not listed in Kokusan kamera no rekishi.
Links
In English:
- Top and Top II at submin.com [1]
- Top and Top II at subclub.org [2]
- Top in Moshe Bar-El's camera collection
- Top Camera in Nigel Richards' website
- Top Camera at Benbojo's Classic Cameras
- Top Camera among lot no.639 of auction no.3 (May 24, 2003) by Westlicht Photographica Auction
In Japanese: