K.S. Fabrik
K.S. Fabrik seems to be the name of a Japanese shutter maker, that is sometimes mistaken for a camera maker.
A shutter maker
According to McKeown, K.S. Fabrik is the name of a Japanese company related to Proud. Two cameras are attributed to K.S. Fabrik, both 4.5×6 folders: the Semi Lucky and Semi Rosen.[1] However the same source also attributes the Semi Rosen to Proud, and it is well established that the Semi Lucky was made by Fujimoto.
The cameras listed in McKeown under K.S. Fabrik share the same Hildar Anastigmat f:4.5 lens and Presto or Rapid-Presto shutter. A similar Rapid-Presto shutter also appears on a Cine Vero camera attributed to Kyoto Precision Mfg. On all these cameras, the shutter plate is written PRESTO at the top and K.S. FABRIK at the bottom. The speed rim is sometimes engraved RAPID-PRESTO.[2] Thus it seems that K.S. Fabrik is only the name of the company producing the Rapid-Presto shutter.
Trivia around the K.S. name
There are other occurrences of a similar name, that are maybe completely unrelated. An ever ready case for a Semi Prince has been observed with the marking K.S.U. embossed in the back. A K.S. logo has also been observed on an example of the Vero Four. The postwar Sumida company that followed the prewar Proud company also used a KSK logo, whose meaning is unknown.
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). Pp. 572, 592 and 804.
