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]
Description
The Top Camera looks like contemporary 16mm subminiature models but actually takes ten 14×14mm exposures on 17.5mm rollfilm.
Like Hit-type cameras it has a non-focusable f8/25mm lens and a shutter with bulb and instant settings.
Variations
Top Camera
One version has a dual eye- and waist-level finder instead of a simple eye-level finder.
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: