Eastman M.B.
The Eastman M.B. matchbox camera, also known as the Camera "X", is a spy camera made by Kodak at the end of World War II, for use by the Secret Service.[1]
The camera takes up to 34 exposures in ½×½″ size on a 2ft strip of 16mm film.[2] The internals are made of bakelite, and are slid inside a metal outer casing.[1] The film is advanced by a wheel slightly protruding on the camera's smaller side.
The Tessar 25mm f/5 fixed-focus lens is on the front side, and has two aperture settings: full or f/8.[1] The shutter has Bulb or instant settings.[1]
It seems that a Japanese copy was made during World War II, see Japanese matchbox camera.
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.509.
- 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.140.
