Hope (4.5×6)

The Hope is a Japanese 4.5×6 folding camera, probably dating from the late 1930s. It is said that it was made by a company called G.H. Works.

Only one example of the camera has been observed so far (and one of the case). The name G.H. WORKS is indeed engraved in the standing leg.

Description

The Hope is a vertical folder with the advance knob on the side opposite the tubular optical finder. The back is hinged to the left and contains two uncovered red windows. The back latch is covered by a handle. The back leather is embossed HOPE.

The lens is a 75/6.3, engraved G.H. ANASTIGMAT HOPE F=75 MM 1:6.3. The shutter seems to have four speed settings: B, 25, 50, 100. The shutter plate has an octogonal drawing and is marked HOPE at the top. The aperture scale is at the bottom and goes from 6.3 to 22.

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. 344.

The Geltoflex is not listed in Kokusan kamera no rekishi.