Difference between revisions of "Top Camera"
Rebollo fr (talk | contribs) m (linebreak) |
Rebollo fr (talk | contribs) (expanded the description) |
||
Line 6: | Line 6: | ||
The '''Top Camera''' is a Japanese [[subminiature]], launched in 1965 by [[Marusō|Maruso Trading Co.]]<REF> Date: {{SUG}}, item 5150, {{MK}}, p.653. </REF> | The '''Top Camera''' is a Japanese [[subminiature]], launched in 1965 by [[Marusō|Maruso Trading Co.]]<REF> Date: {{SUG}}, item 5150, {{MK}}, p.653. </REF> | ||
− | == | + | == Top Camera == |
− | The Top Camera looks like contemporary 16mm [[subminiature]] models but actually takes ten 14×14mm exposures on 17.5mm rollfilm. | + | 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.<REF> Eye-level finder only: example pictured in {{MK}}, p.653. Dual finder: examples pictured in {{MK}}, p.653, in {{SUG}}, item 5150, and in various websites. </REF> | |
− | + | ||
− | + | 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,<REF> 25mm f/8: {{SUG}}, item 5150. </REF> and the shutter has <u>B</u>ulb and <u>I</u>nstant 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. | The '''Top II''' had no B mode. It was sold as ''Spy 14'' kit with case, film and development tank. | ||
Revision as of 19:36, 3 November 2008
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: