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]
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 panel is removable for film loading, and has a rectangular red window in the middle. It is retained by a latch on the right, as seen by the photographer. The film is advanced by a knob at the top right.
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 Top Camera has simple features, like most Hit-type cameras. The lens is placed behind a square aperture in the middle of the front plate. It is non-focusable, and is reported as a 25mm f/8.[3] The shutter has Bulb and Instant settings, selected by a small lever at the top. It is self-cocking, and is tripped by a lever at the right end of the front plate.
The camera is sometimes found in its original case, in red and cream colours, inscribed TOP CAMERA on the cover. It often comes with a vinyl case, which is sometimes black or cream-coloured. The camera often has a mere cord attached to a strap lug at the right end.
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: