Tougodo box-shaped cameras
The Tougo cameras were introduced by Tougodo in 1930.[1] The first models were box cameras, using the no-need-darkroom process. It is said that three film sizes were available: size A (3.5×5.5cm), size B (5×7cm) and size C (28×40mm).[2] Another source says that model A cost ¥1, model B cost ¥2 and model C cost ¥3, which seems somewhat contradictory.[3]
The simpler Tougo models have a single brilliant finder at the top, no diaphragm and Bulb exposure only. Depending on the camera, the Tougodo trademark is simply stamped in the paper covering of the front plate, or the words TOUGŌ CAMERA or simply TOUGŌ are inscribed above the lens. The Mikasa-Go is a simple model; it has the words TOUGŌ CAMERA and MIKASA-GO around the lens.[4] The Hit-Go is a more elaborate camera, with two brilliant finders, Bulb and Instant settings and three aperture settings, numbered 1, 2, 3; it has the words TOUGŌ and HITGO above the lens, together with the logo of Tougodo.[5]
Notes
Bibliography
- Lewis, Gordon, ed. The History of the Japanese Camera. Rochester, N.Y.: George Eastman House, International Museum of Photography & Film, 1991. ISBN 0-935398-17-1 (paper), 0-935398-16-3 (hard). P.43.
- 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.931.
- 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 4074–6.
Links
In Japanese:
