Photographica Pages

An online guide to collectable cameras and related stuff

Blair Hawk-Eye Detective Camera

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Both the Hawk-Eye name and the camera were introduced in 1888 by the Boston Camera Company. Boston Camera was purchased by the Blair Camera Company in 1890, and the Hawk-Eye camera continued in production relatively unchanged. This is the first Blair version of the camera in a natural wood finish. There were several design changes in later models including a leather covering and a number of lens options, but all used internal bellows for focusing. While designed to carry up to three double-sided 4x5 dry plate holders, this particular camera also carries an optional Eastman roll film holder. The natural wood versions are rarely seen anymore. The later models and leather-covered versions still show up occasionally.

Text and photos courtesy of Milan Zahorcak.