Photographica Pages

An online guide to collectable cameras and related stuff

Simmon Combat Camera PH-501

The Combat Camera PH-501 was the first camera produced by Simmon Brothers. It was designed to accept 2-1/4 x 3-1/4 filmpacks only, and was produced for the Army Signal Corp. Production began in November 1944, and was very limited, with an estimated production of less than 200 units.

The body was cast magnesium, which made it light, and the lack of a bellows made it suited for use in the tropics and to handle rough treatment. The shutter was a focal plane design. The odd viewfinder folded down to protect the normal lens when not in use. In addition to the standard 101/4.5 Wollensak Velostigmat, a 225/6.3 Ilex Paragon was also provided.

This camera appears to be the insiration for the Omega 120 which followed. Production ended in 1945 after the war was over.

The 225/6.3 Ilex Paragon.