1904 Ernemann Klapp Tropical

Tropical cameras were made for the wet muggy weather of the Tropics where conventional leather covered cameras would mildew.  They are heavily prized today for their beautiful wood and workmanship.

This is 1904 Ernemann Tropical Klapp camera is 10x15 cm format.  It is very ingeniously designed to collapse into a tidy traveling size.  It's focal plane shutter has a marked  high speed of 1/2500th -- though I doubt if it obtains it.   Lens is a 165/4.5 Zeiss Tessar in helical focusing mount.  Lens movement is limited to a rising front.    The amazing folding leather focusing hood would make even modern cameras proud.   It was made in Dresden, a major pre-war German photographic center. 

The camera front in closed position.   The "Ernemann" nametag and cabinet work on the top.

      

The shutter speed focal plane shutter assembly.     Top of the camera in collapsed position.  Note finder.

          

Camera top, viewfinder  and bellows in taking position.   Note bellows struts.

  

Lens in close focus position showing helical, in rise position.     Camera back in closed position.

   

Ingenious leather focusing hood in partially open, and fully open position.

Revised: November 25, 2003 .  Copyright � 1998-2002  Stephen Gandy. All rights reserved.    This means you may NOT copy and re-use the text or the pictures in ANY other internet or printed publication of ANY kind.  Information in this document is subject to change without notice.  Other products and companies referred to herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies or mark holders.