Vintage Cinema Cameras: Debrie GV and Leica 1 Up for Auction

Vintage Cinema Cameras: Debrie GV and Leica 1 Up for Auction

A vintage cinema camera from the late 1920s is set to be auctioned off and could potentially sell for up to £7,000 ($9,366). The Debrie GV (Grande Vitesse) camera, equipped with a rotating shutter, is estimated to date back to around 1928. This rare piece comes in its original leather carry case and is expected to fetch between £5,000 ($6,691) and £7,000 ($9,366) at Ewbank's auction.

In addition to the Debrie camera, a Leica 1 (Model A) - the first commercially successful 35mm camera in the world - is also up for auction with an estimated price range of $200 to $400. Introduced at the Leipzig Spring Trade Fair in 1925, the Leica 1 revolutionized photography by introducing a compact and durable design with a fixed collapsible 50mm f/3.5 Elmar lens. This early model lacks the typical serial numbers on both the body and lens, showcasing its historical significance.

The Leica (Model A) significantly reduced the time between shots to just one second, enabling photographers to capture dynamic images on the move like never before. On the other hand, the Debrie camera, identified as Serie I. No. 266, Prisme, features two dials on the back for adjusting images per second and monitoring film length. It is equipped with a rare 2ins Dallmeyer Septac Anastigmat lens from 1941, adding to its appeal among collectors.

With its unique features and historical value, the Debrie camera is a sought-after item that captures the essence of early cinema technology. The upcoming auction presents a rare opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to acquire these iconic pieces of photographic history.