Bon Ton Ferrotype Camera

Built in an American Optical Co. or E. & H.T. Anthony Co. Factory
New York, NY
ca. 1880s

Ex Collection Michael Kramer

Beginning In the early 1870s, American camera manufacturers began making four-tube Bon Ton cameras as a way to increase efficiency and reduce the costs of making multiple photographs. This camera was designed for making four tintype bon ton images simultaneously on a 5” x 7” plate. This wonderful Four-Tube Bon Ton camera has its original wooden septum and four matched lenses, each marked S.M. Co.

The camera does not have a maker’s badge, and Originally, I thought it was made by the Scovill Manufacturing Co. since it has S.M. Co. lenses. However, in speaking with noted camera historian, Rob Niederman, he clarified that it was likely built in either an American Optical Co. or E. & H.T. Anthony Co. factory. The following is Rob’s rationale:

• Entire body has a normal wood finish … no ebonized wood parts (except for lens shadow box).

• Sophisticated rear standard and focusing mechanics that are similar to bigger studio cameras.

• Two focusing guide strips on top of the rear rails. Rear assembly has extra wood blocks for the guide strips.

• Body is wider than the bed/focusing rails.

• Although the camera appears to be unmarked, it is highly probable that it was constructed in an American Optical Co. or E. & H.T. Anthony factory. Front standard has a curved design at the bottom where it meets the rails. That is an AOC or Anthony design. Camera dates to the 1880s.

I sincerely appreciate Rob’s outstanding research and help in properly attributing this camera’s origin.