GENNERT'S PRIZE VIEW CAMERA

G. Gennert, New York 1889-1894

Gennert's Prize View Camera is believed to have been introduced in 1889. Mention was made of Gennert's "new prize Revolving-back cameras" being on display at the Boston Convention and Exhibition in Wilson's Photographic Magazine, Volume XXVI, September 11, 1889. By 1895, the Prize Camera no longer appeared in Gennert's catalogues.

Some examples of the Prize have been seen with a May 7, 1889 patent date, probably in reference to Patent No. 402,711 granted to Erastus B. Barker for a plate repositioning device. Barker held at least a dozen photographic patents, eight of which were assigned to E. & H.T. Anthony & Company of New York. The camera also has a unique hinged two-section front track. Per Gennert's catalogue description, lowering the front section of this track made the camera more useful when using "lenses of a very short focus". Gennert would carry the Prize name forward, and by 1909, it was being applied to a multitude of other Gennert cameras, plate holders and camera stands. The name would last until at least 1921, with the "Prize Improved Studio Camera" marketed that year.

Gennert's cameras are known for their lacquered and French-polished wood finishes and the beautiful draw file patterns adorning their hardware. Accompanied by one Gennert "Double Book" Plate Holder, the Prize Camera featured here in 6-1/2" x 8-1/2" is equipped with a period-correct Prosch Triplex Shutter. Exhibiting a draw file finish as well, the Triplex nicely compliments the Prize's hardware, further enhancing the camera's appeal.

All Gennert models are scarce today, and the Prize Camera is no exception. Despite being made for about five years, they are rarely seen.