Vintage hand-crank Bell & Howell camera, old retro USA device

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

Vintage Bell & Howell camera, crank model, as shown in the picture. The body features a dark gray granulated finish, typical of 1950s-60s film cameras. The front is structured with horizontal lines and displays a metal plate with a numbered scale (0 to 75), as well as a graduated dial on top marked "ASA". The metal crank, located on the front, indicates a manual winding mechanism, characteristic of film cameras from that era. On the right side, a large notched dial is inscribed "CORONA MADE IN USA", confirming the American origin of the device. The overall design is compact, robust, and functional, consistent with the utilitarian and industrial style of the Bell & Howell brand.

The surface of the casing has a textured appearance, visually similar to hammered metal. The dominant color is a nuanced gray, with silvery metal parts on the crank and the side dial. All visible elements—including the numbering plate, dials, and crank—are metallic in appearance, with no specific material indicated beyond what is observable.

On the top part, the "ASA" dial allowed for setting film sensitivity, a characteristic of 8mm or 16mm film cameras from this period. The graduated front dial likely indicates film count or progress. No viewfinder, lens, or other accessories are visible on this side; only the top and one side of the casing are partially shown. The inscriptions "CORONA MADE IN USA" and the graduated plate are legible and authenticate the device as an American Bell & Howell product.

The general style evokes portable cameras intended for family or semi-professional use in the second half of the 20th century. The absence of visible plastic parts and the predominance of metal elements highlight the vintage character of this device. This model, with its crank and visible controls, well illustrates the era of mechanical cameras, before the advent of all-electronic devices.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. Visible signs of wear on the crank (light oxidation marks and patina), superficial scratches on the casing and dial, consistent with age and past use. Inscriptions and graduations remain perfectly legible. The item presents an authentic appearance and a uniform patina, with no breakage or apparent missing parts on the visible side.

Use and Display

Perfect for vintage decoration on a shelf, desk, or in a cinema-themed space. Can also serve as a display piece or a retro prop for a scenography or a 1950s-60s inspired decor.

AFW Reassurance

Your purchase will be carefully packaged and shipped quickly by a professional seller specializing in antique and vintage items.

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