Rochester Optical Co.

American Challenge Swivel Bed Camera
Challenge Camera

Date Introduced: - ; Years Manufactured: c.1881-1887
Construction: front and back focus; double swing; sliding metal lensboard; reversing by removable back; no gears;
Materials: cherry; cast iron base; red leather bellows; nickeled brass hardware
Sizes Offered: 3.25x4.25; 4x5 (photos above).
Notes: an innovative metal monorail-like base; originally made by Walker & Co., and continued by ROC.  A wooden bed   Challenge Camera of different construction was offered in 1883 in 5x8 format.  The bed swivels for stowage in the wooden case.
References:
Rochester Optical Co. Catalog, 1883
American Journal of Photography, March, 1885, p. 9
C.H. Codman (Boston, MA), 1886.

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