a c1890 Talmer camera bought in Cape Town South Africa c1995
Toronto. Have you ever heard about a camera called the Talmer? this c1890 camera with a wood body was once advertised as the “perfected automatic hand camera”. This fine example of a British camera was once in the collection of members Les Jones (past president, etc.) and Judy Rauliuk (past treasurer).
In his column, “A Treasure From My Collection …” in issue 24-5, Bill Belier discusses this camera. Bill begins, “In the summer of 1995 Les and Judy flew to Capetown to cover the Rugby World Cup being held throughout South Africa. Now I should explain that they have a passion for (English) rugby football and for soccer (and you should never confuse the two!), that draws them to the ‘Big Games’ wherever the sports are played. On their travels they never fail to “look around” …not for the scenery but for antique shops, camera shops, flea markets… whatever, seeking new treasures for their collection. In fact, as Les explained, they consider it a disappointment to return home without something new from every trip.
“And so it was that they spotted a little antique shop in Cape Town that just happened to have a beautiful little camera that Les and Judy knew belonged in their collection. It was a bit pricey, and since they were travelling light, they had no reference books on hand. A quick call to Toronto to another PHSC member (Larry Boccioletti) confirmed that the price was “in line” according to his reference sources… the deal was made and with Judy and Les as sponsors, the little Talmer emigrated to Canada.” …
Members read the rest of Bill’s column and more in the pdf file for 24-5 on the free members-only DVD/memory stick. To join, see’MEMBERSHIP’ above or ‘Membership’ at right, Questions? Email Lilianne at member@phsc.ca.
Be sure to visit all our 2025 events, The Fall Fair is next on October 19th. While we can’t say you will find a Talmer, you will find lots of neat items offered for your collection.
