Stereo viewer with light box, transparency stage and optics frame
fits into covered leather case. “Monogram” is seen on front prop
Toronto. Collectors of photography generally divide into collectors of cameras and collectors of photos. But either group might collect the accessories and ephemera related to their collection.
Stereo buffs – cameras or photos might also collect various viewers, projectors, light tables, etc.
In issue 25-4, Bill Belier’s column, “A Treasure From My Collection” had ghost writers while Bill recovered from knee surgery. This column was written by Robert Wilson and has a stereo theme. It is titled, “Stereo Viewer and Transposing Printer”
The article begins, “This set of stereoscopic items comes from the collection of Robert Wilson. Bob attended an auction in Toronto in 1979 and came away with a stereoscopic viewer, more than 200 B&W stereoscopic transparencies on acetate film, and a strange looking two lens apparatus thought to be an enlarger.
“The viewer and images were straight forward to understand. It was the two lens ‘enlarger’ that confused him.
“The viewer is made of black-painted metal, with bright brass fittings. The light box contains two light bulbs to provide illumination to view the transparencies. There are adjustments for both focus and for inter-ocular distance. The whole viewing device is stored in a leather-covered carrying case and swings up out of the case onto a supporting leg when in use.
“Affixed to this support is what is assumed to be a monogram – the letter H with a long tail to its right stroke. It adds a tantalizing mystery since there are no identification markings on either of the two instruments. They are assumed to be one-of-a-kind, home-made and built by a very capable technician.” …
Members read all of the article and viewed the other photos in the issue 25-4 pdf file on the free members-only DVD (or memory stick). See above or to the right (Membership) to join. Drop Lilianne a note at member@phsc.ca if you have a question.
Visit our Museum Auction on November 9th. While there may or may not be stereo items, there will be items to perk your interest and expand your collection.
