a Stereoly beam splitter mounted on an old Leica camera
Toronto. I noticed over the years different kinds of people collect photographica (cameras, accessories, photographs, memorabilia, etc.). Some collectors researched their possessions and often sold items either to fund new purchases or after a better quality version was acquired. Others were not actually collectors but simply in it for the money. A fast turnover and a much higher price could improve the bottom line.
Both kinds visited our meetings, fairs and auctions over the years. At the March, 1982 Toronto meeting, I was approached by a fellow I will call Alex. Alex had in his pocket a strange looking post war accessory by Leitz for the Leica. This odd thing was an early STEMAR dual lens system that screwed into a regular Leica for stereo shots beyond 10 metres.
I must have looked surprised at the accessory and the reasonable price because Alex abruptly put it back in his pocket and withdrew his offer (an add-on viewer and prism for closeup stereo could be added to the STEMAR if they could be found).
The following month, I got a call from Alex suggesting we meet in a North York restaurant. I met Alex and he carefully pulled a very old STEREOLY (c1939) from his pocket. Inside a matching tiny brown leather case was the tiny beam splitter complete with a ‘four notch’ arm and viewer to slide into the camera’s accessory shoe and hold the prism against the camera lens. After a lengthy discussion, I agreed to buy the device.
As we readied to leave, Alex pulled another gadget from his pocket. It was like a fat plastic pocket watch case. Opening it, he showed me a 1937 Hektor 28mm lens. He also had the folding 28mm viewer with its own leather case. The lens and its case were in beautiful shape. Lens, viewer, cases too went to a new home.
So there you have it. Some folk collect and research their finds. Some sell off items as better ones are found or interests change, while others are just “in it for the money”. All can be rich sources of additions to any collection. Drop by our events this coming spring and you too may find that special item to complement your collection (or user gear).
