a four legged BEHOO close-up device used with the shown extension tubes.
Toronto. … climbed up the water spout. In the mid 1920s, Leitz made the tiny Leica to help retain its well trained mechanics in the face of post war hyper-inflation. The camera was an overwhelming success. In fact it was the first minicam to be a commercial success.
Leitz worked to add accessories to the little utilitarian camera, expanding its versatility. In the case of close-ups, in the 1930s, various ‘Auxiliary Setting Devices’ came to market featuring extension tubes to correctly extend the lens, a special ring to fit on the front of the lens and four extendable legs that set the distance and framed the area in the camera’s field.
The gadgets, affectionately known as spider legs could copy documents, book pages, and any other flattish items in close-up. With care, one leg could be removed to avoid any shadow.
Shown at top left is the BEHOO accessory (1935-1959) which was an improvement on similar earlier devices. Its special ring was intended for use with the 5cm ELMAR and SUMMAR lenses.
Post digital, such devices became unnecessary as the view is on screen, in full colour, and the sensors fast enough for hand-held exposures. My smart phone (which copied the above photo) boasts 48 mp and 12 mp cameras with instant viewing of any shot. Blurry or out of focus images can be retaken immediately.
Visit our spring fair this May 24th. You may spot one of these wonderful old accessories (or a cousin), made by Leitz or another maker and just waiting for your collection.
Note: The post title is from an old nursery rhyme we once sang to our children.
