First Kodak Camera Appraisal

Eastman Kodak No. 1 Kodex Folding Camera

This is a vintage Eastman Kodak No. 1 Kodex folding camera, likely a Kodak Junior No. 1 or similar model dating from the late 1920s to the mid-1930s. The camera features a vertical folding design with a black leatherette-covered metal body. It is equipped with a black fabric or leather bellows system that extends on a metal track. The front lens assembly includes a No. 1 Kodex shutter with visible settings for 'T', 'B', 25, and 50 shutter speeds. The lens is mounted in a decorative circular housing with polished metal accents. A brilliant viewfinder is attached to the top of the lens standard. Notable markings include 'No. 1 KODEX' on the shutter face and 'KODAK JUNIOR SERIES' on the metal bed plate. The camera displays significant signs of age and wear; the leatherette carrying handle at the top is frayed and partially detached, and the external covering shows some scuffing and dust accumulation. There is visible patina on the metal hinges and struts. The bellows appears intact but would require a light-leak test for functional use. This piece represents typical mass-market camera craftsmanship of the early 20th century, utilizing fixed-focus optics and a rugged, portable design for amateur photographers.