Mckeown's Price Guide To Antique And Classic Cameras
If you're a camera enthusiast, you know that collecting antique and classic cameras can be an exciting and rewarding hobby. Whether you're interested in 19th-century wooden view cameras or mid-century rangefinders, there's a wealth of fascinating vintage equipment out there to explore.
But how do you know what to look for when you're building your collection? That's where McKeown's Price Guide to Antique and Classic Cameras comes in. This definitive reference work has been the go-to resource for camera collectors for over 35 years.
The History of McKeown's Price Guide
McKeown's Price Guide was first published in 1979 by James and Joan McKeown, a husband-and-wife team of camera collectors and dealers based in Grantsburg, Wisconsin. The first edition covered cameras made between 1839 and 1939, and quickly became a must-have resource for collectors.
Over the years, the guide has expanded to cover cameras made up until the present day. Today, it is edited by James McKeown's son, John McKeown, and is published every two years.
The Content of McKeown's Price Guide
McKeown's Price Guide is a massive tome, with over 1,200 pages of information about antique and classic cameras. The guide includes detailed descriptions and histories of thousands of cameras, along with current market values and rarity ratings for each make and model.
The guide is organized chronologically, with separate sections for cameras made before 1900, cameras made between 1900 and 1939, and cameras made after 1939. Within each section, cameras are arranged alphabetically by manufacturer.
In addition to its comprehensive listings of cameras, McKeown's Price Guide also includes information about camera accessories, lenses, and photographic ephemera such as advertising materials and manuals.
Using McKeown's Price Guide
Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, McKeown's Price Guide is an invaluable tool for anyone interested in antique and classic cameras. Here are a few tips for using the guide:
- Take advantage of the guide's detailed descriptions and histories to learn more about the cameras you're interested in.
- Pay attention to rarity ratings when considering a purchase. Cameras that are rare or in high demand will generally command higher prices.
- Use the guide's current market values as a rough starting point for negotiations when buying or selling cameras.
- Don't be afraid to consult the guide when you're unsure about a particular camera or accessory. The guide's editors have decades of experience in the field and are happy to help.
The Future of McKeown's Price Guide
Despite the rise of online marketplaces and other sources of information about vintage cameras, McKeown's Price Guide remains an essential resource for collectors. The guide's editors continue to update and refine its listings, ensuring that it remains the most comprehensive and reliable source of information about antique and classic cameras.
If you're a camera collector or enthusiast, McKeown's Price Guide is a must-have addition to your library. Its wealth of information and authoritative listings make it an indispensable tool for anyone interested in the history and value of vintage cameras.