The N&S Reflex was designed and patented by Arthur Newman. It is one of a small number of front-shutter reflex cameras made around this time, the main advantage being the slow speeds available with a between-the-lens shutter. Focal-plane blinds were also not liked by some photographers as they disturbed any dust in the camera and were considered vulnerable to pinholes. A notable feature is the interrupted thread used to attach the lens.

The usual lens is a Zeiss or Ross-Zeiss Tessar, a Ross Xpres was introduced in 1913. A telephoto, at first a Bis-Telar, was interchangeable with the standard lens, the Telecentric was added in 1913. The 5" x 4" model remained available (probably existing stock) for a year or so after the start of World War I, sales then ceased and did not resume after the war. Total production probably amounted to fewer than 200 cameras. The camera was available in 9 x 12 cm as well as the quarter-plate and 5" x 4" models. The price of a quarter-plate was £23.10.0.