Folding Minex

The Folding Minex was made in two distinct models, a third model is illustrated in the earliest advertisements but was probably a prototype or artist impression.

'Prototype'

• Lazy tongs connecting the front standard to the rear of the camera.
• Front standard connects to inner focusing frame.
• Small focusing wheel, fixed to folding bed, moves inner focusing frame. Focusing wheel on the right-hand side when using the camera.
• Shutter release on the left-hand side.

1914 model

• No lazy tongs.
• Large focusing wheel on right-hand side.
• Cut out for focusing wheel pinion.
• Double extension by a folding rack.
• Loose flap between camera top and the folded bed.
• Release on left-hand side.

1922 model

• Release on right-hand side.
• No flap.
• Focusing wheel on left-hand side.
• Later models (c. 1925/26) have a separate IBT selector lever.

When originally produced the Folding Minex was available in 3 ¼" x 4 ¼", 4" x 5" and 6 ½" x 4 ¾" sizes. Later (c. 1919) a 2 ½" x 3 ½" model was made, postcard and 10 x 15 cm sizes were added in the 1920s.

The Tropical model was introduced around 1920. The camera was normally sold with a film pack adapter rather than slides. Standard lenses are in sunken mounts either wood or leather covered, telephoto lenses are surface mounted. Cases made of crocodile were advertised from 1926.

A cloth sleeve in the focusing hood is connected by a cord to the mirror mechanism. As the mirror is released so the sleeve moves within the hood to block out light from the hood.