Beck R J Frena N° 2 |
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Manufactured or assembled in United Kingdom from (Circa) 1893 to (Circa) 1900.
Index of rarity in France: Rare (among non-specialized garage sales)
Inventory number: 13417
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Chronology of cameras Beck R J
Throughout its career, the Frena No. 2 underwent modifications that allow for the establishment of a chronology of the specimens.
The early Frena No. 2 models have a film changing handle in the form of a crank, known as an eccentric crank. The later models have a simpler handle in the form of a bar. This change occurred in 1899 between serial numbers 13000 and 14000. It brought about an evolution in the film mechanism. While in principle it still functions the same way, on the early models, there is a retaining canvas to ensure that the mechanism only moves backward so that exposed films can be deposited in the back of the camera. Subsequently, the mechanism is more modern and can be fully removed to facilitate loading films.
Other differences include: on the early No. 2 models, the focusing lenses are screwed onto the lens, whereas on the more recent models, there is a system of lenses integrated into a rotating mechanism positioned at the front of the camera.
It can also be noted that the viewfinders of the No. 2 underwent changes. Initially, their protections were sliding (as on our specimen), then they took the form of small hatches. This change led to a modification of the front face with a realignment of the two viewfinder windows.
This specimen, numbered 2671, is one of the very early Frena No. 2 models. It can be dated to circa 1893-1894.
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In 1854, two brothers, Richard and Joseph Beck, renamed their London-based optics and microscope company to R & J Beck Ltd after the withdrawal of their third partner, James Smith. The production of cameras began in 1880, and it was in 1892 that the Frena models with their unique system of a notched-edge roll film magazine were introduced.
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