Sunday, 27 July 2025

Otto Spitzer’s 1914 Ferrotypia Camera Postcard

Date of use : 1914 Germany

Otto Spitzer's 1914 Ferrotypia Camera Postcard

This card was prepared in 1914 by the Berlin-based company Otto Spitzer. It served both as an advertising tool and a postcard. Upon close examination, it is clear that the company was engaged in the production and sale of cameras and photographic equipment.
On the left side of the card, the company's quick-shooting camera called "Ferrotypia" is introduced. The slogan "A photo in 1 minute" is particularly striking and innovative, especially considering the technical conditions of the time. With this product, Otto Spitzer aimed not only at the general public with no technical knowledge, but also at professional dealers.
The promotional text highlights the following statements:
"Your photograph in 1 minute – ready immediately and take it with you!"
"No prior knowledge required! No darkroom needed!"
"As easy as a child's toy!"
Among the camera's technical features are an achromatic lens (which reduces chromatic aberration), a 25-exposure capacity without the need for reloading, and full equipment included. Offering all this for just 9 Marks clearly reflects the company's goal to make the product widely accessible.
The recipient of the card was the optical device manufacturer Victor Avril.
This item is documented as part of the Photography in Postal History research project.
For research context, see the Research Methodology.
For academic reference, please refer to How to Cite This Archive.

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