Date of use : 1914 Germany

Otto Spitzer's Nova Camera Promo Card (1914)

This advertisement and promotional card belongs to the Otto Spitzer company, a manufacturer of photographic equipment, accessories, and cameras based in Berlin, the capital of Germany. The card introduces a model called the "Klapptaschenkamera 'Nova'" (Foldable Pocket Camera "Nova"). This camera, launched in the early 1910s, was a mid-range, portable, and relatively affordable model. The term "Klapptaschenkamera" is used to indicate that the device is foldable and compact enough to be carried in a pocket. Cameras of this type usually featured a bellows mechanism and, thanks to their compact design, were well-suited for field use.

The Nova model used an "Aplanat" lens, a dual-element optical system developed to correct lens aberrations, particularly spherical aberrations. This made it possible to achieve sharper and more accurate images. The language and design of the card reflect the advertising style of the period — technical details are extensively provided, and visual appeal is emphasized.

The camera was offered together with two film cartridges, an instructional booklet, an exposure table, and a carrying case. This comprehensive package made it attractive both for beginners and semi-professional users. A striking slogan written in large capital letters appears on the card: "Ausstattung und Preis schlägt jede Konkurrenz!" ("Its equipment and price surpass all competition!")

On the back of the card, there is a commercial letter addressed to optical device manufacturer Victor Avril. The content of the letter is as follows:

Dear Mr. V. Avril,

Zabern,

As a sample, I am sending you the Stereoscopic Viewer Device 2186, which is used to view paper stereoscopic images in 9×18 cm or 8½×17 cm format. I use 500 pairs of stereoscopic lenses for this device. I am also sending Device 4837, which is suitable for viewing paper and glass stereoscopic images in the 4½×10.7 cm format. This second device uses 100 pairs of lenses.

As you know, the lenses must have the same focal length as the devices used to capture the images. It is important that the delivery takes place as soon as possible. Therefore, I kindly ask you to urgently send me your best offer. Only serious offers achieve their purpose and result in regular orders.

For now, I ask you to keep both devices in your possession and kindly request your response as soon as possible.

Berlin W.30 – June 22, 1914

Gleidtstraße 47

Sincerely,

Otto Spitzer

One of the most striking features of this card is its postmark date. It is dated June 22, 1914 — just six days before the outbreak of World War I (June 28, 1914: the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand).

This item is documented as part of the Photography in Postal History research project.
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