Other Materials46

The Stamp Times

TREASURES OF EARLY PHOTOGRAPHY Pioneers

From compact rollfilm cameras to elegant folding plate models, the evolution of photography is filled with remarkable innovations. Each camera is not only a technical tool but also a reflection of the craftsmanship, engineering, and cultural transformations of its era. Produced in the early 20th century, these devices combined portability with aesthetics, helping photography reach a wider audience. In this collection, we explore iconic designs from Germany and Switzerland that profoundly influenced both amateur and professional photography. From the practical rollfilm solution of the WELTIX, to Emil Suter’s robust 9x12 cm plate camera, and the innovative MAKINA model by Plaubel, each device reveals the engineering ingenuity and photographic culture of its time.

The “Camera Collections” set, released by Romania in 2013, draws the attention of photography enthusiasts and collectors alike. Consisting of six stamps in total, each stamp highlights a different camera and its historical significance. On this page, three of the stamps and the cameras depicted on them are showcased, while information and images of the remaining three stamps can be found on previous pages, allowing for a complete overview of the collection.
In the early days of photography, portable and durable cameras were highly valued by both professional and amateur photographers. These cameras combined portability, aesthetics, and technical innovation, playing a key role in the evolution of photography. In this article, we will explore three notable folding cameras from Germany and Switzerland: the WELTIX, EMIL SUTER’s 9 x 12 cm plate camera, and PLAUBEL & Co.’s MAKINA strut-folding camera. The WELTIX is a rollfilm folding camera manufactured by WELTA-KAMERA-WERKE in Freital, Germany. It played an important role in amateur photography during the 1930s and 1940s.The WELTIX offered compact portability thanks to its folding body. Using rollfilm, it allowed photographers to capture high-resolution images while on the move. Its foldable design protected the camera when not in use and made it easy to carry in a bag. The lens system provided simple yet effective imaging, catering to both amateur and experienced photographers.
WELTA-KAMERA-WERKE was a leading German camera manufacturer. Its workshops in Freital produced durable and innovative designs, securing a strong position in the European market. The WELTIX exemplifies the company’s expertise in portable rollfilm cameras.Due to its historical importance and rarity, the WELTIX is highly valued by collectors today. Its folding design, distinctive branding, and German engineering make it an attractive object for photography enthusiasts. Original images and promotional materials are also significant for understanding the photographic aesthetics of the era.

The 9 x 12 cm folding plate camera by EMIL SUTER was produced in Basel, Switzerland, and was particularly popular among amateur and professional photographers from the late 19th century to the early 20th century. Its folding body made the camera compact and easy to carry. Plate systems offered sharp and clear images according to the standards of the time. The 9 x 12 cm format was ideal for studio portraits, landscapes, and document photography. The camera’s mechanical design and lens system provided a simple yet effective user experience.

Founded in 1878 in Basel, EMIL SUTER was a pioneer in Swiss photography. Its cameras were known for their high quality and reliability, favored by both professional studios and traveling photographers. Folding plate cameras were considered valuable objects that reflected the engineering and design standards of the period.Today, these cameras are rare and highly valued by collectors.
Their historical significance, Swiss engineering, and original mechanical details make them appealing both technically and visually. Original promotional materials and catalog illustrations add extra value to collections.

Founded in 1902 in Frankfurt, PLAUBEL & Co became a prominent manufacturer in the European photography industry, offering innovative portable cameras. The MAKINA strut-folding camera combines portability, functionality, and aesthetic design, making it an engineering marvel of its time. Despite its compact body, the MAKINA provides a stable and durable shooting experience. The “strut” mechanism supports the folding structure, ensuring full stability when opened. Its body, made from a combination of metal and leather, provides both durability and portability. Compatible with rollfilm or plate systems, it is suitable for studio and outdoor photography.
The MAKINA features high-quality lenses and a precise shutter system. It delivers sharp and clear images, particularly for portrait and landscape photography. Its lens design reflects the optical engineering standards of the period.

Known for high-quality standards, durability, and aesthetic design, PLAUBEL & Co produced many innovative models throughout the 20th century. The MAKINA series showcases the company’s engineering expertise in folding and portable cameras.Today, MAKINA strut-folding cameras are rare and highly sought after by collectors.
Their folding mechanism, distinctive branding, and German engineering make them technically and visually captivating. Original boxes, accessories, and promotional materials further enhance their value.The WELTIX, EMIL SUTER plate camera, and PLAUBEL & Co.’s MAKINA are not merely technical objects; they symbolize the evolution of photography in terms of portability, aesthetics, and functionality. Produced in Germany and Switzerland, these cameras hold exceptional historical, cultural, and technical value for both photography enthusiasts and collectors today.

💡 Did You Know?

The WELTIX camera of the 1930s combined portability and performance for amateur photographers.
PLAUBEL & Co.’s MAKINA model stood out with its strut-folding design, offering both durability and elegant aesthetics.
The Plaubel MAKINA introduced a strut-folding design that gave unmatched stability in portable photography.
The Plaubel MAKINA camera’s strut-folding design combined portability with precision, making it a favorite among early 20th-century photographers.

-46-

← Previous 🏠 Home Next →

— Published by The Stamp Times —

© 2025 A.Fevzi Oruç. All rights reserved.