I just got a Graflex 3A, serial 27957; when was it made?

And, does anyone know what the two stash pockets built into the sides are intended for?

The "3A Graflex" had a long production run; the 1982 edition of Photographic Memorabilia's "Blue Book" (Myron Wolf) gives dates of c.1907 to 1926. Gandolf may be able to get much more specific.

Is your "3A" the "Autographic" kind, with the hinged slit cover on the back?

A college friend of mine had a "3A Graflex" with a 6-in. f:2.5 "Cooke Anastigmat," and it was a terrific picture-taker. Of course, you could get 122 rollfilm in those days!

My 3A lacks the Autographic feature. According to McKeowns that feature was added in 1915; based on the serial number I am guessing 1910~1911 for my camera. It lists patent dates through 1909.

Gandalf?

This is the camera that has the Ross lens just listed under the lens forum. It is in unusually fine condition, and even the curtains are perfect. If I can get some film from one of the specialty sources it ought to be fun to play with.

<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: disemjg on 2004-04-17 05:55 ]</font>

Your about right. No hard data before serial number 47,xxx which is around 1915.

early Speeds intro'd in 1912 have a 29,xxx