KODAK "BROWNIE Model 0"
ca. 1916


Kodak introduced the original Brownie camera in 1900. When a slightly improved version was released in 1901, they designated it as No. 1 to differentiate it from the early model. Both used 117 film. When Kodak launched a line of larger Brownies for 120 film, they used No. 2 as the designation. The even larger model for 116 film was called 2A.

When in 1914 they opted to make the smallest Brownie of all, using the new 127 size film, they evidently opted to go in reverse in their numbering and called this newest model the No. 0. The zero yielded small images of 1-5/8” x 2-1/2”. The camera measures only about 2-1/2” x 3-1/2” x 4”, even smaller than the original Brownie of 1900.

The No. 0 was in production from 1914 to 1935, in various models. This is the earliest, Model A, and can be dated between 1914 and 1917 as it does not have a directional arrow on the bezel of the winding key, a feature added in July 1917. This camera is as-new in condition, probably due to the fact that it was stored in its original box. It may well be new-old-stock, never sold by the original dealer. The nickel gleams and the leather-textured paper covering is absolutely flawless. The Brownie No. 0 is a common camera, but it is rare to find one in perfect condition. The box is actually much rarer than the camera itself.



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