This has been mentioned some time ago in this section in connection with a Hermagis identification.
This is A-Z series of booklets covering French Lenses from 1839 until 1939. Some makers have their own monogram (like Jamin/Darlot, Berthiot and Hermagis) but most are in alphabetically grouped 30 page booklets. The one I have in front of me includes the following bigger names:
Faller
Francais
Gasc & Charconnet/Laverne/Clement & Gilmer
as well as dozens of minor makers.
The booklets have a price of €30 each and it is obvious it is for the collectors market, rather than for practioners. However, the information for identication of specific lenses is by far the best I have seen.
I bought the above booklet as it contained a photo of an "unknown" Gasc & Charconnet petzval I had just acquired. Thanks to the booklet, I can see:
- it was made from 1862 and called the 3rd series "Objectif simplifies"
- the patent with diagrams of usage are illustrated.
- it was made in 6 sizes (no. 17 - 22). Mine is probably no.18 covering 11x16cm!
- that it is engraved with 7 rue Chaponn which was G & C's first address.
Quite apart from specific information I was needing, I can see that the american agents (Bryant, Codman and Swindon Earp Cameras) are identified, as well it gives an extensive description of the history of the change-over to CLement & Gilmer.
These booklets are produced in a 100 examples each and a whole collection would require an investment. I will probably buy a few more (at last an idea for christmas presents I can pass on!).
I thought it might be useful to have a list of the copies which have been bought by contributors here. People who would be willing to post data on request about specific lenses and makers. I have a great deal of respect for Patrice Pont and Jean Loup Princelle for making this A-Z which is a unique source. So no reproductions, just content of text.
Website, with samples of pages from each booklet, can be found through google le reve edition.
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