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Overview Reflecting the commanding, mechanical aesthetic of mid-century American cinema, this vintage Bell & Howell Filmo Auto Master 16mm motion picture camera body features a classic rotating three-lens turret front plate. Encased in a heavy die-cast metal frame with a textured brown enamel finish and an integrated side hand strap, this piece serves as a sophisticated industrial centerpiece for executive desks, library shelves, or credenza displays within Modernist, Industrial, or Global Eclectic interiors. This historic cinematic object includes complimentary, fully insured standard delivery. Deep Cultural & Historical Background Manufactured in Chicago during the golden era of 16mm filmmaking, the Bell & Howell Filmo Auto Master was crafted as a heavy-duty, professional-grade tool utilized by newsreel cameramen, military documentarians, and independent filmmakers. Engineered around a spring-wound clockwork drive, its defining mechanical feature is the circular multi-port lens turret, which enabled rapid focal-length changes in field conditions. The side housing features a bold, circular burgundy exposure chart with polished aluminum lettering, giving the operator instant f-stop calculations across various lighting environments and frame rates (16 to 64 frames per second). As an enduring artifact of mid-century industrial culture, this camera celebrates function-driven American engineering and early motion-picture heritage. Condition & Surface Character This camera body exhibits genuine, age-appropriate mechanical wear and authentic field patina. The textured brown finish displays noticeable surface rubbing, flaking, and loss to the side leatherette inset, exposing the underlying patinated surface beneath. The metal turret faceplate, fold-out winding lever, and side exposure calculation dial retain strong legibility and solid structural integrity, offering an authentically aged, tactile display texture. Dimensions, Shipping & Display Height: 6.0 inches Width/Diameter: 4.0 inches Depth: 4.0 inches Weight Profile: Solid / Heavy Metal Construction (approx. 4.5 lbs) Shipping: Free Standard Shipping (Fully Insured & Securely Boxed) Mounting/Display: Display stand not included (Object Only)
