Zeiss Contessa-Nettel Steroco stereo camera with Tesonar lenses
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
Circa 1910-1920
This antique Zeiss Contessa-Nettel Steroco stereo camera dates to approximately 1910-1920. It features a distinct black enamel brinkle finish and is equipped with binocular-shaped Tesonar 55mm f6.5 lenses.
The camera is designed for 45mm x 107mm film formats. The set includes a near mint Agfa film pack adaptor and the original leather case. The camera body measures approximately 5 inches in length, 2.875 inches in width, and 2.25 inches in height, with a total weight of 1.68 lbs. The leather case measures 7 inches by 4.5 inches by 3 inches. The front of the camera is marked with "Steroco" and "Contessa-Nettel Stuttgart".
The device is a classic example of early 20th-century stereo photography equipment, reflecting the precision engineering and industrial design typical of the Contessa-Nettel brand during that era. It remains a notable collectible for enthusiasts of historical optical instruments and vintage camera technology, showcasing both functional utility and aesthetic craftsmanship of the period.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Physical characteristics
- Weight
- 1.68lbs
- Material
- Black enamel finish, leather case
- Dimensions
- Camera: 5in x 2.875in x 2.25in; Case: 7in x 4.5in x 3in
Technical characteristics
- Lens
- Tesonar 55mm f6.5
- Format
- 45mm x 107mm
Design
- Markings
- Steroco, Contessa-Nettel Stuttgart
Identification
- Source note
- Described from a single auction-house listing published on Invaluable (reproduced with Invaluable's permission). Details apply to that one example; other examples of the type may differ, and the listing is supplementary evidence, not authentication.
- Maker named in listing
- Contessa-Nettel
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.