Ensign Midget Folding Camera Art Deco Model 33 E10 Film 1934

This is a delightful piece of photographic history: the Ensign Midget Folding Camera, a miniature strut-braced camera highly sought after for its iconic Art Deco styling. Manufactured by Houghton-Butcher in England between 1934 and 1941, the Midget was marketed with the slogan Wear it AlwaysLike your Watch due to its remarkably compact size when folded.

The camera uses a bellows and strut mechanism that snaps into place for rigid picture taking. It features the signature diamond-shaped faceplate and an integrated wire frame viewfinder. This model is likely a Model 33 or 55 due to the presence of multiple speeds (1/25, 1/50, 1/100 sec) and Time/Bulb settings, offering more control than the basic Model 22.

Technical Specifications (Ensign Midget)

• Film Type: E10 Roll Film (Obsolete format; adaptable by cutting 35mm film)
• Image Size: 35mm x 45mm (Slightly larger than a standard 35mm negative)
• Lens: Simple Meniscus or similar fixed/all-distance lens
• Shutter: Mechanical Leaf Shutter (Everset type)
• Shutter Speed Range: T (Time), B (Bulb), 1/25, 1/50, 1/100 sec
• Aperture/Focus: Simple settings marked SMALL and LARGE (Fixed focus or limited zone focusing)
• Body: Pressed Steel with Black Grained Leatherette Covering
• Dimensions (Folded): Approx 90mm x 45mm x 18mm

Condition Report

The camera is in Good  cosmetic condition for a camera nearly 90 years old, ideal for display.

• Bellows: The black leather bellows appear intact with no immediate visible light leaks, but are untested with film.
• Mechanism: The folding struts deploy and lock firmly into position. The shutter fires mechanically at all speeds (accuracy untested due to age).
• Cosmetic: The chrome struts and faceplate show minor tarnishing and surface wear consistent with age. The leatherette covering is mostly intact and clean.
• Viewing: The wire frame finder folds and locks correctly.