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Bolsey Corp. Bolsey 8

The Bolsey 8 is a subminiature dual-purpose camera capable of shooting both 8mm motion picture film and single still frames on the same stock. It was introduced in the 1950s and positioned as a compact hybrid intended to combine cine and still photography in one pocketable body.

At UK auction, hammer prices for the Bolsey 8 have ranged from roughly £86 to £260, with a median near £160 across the recorded sales. The market is thin and condition-sensitive, so in today's saleroom examples with working shutters, clean optics and original accessories tend to sell for the upper end of that range, while incomplete or non-functional bodies are worth considerably less.

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Sales History

Prices shown are UK auction hammer results — the wholesale level achieved in the saleroom. Neither buyer’s nor seller’s commission is included. Dealer and retail asking prices are typically higher.

Prices updated: November 2006

Date Price Source
Nov 2006 EUR 420 Leitz Auction
Nov 2005 EUR 280 Leitz Auction
May 2005 £156 Christie's
Nov 2004 £262 Christie's
May 2004 £155 Christie's
Apr 2003 £282 Christie's
Jul 2001 £258 Christie's
Mar 2001 £223 Christie's
Nov 1998 £86 Christie's

Frequently asked questions

What is a Bolsey 8 worth today?

Based on UK auction hammer results, a Bolsey 8 is typically worth between about £86 and £260, with a median value near £160 depending on condition and completeness.

How much does a Bolsey 8 sell for at auction?

Recorded UK auction sales show the Bolsey 8 sells for roughly £90 at the low end up to around £260 for better examples, with most hammer prices clustered in the middle of that range.

What affects the price of a Bolsey 8?

Working mechanical condition, clean optics, cosmetic state and the presence of original case or accessories are the main factors; non-functional examples sell for significantly less than fully operational ones.

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