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Dallmeyer (J.H.) Speed Camera

The Dallmeyer Speed Camera is a hand-held press and action camera made by the London optical firm J.H. Dallmeyer, which was known from the 19th century onwards for fast portrait and press lenses. It is a plate-format camera aimed at photographers who needed a wide-aperture lens for sports, news and stage work.

At recent UK auction, hammer prices for the Dallmeyer Speed Camera have ranged from about £28 to £500, with a median around £225 — a spread that reflects how condition-sensitive and lens-dependent these pieces are in today's saleroom. As of 2026, a complete working example with a clean Dallmeyer lens tends to sell for the upper end of that range, while incomplete or cosmetically tired bodies are worth considerably less. Because these are wholesale auction results rather than dealer retail prices, specialist shops will typically ask more than the figures shown here.

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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.

Date Price Source
Jun 2024 £225 Flints Auctions
Nov 2023 £250 Flints Auctions
Jun 2022 EUR 300 Leitz Auction
Nov 2018 EUR 500 Leitz Auction
Dec 2009 EUR 250 Leitz Auction
Nov 2007 EUR 460 Leitz Auction
May 2006 £120 Christie's
Feb 2006 £72 Christie's
Dec 2002 £376 Christie's
May 1999 £149 Christie's
Nov 1998 £28 Christie's
Sep 1998 £161 Christie's
Aug 1998 £103 Christie's

Frequently asked questions

What is a Dallmeyer Speed Camera worth today?

Recent UK auction hammer prices sit between roughly £28 and £500, with a median near £225 depending on completeness, lens and cosmetic condition.

How much does a Dallmeyer Speed Camera sell for at auction?

Clean, complete examples with a good Dallmeyer lens have sold for around £500, while rough or incomplete bodies have changed hands for well under £100.

Why do prices for the Dallmeyer Speed Camera vary so much?

The value is driven mainly by the condition of the bellows, shutter and lens, plus whether original dark slides and accessories are included, which is why the price range is so wide.

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