Gandolfi Tailboard Camera

The Gandolfi Tailboard Camera is a British-made wooden field camera of the tailboard pattern, where the baseboard folds down and the lens standard draws out on rails. Gandolfi built tailboard cameras in London from the late 19th century, positioning them as professional plate cameras for studio and landscape work.

Inspect the bellows for pinholes and corner splits, as replacement is the single biggest cost factor on these cameras. Check that the tailboard hinges, rack-and-pinion focus and rising front all operate without racking play, and confirm the ground glass, back frame and any plate holders are present and matching. Brass fittings should be original and uncleaned; refinished woodwork and mismatched lenses reduce value.

Generated summary, 23 Apr 2026 — not checked by hand; prices on this page come from the sales, not from this text.