CameraWorth.com

Graflex Speed Graphic

The Graflex Speed Graphic is a large-format press camera produced in the United States by Graflex, with a focal-plane shutter built into the body in addition to the between-the-lens shutter of its taking lens. It was the standard news-photography camera in the mid-20th century, typically used with sheet film in 4x5 and related formats.

At UK auction today, hammer results for Speed Graphic bodies sit roughly in the £94–£290 range across the sales on record, with a median around £180 — these are wholesale saleroom prices before buyer's premium, not dealer retail. Recent 2024 hammers of £162 and £200 suggest a typical clean example sells for around £160–£200, while earlier Christie's results show that complete outfits with desirable lenses have historically been worth more. Condition, completeness of the rangefinder, and the presence of a working lens and film holders drive most of the price variation.

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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
Sep 2025 £200 Flints Auctions
Aug 2025 £275 Flints Auctions
Oct 2024 £85 Harper Field Auctions
Sep 2024 £288 Flints Auctions
Jan 2024 £162 Flints Auctions
Jan 2024 £200 Flints Auctions
Dec 2021 £124 Flints Auctions
Jan 2021 £136 Flints Auctions
Feb 2019 £150 Harper Field Auctions
Jun 2007 £288 Christie's
Mar 2007 £180 Christie's
Nov 2003 £235 Christie's
Nov 2003 £105 Christie's
Jan 2001 £94 Christie's
Aug 2000 £94 Christie's
Nov 1998 £126 Christie's

Other Graflex cameras