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Hermagis Velocigraphe

The Hermagis Velocigraphe is a French-made plate camera from the late nineteenth century, produced by the Paris optical firm Hermagis. It was marketed as a hand-held instantaneous camera at a time when most photographic work still relied on tripod-mounted studio equipment.

At recent UK auction, hammer prices for the Velocigraphe have ranged from £400 to £750, with a median around £700 — wholesale saleroom levels rather than dealer retail. With only a handful of recorded results spanning 2007 to 2017, today's value is condition-sensitive and the market is thin, so what a Velocigraphe sells for in 2026 depends heavily on completeness of the original fittings and cosmetic state.

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: June 2017

Date Price Source
Jun 2017 EUR 700 Leitz Auction
Nov 2015 EUR 400 Leitz Auction
Nov 2014 EUR 600 Leitz Auction
Nov 2011 EUR 539 Leitz Auction
May 2010 EUR 700 Leitz Auction
Dec 2009 EUR 600 Leitz Auction
Jun 2008 EUR 500 Leitz Auction
Nov 2007 EUR 1,200 Leitz Auction
May 2007 EUR 750 Leitz Auction

Frequently asked questions

What is a Hermagis Velocigraphe worth today?

Based on UK auction hammer results, a Hermagis Velocigraphe is worth roughly £400 to £750, with recent sales clustering near the upper end of that range for clean, complete examples.

How much does a Hermagis Velocigraphe sell for at auction?

It typically sells for between £400 and £750 at UK saleroom level, though the sample size is small and individual prices depend strongly on condition and the presence of original accessories.

Why do Velocigraphe prices vary so much?

With only three recorded sales, the price range reflects differences in condition, completeness and bidder interest on the day rather than a settled market value.