Rochesteropticalco. Universal
The Rochester Optical Co. Universal is an early American view camera from the late 19th century, a period when Rochester Optical produced large-format wooden field and studio cameras using sheet film or glass plates.
Sales data for the Universal is extremely thin: a single UK auction hammer result in November 2025 reached £3,000, and with only one wholesale saleroom data point there is no meaningful range or median to quote for what one is worth today. Buyers researching the value or price of this model in 2026 should treat that figure as indicative rather than typical, since condition, completeness of lens and plate holders, and provenance heavily influence what an example sells for.
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 2025
| Date | Price | Source | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 2025 | EUR 3,000 | Leitz Auction | |
|
Auction: Leitz Auction 47 (Lot A02257) Title: Rochester Optical Co. Universal Variation 1 'Walker Evans'
Description:
Early first variation of the Universal model, owned and probably used by the famous U.S. photographer Walker Evans early in his carrier, provenance: a personal and professional assistant of Mr. Evans who inherited the camera. Folding wooden camera with reversing back for 13x18cm (5x7") film plates, the focus is made from the front part only, with a "triple-convertible" type unmarked lens mounted in Wollensak Autex pneumatic shutter, original black bellows, mahogany chassis with brass fittings, in good, original condition, with 3x original film plate holders, 12x Eastman 5x7" later film sheath with maker's box, original canvas hard case. |
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Frequently asked questions
What is a Rochester Optical Universal worth today?
Based on the single available UK auction record, one example sold for £3,000 hammer in late 2025, but with so few data points the value of any individual camera depends heavily on condition and completeness.
How much does a Rochester Optical Universal sell for at auction?
The only recorded sale in our data is £3,000 at UK auction in November 2025; that price reflects the wholesale hammer level and excludes buyer's premium.
What should I check before buying one?
Inspect the bellows for light leaks, verify the wood and brass hardware are sound, and confirm the original lens and plate holders are included, as missing components significantly reduce the price a Universal sells for.