Ross Portable Divided Camera
The Ross Portable Divided Camera is an early British wood-and-brass plate camera, made by the London optical firm Ross. As a divided (folding) field camera, it was intended for outdoor plate photography and dates from the late 19th century era of large-format portable equipment.
Sales data for this model is very thin: a single UK auction hammer result is on record, where one example sold for £75 in November 2023. With only one wholesale saleroom data point, any statement about what a Ross Portable Divided Camera is worth today in 2026 should be treated as indicative rather than definitive, and condition, completeness of the lens and plate holders, and originality of the woodwork will heavily influence the price it 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 2023
| Date | Price | Source | |
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| Nov 2023 | £75 | Flints Auctions | |
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Auction: Fine Photographica (Lot 258) Title: A Ross Portable Divided Twin Lens Camera
Description:
1891, black, with Ross 5x4 Rapid Symmetrical lens, space for Waterhouse stops, body G, some wear to camera covering, missing mirror from viewfinder (Qty: 1) |
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| Nov 2023 | £212 | Flints Auctions | |
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Auction: Fine Photographica (Lot 257) Title: A Ross Portable Dividing Twin Lens Camera
Description:
1890-1900, quarter plate, black, with Ross Zeiss Anastigmat f/8 167mm lenses, serial nos. 2963/2964, body, G-VG, lenses, VG, some light internal |
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| Nov 2023 | £200 | Flints Auctions | |
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Auction: Fine Photographica (Lot 261) Title: A Variation of a Ross Portable Divided Twin Lens Camera
Description:
1891, black, unsigned but by Ross London, with a pair of Beck-Steinheil Unofocal Patent Series I No.3 Focus f/6 4¾" lenses, serial no. 13896 & 11802, (Qty: 1) |
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Frequently asked questions
What is a Ross Portable Divided Camera worth?
Based on the limited UK auction record available, one example hammered at £75 in 2023; with only a single data point, this should be treated as a guide price rather than a firm market value.
How much does a Ross Portable Divided Camera sell for at auction?
The only recorded UK saleroom result sits at £75, but realistic prices will vary with condition, completeness, and whether the original Ross lens is present.
Is the Ross Portable Divided Camera a usable camera today?
It is a plate-era field camera and can in principle be used with sheet film adapters, but most buyers acquire it as a display piece or for its value as an early Ross-branded instrument.