Suter Detective Camera

{"overview":"The Suter Detective Camera is an early box-form plate camera from the late 19th century, built for discreet handheld use during the period when \"detective\" cameras were a recognised category of concealed or inconspicuous photographic equipment. Made by the Swiss optical firm E. That figure reflects wholesale auction value rather than retail, and given the model's scarcity, the price a clean, complete example is worth can swing widely with condition, completeness of the original lens and plate holders, and provenance.","buying_guide":"On any surviving example, inspect the wooden body for shrinkage cracks, check the shutter mechanism for responsiveness, and confirm the lens is the original Suter optic rather than a later replacement.

Generated summary, 16 May 2026 — not checked by hand; prices on this page come from the sales, not from this text.