Suzuki Opticalco. Camera Lite (Model B Gold)
The Suzuki Opticalco. Camera Lite (Model B Gold) is a Japanese-made novelty subminiature camera presented in a gold-finished lighter-style body. It belongs to a small group of post-war Japanese spy/novelty cameras designed to disguise photographic function within everyday objects.
Evidence on what this camera is worth is limited to a single UK auction-hammer result: an example sold for £1,100 in November 2007 (a wholesale saleroom price excluding commission). With only one data point, today's value is best treated as indicative rather than a reliable market median, and condition, completeness and presentation case are likely to drive the price a clean 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 2007
| Date | Price | Source | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 2007 | EUR 1,100 | Leitz Auction | |
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Auction: Leitz Auction 12 (Lot AI_12_20705) Title: Suzuki Optical Co. Camera Lite B (Gold)
Description:
cigarette-lighter spy camera for 6x6mm images on 8mm perforated film for 20 exposures, diamond pattern gold finish, fixed focus lens, 2-speed shutter for instant and bulb exposures, in maker's box with original instructions in English and Japanese. Minori film cassettes, case Estimate: EUR 1,800 - EUR 2,200 |
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| Nov 2003 | EUR 1,719 | Leitz Auction | |
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Auction: Leitz Auction 4 (Lot AI_4_22471) Title: Suzuki Optical Co. Camera-Lite B (Gold)
Description:
Für 20 6x6mm Aufnahmen auf perforiertem 8mm Film, sehr seltene Gold Version, 2-Zeiten Verschluss, Gravur: OTV, in Balsa Holz Schachtel mit original Anleitung und Film Kassetten Estimate: EUR 19,550 - EUR 4 |
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Frequently asked questions
What is a Suzuki Camera Lite (Model B Gold) worth today?
Auction evidence is thin, but the one recorded UK hammer result is £1,100, so a comparable clean example would be expected to trade around that level subject to condition and completeness.
How much does a Suzuki Camera Lite (Model B Gold) sell for at auction?
The only verified UK auction sale on file achieved a hammer price of £1,100, which gives a reference point for the price this model sells for rather than a firm market range.
Why is the price so high for such a small camera?
Value here is driven by rarity and collectability as a novelty/disguised camera rather than by photographic specification, which is why a single subminiature example can command a four-figure hammer price.