Thornton-pickardmfg. Co. College
The Thornton-Pickard College is a British-made plate camera from the early twentieth century, produced by the Manchester firm Thornton-Pickard Manufacturing Co. It was a budget-tier wooden-bodied plate camera aimed at students and amateur photographers when new.
Recorded UK auction activity for the College is thin, with a hammer price of £80 from 2024 representing the only documented saleroom result. At that wholesale auction level the camera sells for a modest sum, and as of today values are likely to remain in double figures unless an exceptional, complete example with original accessories appears.
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: April 2024
| Date | Price | Source | |
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| Apr 2024 | £80 | Special Auction Services | |
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Auction: Photographica & Cameras Auction (Lot 27) Title: A Thornton Pickard College Quarter Plate Mahogany & Brass Camera
Description:
A Thornton Pickard College Quarter Plate Mahogany & Brass Camera, body G, solder repair to back focusing wheel, bellows P. with f/8 lens, in Thornton |
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| Oct 2017 | £144 | Flints Auctions | |
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Auction: Fine Photographica (Lot 281) Title: A 'Thornton-Pickard College' Half Plate Mahogany Field Camera
Description:
1912-1936, with Aldis Anastigmat No.7 f/7.7 brass lens, in shutter, body, G, lens, G, some light internal fungus, shutter not working; No markings |
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| Feb 2004 | £167 | Christie's | |
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Auction: CAMERAS AND PHOTOGRAPHIC EQUIPMENT INCLUDING MAGIC LANTERNS (Lot 171) Title: College field camera
Description:
College field camera Estimate: £150 - £200 |
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Frequently asked questions
What is a Thornton-Pickard College camera worth today?
Based on the single recorded UK auction hammer result, a College sold for £80 in 2024, so current value sits around that level for a complete working example.
How much does a Thornton-Pickard College sell for at auction?
Documented hammer prices are limited to one sale at £80, and with so few data points the realistic price range cannot be defined more precisely.
Is the Thornton-Pickard College a good user camera?
It is a wooden plate camera of considerable age, so usability depends on the condition of the bellows, shutter and availability of plate holders rather than on the model itself.