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Thornton-pickardmfg. Co. Special Ruby Reflex

The Thornton-Pickard Special Ruby Reflex is a British-made large-format single-lens reflex plate camera from the early twentieth century, built around a leather-covered wooden body with a focal-plane shutter. It sat within Thornton-Pickard's Ruby Reflex line as a higher-specification variant aimed at serious plate photographers of its day.

At recent UK auction, hammer prices for the Special Ruby Reflex have been modest, with the two recorded sales in 2023 and 2024 falling in a £20–£30 range and a median around £25. As of today in 2026, that level reflects wholesale saleroom results for examples sold as decorative or project pieces rather than working cameras; a complete, cosmetically strong example with original lens and plate holders would likely sell for more than this recorded sample suggests.

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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: August 2024

Date Price Source
Aug 2024 £20 Special Auction Services
Feb 2024 £60 Special Auction Services
Aug 2023 £88 Flints Auctions
Apr 2023 £30 Special Auction Services
May 2003 £47 Christie's
Mar 1998 £46 Christie's
Mar 1998 £46 Christie's

Frequently asked questions

What is a Thornton-Pickard Special Ruby Reflex worth today?

Based on the limited UK auction record, recent hammer prices sit in the £20–£30 area, so the value of a typical project-grade example is modest; exceptional, fully working examples can sell for more.

How much does a Special Ruby Reflex sell for at auction?

The two recorded UK auction sales in 2023 and 2024 sold for £30 and £20 respectively, giving a median price of around £25 at hammer.

Is the Special Ruby Reflex a usable camera or a collector's item?

At this price level it is generally bought as a display or restoration piece; the focal-plane shutter and plate back can be made to work, but sourcing plates, holders and service is the main obstacle.

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