Kodak Brownie Hawkeye Camera
Kodak Brownie Hawkeye Camera
The Kodak Brownie Hawkeye camera was one of the many Kodak ‘Brownie’ cameras that Eastman Kodak (Rochester, NY) manufactured between the 1900’s and well into the 20th Century. These cameras shared the ‘Brownie’ name, but ranged from box cameras, to folding cameras, and later, movie cameras. Kodak Brownie box cameras were sold at inexpensive prices to the average consumer who took ‘everyday’ photos.
The Hawkeye model debuted in 1949 and its production lasted through 1951. This Bakelite box camera produced twelve 2¼” by 2¼” images on 620 spool film. It sold extremely well and acquired popularity for its sleek design and simple minimalist features, such as a single-element non-focusing meniscus lens and a simple rotary shutter that were easy to operate. Its size and weight were great for your average user and had a convenient strap at the top.
In 1950, Kodak introduced the Kodak Brownie Hawkeye Flash model. This model was the same as the Kodak Brownie Hawkeye but added a new feature to the existing design, a “Kodalite Flasholder” accessory that synchronized with the shutter. Production of the Flash model seized in 1961, but both models are popular collector’s items, as well as fun and efficient cameras that photographers still enjoy using today.
