Nicholas Power’s projectors were, along with Edison’s machines, the first American projectors produced on a commercial scale.
They were extremely popular and a large number were exported to Britain and around the world. A dabbler in real estate before being involved with film presentation, Power was acting as projectionist at Koster & Bial’s Music Hall New York in the autumn of 1896 or spring of ’97, and later at a vaudeville theatre in Brooklyn.
Dismantling the intermittent movement of an Edison projector he was unable to re-assemble it in time for the evening show – and quit, either voluntarily or ‘by request’. Shortly afterwards he started a repair shop for Edison projectors, and in 1897 or ’98 developed his own machine, the Power’s Peerless Projector.
Few were sold, but shortly afterwards came the Power’s No. 1 and several subsequent models, with the No. 4 of 1905 selling thousands, and the No. 5 proving equally popular.
Power’s ‘Cameragraph’ projectors incorporated a novel variation of the Maltese cross, designed to speed up the pull-down of the film and thereby reduce flicker on the screen.
There are some missing parts, including the film magazines, shutter, lens board, original lens, lamp house and stand, yet most of the projector ‘head’ presented here, stands as it did in 1906. The finish on the projector head is ancient, rusty, original. A vintage wood and steel hand crank is available at extra cost and looks good in a display.
The movement is frozen and not turning at all. But it looks terrific and has that uncared for, circa 1906 look.
This incredible heavily patinated example of early 20th century 35mm hand crank cinema projection is perfect as a non working display in a collection or as a distinctive sculpture that stands on its own with gorgeous rusty 1906 patina. A rare example of early motion picture history.
The cosmetics are not cleaned and not restored and the projector is not complete. We include an incorrect vintage prop ‘lens’ that is tribute attached just for the “look”.
Because this piece is not restored and incomplete, we are offering this circa 1906 artifact at well below market price.
We will shine up the entire piece, at no extra charge, if desired.
Price WAS: $8999.00. NOW ON SALE: $3999.00
If you need a really correct and complete version of this head, we have one listed in the gallery here, so please search for “Power’s Cameragraph”
Please contact us for more information.
