Canadian Camera Company - Gem Glenco 1 - Incredibly Rare

This is an exceedingly rare piece of photographic history. In fact, you'd be hard-pressed to find an equal of this condition and level of care. But before I shovel praise onto this little-known company and this immaculate beauty, I'd like to discuss the sparse history of this deceptively important company.
The origins of this mysterious company are still fairly unknown. Not the founders, manufacturing location, or even ownership, is clear. There is anecdotal evidence that it was just an arm of the Rochester Optical Company, but without concrete evidence, I hesitate to concretely attribute this beautiful device with any historical company. Nonetheless, these devices were made with extreme pride and craftsmanship, evident with the incredible condition in which we find our burnished treasure.

Our model is called the Gem Glenco 1 and it was manufactured for a very short time in 1900-1901, this much is clear. It is a "hand and stand" camera, meaning it can be used while handheld, or mounted on a tripod. It was designed for 4" x 5" plates and was a diminutive size (well... when compared to what else was available at the time), measuring just 6.25" x 5.5" x 2.25". There were similar cameras made available in subsequent years, their model numbers following chronological order (not very imaginative, I know), although they were slightly larger. The model 2 and 5 were best-sellers and can still be found, in decent condition.
However, if you've tried to find some information on this gorgeous little Glenco model 1 camera, I wouldn't blame you for coming up blank. Other than a few museum pieces, very few of these models still exist, in their original condition, let alone examples that are functional. However, through what I can only assume is sheer luck, Curmudgeon & Klotz is thrilled to be able to provide this stunning piece of long-forgotten history for sale.

In terms of condition, it's staggeringly good. The bellows are true lamb or calf leather and are as supple as the day the camera was purchased. The case is in excellent condition and all the brass and wood is complete. Naturally, there is some burnishing to the brass and a few scratches on the mahogany wood, but come on... it IS 123 years old... even the shutter and all the shutter settings work perfectly. There is one unfortunate bit of deterioration that is beyond anyone's ability to save - the reflecting mirror. I've included a dedicated photo of the viewfinder to show what happens to the thinnest of mirrors when exposed to a century of wear.

Other than that small blemish, it's a staggering piece of true photographic history and an extremely rare camera that would become a deserving centerpiece to any photography collection.

As always, should you have any questions or comments, I'm always happy to respond to queries almost immediately. Thank you for visiting C&K!