Original Japanese WWII Naval Aviation Type 99 Small Aerial Camera by Konishiroku of Tokyo in Case - Serial 863

Original Item. Only One Available. The Type 99 Handheld Aerial Camera (15cm) (九九式航空写真機十五糎) was produced for the Japanese Navy by Rokuoh-sha (and later Konishiroku) and by Fuji Shashin Film. As was usual practice with the Japanese military ordnance of the time, the name "type 99" stands for year 2599 in the Japanese imperial calendar, i.e. 1939. A recent Japanese source says that the introduction of the camera was plagued with reliability problems, and it only went in full service around 1943.

The camera has a folding frame finder at the top, and wooden handles on both sides of the body. The shutter is of the focal-plane type, with horizontally running curtains. It normally gives 1/75, 1/150, 1/250 and 1/400 speeds, selected by a wheel at the top. (The American report mentions 1/25 to 1/500 speeds, perhaps by mistake.)[18] The main release has the shape of a trigger, actioned by the right index. The film is advanced and the shutter is wound by turning the right-hand handle by 90 degrees twice.[19][6] The camera has an automatic exposure counter, either at the top left or to the right of the viewfinder. The back is fully removable and is locked by two keys, with open (開) and close (閉) indications.

It is said that two versions were made, one for aerial use only and the other for both aerial and terrestrial use. Variations have been observed in the surviving camera bodies, which are described in the specific entry on the camera. The surviving cameras are fitted with Hexar Ser.1B 15cm f/4.5.The lens is attached to the camera by four screws and has three prongs at the front for filter attachment. The aperture is controlled by a large ring at the front of the outer lens cone, connected to the lens diaphragm via a lever.

This example retains its data plate to the bottom, denoting the serial number 863. The lens is marked Konishiroku Tokyo No. 3795 Hexar Ser. 1B 1:4.5 f=15cm. The flip-up sight works great and the paint has gorgeous crazing. This camera has been very well-cared for, and the wooden handles have matured to a lovely cherry color. 

The original transit case retains the data sheet on the interior lid, which shows the written serial number 863, confirming this to be a matching set. The case measures 14 x 10 ½ x 9” and show very heavy wear to the exterior with paint chipping and oxidation. The leather carry handle is intact, but we would not recommend using it as it will likely break with use.

A fantastic Japanese Navy aerial camera, ready for further research and display!