Kodak Darkroom Timer Value Guide

The Kodak Darkroom Timer is a quintessential piece of mid-century photographic history, manufactured by Eastman Kodak in the United States between 1950 and 1960. Its vibrant red enameled metal body and precise 60-minute dial made it a staple for analog film processing during the golden age of photography.

What Is Kodak Darkroom Timer Worth?

The typical price range for Kodak Darkroom Timer is $40 - $50 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Operational status of the mechanical clockwork and the clarity of the audible alarm.
• Cosmetic condition of the red enamel, specifically looking for chips, rust, or fading.
• The presence of the original glass face without cracks or significant yellowing.
• Market demand for 1950s-1960s photographic memorabilia, typically ranging from $40 to $50.

How to Identify Kodak Darkroom Timer?

• Verify the presence of the original red enameled metal body and glass face cover.
• Check for the Eastman Kodak manufacturing marks and the 60-minute interval dial layout.
• Confirm the internal clockwork mechanism is mechanical rather than battery-operated.
• Look for the specific mid-century industrial design aesthetic characteristic of 1950s American lab equipment.

History of Kodak Darkroom Timer

During the golden age of analog photography, precision timing was crucial for successful film and paper processing in the darkroom. Eastman Kodak produced these sturdy, reliable mechanical timers to meet this need. Their distinctive design, often featuring bright colors like this red model, has made them popular collectibles representing mid-century photographic technology.