Kodak No. 2 Folding Cartridge Hawkeye Model B Value Guide

The Kodak No. 2 Folding Cartridge Hawkeye Model B is a quintessential example of early 20th-century amateur photography, produced by Eastman Kodak to make portable roll film cameras accessible to the masses. Its simplified design and durable aluminum construction made it a staple for hobbyists during the interwar period, bridging the gap between professional gear and casual snapshots.

What Is Kodak No. 2 Folding Cartridge Hawkeye Model B Worth?

The typical price range for Kodak No. 2 Folding Cartridge Hawkeye Model B is $35 - $50 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition of the bellows: Cracks, pinholes, or dry rot significantly decrease the value for collectors and photographers.
• Mechanical functionality: A working shutter and smooth folding mechanism command the higher end of the $35-$50 price range.
• Cosmetic preservation: The state of the leatherette covering and the presence of any brassing on metal parts affect aesthetic appeal.
• Completeness: Original carrying cases or the inclusion of an empty take-up spool can add incremental value to the piece.

How to Identify Kodak No. 2 Folding Cartridge Hawkeye Model B?

• Check for the 'Model B' designation stamped into the leatherette or on the metal frame inside the camera back.
• Verify the presence of the original red bellows, which should be made of fabric and leatherette without light leaks.
• Look for the Kodak Hawkeye branding on the lens faceplate and the characteristic aluminum body construction.
• Confirm the camera uses 120 roll film, which was the standard for the No. 2 size during its 1920-1934 production run.

History of Kodak No. 2 Folding Cartridge Hawkeye Model B

Introduced by the Eastman Kodak Company, the Hawkeye series was designed to be an accessible and portable option for amateur photographers. The 'Model B' featured a simplified design compared to the more expensive Autographic series, helping to popularize photography as a hobby for the general public during the interwar period.