Antique Kodak Vest Pocket Autographic Camera, Usa 1917–1923

This Kodak Vest Pocket Autographic, manufactured in Rochester, New York, USA, between 1917 and 1923, is one of the most iconic cameras in Kodak’s history. Created by the Eastman Kodak Company, it revolutionised portable photography thanks to its compact size, fine engineering and the Autographic function, which allowed users to write notes, places or dates directly on the film, making every image tell its own story.

This example remains in working order, although it has not been tested with film, and stands out for being complete—an uncommon feature among surviving units. It retains its original metal stylus, also known as the autographic pencil, fitted into its rear holder, which was used to inscribe notes onto the negative through the autographic window. It is a fully intact camera that preserves the essence and spirit of its era.

The body shows the classic textured black finish, with the original inscription “Eastman Kodak Co. Rochester, N.Y., U.S.A.” engraved on the shutter, unmistakable proof of its American origin. Its extendable bellows mechanism and scissor-style metal struts unfold smoothly, revealing a design that balances robustness and precision. The Kodak Ball Bearing Shutter and its original lens deliver that warm light and soft blur typical of early 20th-century photographs.

It includes a yellow-to-white graduated filter, a rare accessory highly appreciated both for its aesthetic and technical value, and an original Kodak No. 127 film roll, now a collectible piece that reinforces the integrity of the set. Everything is in place, making this camera a complete, appealing and well-preserved piece.

Measuring 12 cm high by 6.5 cm wide, it was the ideal companion for travellers and soldiers who wished to capture the world from their own pocket. Indeed, it was known as “The Soldier’s Kodak”, though it was equally the camera of adventurers and travellers. It was made to fit in any pocket, even a vest pocket.

More than a century later, this camera remains a symbol of mechanical elegance, precision and adventurous spirit. It is perfect to decorate a vintage studio, enrich a photographic collection or offer as a gift to a lover of the history of photography. To own it is to hold an authentic piece of Kodak’s evolution.

Dimensions: 12 cm × 6.5 cm (4.72 in × 2.56 in).

History of the Kodak Vest Pocket Autographic

The Kodak Vest Pocket Autographic, introduced in 1915, transformed personal photography. In its American version produced in Rochester, N.Y., between 1917 and 1923, it reached its highest technical refinement. Compact, reliable and elegant, it became the camera of choice for those who wanted to document their lives in style.

The Autographic system was a stroke of genius by Kodak: by means of a metal stylus, the user could write directly on the film a date, a place or a dedication. When developed, those inscriptions appeared on the photograph, making each image unique.

Its design and manufacture embodied George Eastman’s vision of making photography accessible to everyone. Produced at Kodak’s main plant in Rochester, New York, it became a worldwide success, paving the way for 20th-century pocket cameras.

Today, the Vest Pocket Autographic is regarded as an icon in the history of photography, a symbol of American ingenuity and the technical beauty that defines Kodak. We are professional antique dealers. To see more photos of this item, Please click on this link:

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