R. D. Gray (New York, NY)
Rapid Symmetrical Periscope/Rapid Wide Angle Lens - c.1880's-c.1890's
Notes:
R.D. Gray used the pseudonym "Periscopic" or "Periscope" for their rectilinear (symmetrical two achromat) lenses. Gray's Rapid Symmetrical Periscopic Wide Angle Lens was a fairly popular wide angle lens of the 1890's. As its name states, it was a symmetrical rapid rectilinear type lens with a coverage of 85°. Sometimes it is marked as the engraving above, but more often it is marked "Periscope R.D. Gray N. Y" in three lines, and the serial number at right angles to the left of the three lines. There was also a Gray's Extreme Wide Angle Periscopic Lens, which had a coverage of 115°.
References:
The International Annual of Anthony's Photographic Bulletin,
Vol. I, 1888, W. J. Harrison and A. H.
Elliot, eds., E. & H. T. Anthony & Co. (New York, NY), July 1888, ads p.
21
The International Annual Anthony's Photographic Bulletin, Vol. I,
1889, W. J. Harrison
and A. H. Elliot, eds., E. & H. T. Anthony & Co. (New York, NY), 1889,
ads p. 52
The International Annual Anthony's Photographic Bulletin, Vol. III,
1890-1891, W. J. Harrison and A. H. Elliot, eds.,
E. & H. T. Anthony & Co. (New York, NY), 1890, ads p.
131
Descriptive Catalogue of Photographic Apparatus
and Supplies, G. Gennert
(New York, NY), c. 1893, p. 11
Illustrated Catalogue of Photographic Equipments and Materials for
Amateurs, E. & H.T. Anthony & Co. (New York, NY), February, 1898, p.
52
Back to Lenses
