Vintage cameras are found for sale at auctions, antique dealers and through online sales.
The value of an antique is in the eye of the beholder and the current auction price. It's only worth what someone is willing to pay. Vintage cameras values range based on manufacturer, age, current condition and number produced. The rarest vintage cameras in the best conditions will fare the highest value. Many collectors treasure old cameras and seek them out through auctions and antique dealers.
Instructions
1. Locate the manufacturer, make and model information on the camera. Check the bottom of the camera or the front to see if it contains any identifying information. If you find the manufacturer and it is still in business, send the company an email to inquire where you can get help finding information about your camera.
2. Visit a local antiques appraiser with your camera. If you don't know any appraisers, visit appraisers.org to locate a credible appraiser in your region (see "References").
3. Go to a website such as classic-camera.com that contains a searchable database of classic cameras. Its database contains information about a variety of cameras, including their worth. The site also has a user forum where you can post an appraisal request along with photos of your camera.
4. Send a photo of your vintage camera, a description of the camera, background information, how you obtained it along with your contact information to "Country Living" magazine. You can email it to countryliving@hearst.com or mail to: Country Living 300 West 57th Street New York, NY 10019, Attention: Antique Appraisals.
5. Attend an Antique Roadshow's appraisal event. Events take place in multiple cities around the country. Bring your vintage camera and ask an expert determine its value. Obtain advance tickets for the event and expect long waits while there.
