Vredeborch N-Box
Art Deco Credentials ⓘ
Cameras with the last traces of Deco styling
Modest: Subtle and restrained Deco influence
- Produced after the main Art Deco period;
- Geometric Art Deco front plate;
- Fine textured pattern in leatherette covering;
- Chrome winder and embellishments;
Specification
| Manufacturer | : | Vredeborch |
|---|---|---|
| Produced | : | 1954 |
| Classification | : | Medium Format |
| Body Type | : | Box |
| Construction | : | Metal |
| Film Type | : | 120 |
| Film width | : | 62mm |
| Image Size | : | 2¼ x 3¼ in |
| No. of Images | : | 8 |
| Lens Type | : | Meniscus |
| Focus Type | : | Fixed |
| Focal Length | : | 90mm |
| Focus Range | : | 3m to inf. |
| Aperture Type | : | Multihole + yellow filter |
| Aperture | : | f/13, f/22 |
| Shutter Type | : | Rotary |
| Shutter Speeds | : | B,I*(1/40 sec) |
| Size (w x h x d) | : | 80 x 102 x 125 mm |
| Weight | : | 463g |
| * Measured on this camera | ||
Description
The N‑Box is a mid‑1950s German 120 roll‑film box camera manufactured by Vredeborch GmbH of Nordenham and sold under a distributor label. Mechanically it follows the standard Vrede‑Box pattern: a simple metal-bodied 6×9 camera with a fixed-focus meniscus lens, two brilliant viewfinders, and a basic rotary shutter offering instantaneous and Bulb settings. Many examples include a pull‑out tab for a second aperture and a built‑in yellow filter for black‑and‑white photography. Like other Vredeborch OEM models, the N‑Box differs only in its front‑plate branding; the underlying construction and operation are identical to the company’s other box cameras of the period.
The N-Box camera has typical controls for this era. The shutter can be operated in Instant(I) or Timed(T) mode. A small tab can be used to switch to timed mode. When used in timed mode, the shutter can be locked open using a small switch. The camera also provides a connection for a cable release. The aperture can be set to f/13(Tab in) or f/22(Tab out) by a pull out tab. A knob on the front allows a yellow filter to be swung into place. The yellow filter is used to enhance skies on B/W film.
Film is advance using a turn-key and the frame number is viewed through a red window on the back. It has two brilliant viewfinders for both landscape and portrait mode. There are two tripod mounts allowing stabilization in portrait or landscape orientation.
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How to Use
Find the User Manual for a similar model here:- Vrede Box Manual.
This camera takes 120 film which is easily available.
As the shutter speed is only 1/40s, it is advisable to use a tripod to get clear shake free images. However, holding it against a wall or other solid object would work as well. For quick snapshots, hold it firmly against your body.
If you don't want to bother with an exposure meter, follow the guide shown. It is based on the 'Sunny 16' rule. Film is so forgiving and will produce acceptable results even when overexposed by 2 or 3 stops or underexposed by 1 stop.
The tables assume that the sun is at least 30 degrees above the horizon - that's 10am - 5pm on a summers day (May - August) in the UK.
Remember that the exposure guide in the manual may not be helpful as it is based on the use of old film with a low ISO value.
Using ISO 100/125 film - shutter speed 1/40s
| Weather Conditions | Shadow Detail | Aperture | Exposure |
|---|---|---|---|
 SunnySnow/Sand | Dark with sharp edges | f/22 | +1 Stops Overexposed Acceptable |
| Sunny | Distinct | f/22 | Good |
 Slight Overcast | Soft around edges | f/13 | +1 Stop Overexposed Acceptable |
 Overcast | Barely visible | f/13 | Good |
 Heavy Overcast | None | f/13 | -1 Stop Underexposed Acceptable |
 Open Shade/Sunset | None | f/13 | -2 Stops Underexposed Not Acceptable |