The Scovill Waterbury View is a classic representation of the American tailboard pattern.

The 1885-86 example (left) is 100% original with an undrilled factory marked lens board and matching serial numbers (#521). Taking into consideration this 130+ year old camera is in new condition with nicely aged patina and a couple of tiny dings here-and-there, it could be looked at as antique "New Old Stock" (NOS).

What is interesting is these were typically sold as complete kits including a mounted lens, tripod, etc. So the chances of something like this surviving is very rare. Complete outfits were offered in 1892 for $12.00 (about $442 adjusted for 2026).

The 5 x 8" example (s/n 513) is constructed of mahogany rather than the better known golden oak finish. It has factory notching to accept an inner septum for stereo work. The 5 x 8" model was included in researching cameras made by Franklin Putnam. A comparison with the Marvel Camera can be seen on the Putnam Marvel webpage.