Ensign Full-Vue

Ensign Full-Vue (Metal Model)

The Ensign Full-Vue is one of the most iconic and stylish British cameras ever produced, hailing from the Houghton-Butcher factory in London. This particular version, made in England during the late 1940s and early 1950s, features a distinctive Art Deco-inspired "streamlined" metal body that sets it apart from traditional box cameras. The Full-Vue is celebrated for its exceptionally large, brilliant viewfinder, which gives photographers a bright, clear preview of their composition. Designed for simplicity and elegance, it captures large 6x6 images on 120 roll film, offering a unique bridge between historical box camera functionality and modern mid-century design.

Key Features

• Brand: Ensign (Houghton-Butcher)

• Model: Full-Vue (Post-war Metal Version)

• Lens: Ensign All-Distance Lens

• Film Format: 120 Roll Film (6x6cm negatives)

• Viewfinder: Oversized "Brilliant" waist-level finder

• Shutter: Simple instantaneous and Time (T) settings

• Focus System: Two-position "All-Distance" focusing (3ft-10ft and 10ft-Infinity)

• Construction: Pressed steel body with a stylish crinkle finish

• Origin: Made in England

Condition Report

• Body: Used – Good condition. Shows normal signs of age and vintage character typical for a metal camera of this era.

• Sensor/Optics: The large viewfinder and taking lens are in good used condition.

• Mechanics/Electronics: Fully operational. The shutter mechanism and film winding system have been tested.

Specialist Note "The Ensign Full-Vue is a masterpiece of industrial design. While many box cameras from this era feel like simple tools, the Full-Vue feels like a piece of art. The standout feature is undoubtedly the viewfinder; it is incredibly bright and large, making it a joy to compose shots even compared to more expensive TLRs. It is the perfect camera for the 'Slow Photography' movement—it forces you to slow down, look through that beautiful finder, and capture a moment on 120 film with true British character."

What's Included

• Ensign Full-Vue Camera

• Built-in Neck Strap Eyelets

Technical Specifications

• Camera Type: Large Viewfinder Box Camera

• Film Type: 120 Roll Film

• Power: Fully mechanical (no batteries required)

• Aperture: Fixed (approx. f/11)