History: This is a very rare and historical piece from the early 1850ies. Alfred Boulland was a early Daguerrotypist and also maker of photographic lenses which like Jamin, or Vallantin strived for international fame for his work.

The lens is  with 'A. Boulland - 149, Ry. de Constantine - A Belleville - 976'. Boulland was a highly respected photographer and manufacturer in his time.

Condition: The brass looks really nice and authentic here, there is only light wear (it is unpolished). The rack & pinion mechanism is complete and amazingly still working. The lens predates the waterhouse stop (which was patented in 1858). 

The most important thing: the glass is quite clear, and shows minor cleaning marks and two small edge chips on the front. There is no haze, fungus or anything that would diminish the optical qualitiy.

The lens has a focal lenght of 150mm at a speed of F3.8. It will work best for the 4x5 and smaller formats, showing the distinct petzval characteristic on the ground glass.


Lens comes with a flange and the original brass lenscap!



height: 11cm
width: 5.5cm
weight: 500gr

Insured and tracked shipping cost:

Germany - 10 eur
EU* - 20 eur
Worldwide - 70 eur

*(the site offers only 2 shipping variations, DE and worldwide. buyers from EU please either contact me beforehand for a reduced EU cost, or after buying so i can send a refund over the difference)

Importent Note: This item comes from my private collection and is around 100 years old (antique). I try my best to describe all the faults and major damage which are relevant for the function of this item. But the actuall item can show signs of wear and also some cosmetic blemishes/damage which is not described in the auction text! When buying this item the buyer agrees to this terms.