Thrifting Cameras: Nimslo 3d
Nimslo 3D camera
A brief History
The Nimslo 3D camera, introduced in the 1980s, revolutionized photography by allowing users to capture three-dimensional images without needing special glasses. Using four lenses, the camera simultaneously captures four slightly offset images, which create a stunning stereoscopic effect when processed. Jerry Curtis Nims and Allen Kwok Wah Lo developed the Nimslo 3D. It debuted at Photokina in 1982, the world's leading photography trade show. Despite its innovation, it faced market struggles and was eventually discontinued in 1990.
For photography enthusiasts and collectors, owning a Nimslo 3D camera is a nostalgic yet creative investment. However, since these cameras are no longer manufactured, purchasing a used one requires careful consideration. This guide will help you navigate the process, from checking its condition to finding the best deals.
Assessing a Nimslo 3D camera
Top View of Nimslo 3D
Check the Exterior
When checking a camera, inspect the body for cracks, deep scratches, or impact damage. Check all four lenses for scratches, haze, fungus, or separation, as these can affect image quality. Ensure the viewfinder is clear and free of dust or fungus for a clean, unobstructed view. A careful inspection helps ensure the camera works properly.
This is also a great time to test the shutter by firing it at different speeds to ensure it operates consistently. Check the film advance and rewind functions to make sure they move smoothly without resistance.
Test Mechanical Functions
Inside of a Nimslo 3D
Having the camera’s manual can be incredibly helpful in understanding its settings and troubleshooting potential issues. A great resource for vintage camera manuals is butkus.org, where one person has dedicated time to scanning and preserving these manuals. If you find the site useful, consider supporting them as a thank-you for keeping these valuable resources available. Now with the Nimslo manual, we can check out the mechanics of the camera.
Test the shutter by firing it at different speeds and listening for any inconsistencies. Ensure the film advances and rewinds smoothly without resistance. If possible, inspect the aperture blades to make sure they adjust properly and aren’t stuck. If you notice there is no shutter curtain, don’t be alarmed—the Nimslo 3D camera doesn’t use a traditional mechanical focal plane shutter. Instead, it utilizes a unique system that creates four separate exposures by masking light through a specialized lens array.
Checking the Electronics
Missing battery Cover on a Nimslo 3D
The Nimslo 3D camera relies on two AA batteries for its built-in light meter. Start by checking the battery compartment for corrosion, which may affect functionality. Light corrosion can often be cleaned, but severe damage might signal internal electrical problems. In my case there was no corrosion but I was missing the battery chamber cover.
Whenever I’m searching for hard-to-find camera parts, I typically check eBay and KEH Camera. Unfortunately, I haven’t been able to find the missing piece I need, which has made it impossible to test the camera or even fire the shutter properly. Since the Nimslo 3D camera requires power to function, I can’t fully assess its condition until I locate the necessary part.
A well-maintained Nimslo 3D camera is a fantastic tool for analog photographers who love 3D effects, allowing for the creation of analog GIFs (which will be a whole other post—if I can find the cover). Taking the time to carefully inspect a used model before purchasing can help avoid disappointment later.
However, without the battery chamber, this test remains incomplete! Still, for just $9.99, it was worth it. I may end up selling it and even putting together a guide on how to sell the Nimslo 3D.
