Bell & Howell 2709 movie camera #668 with tripod used for Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ....

Description

Bell & Howell 2709 movie camera #668 with tripod used for Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ. (MGM, 1925) Vintage original purchased camera purchased April 8th, 1925 by Cinematographer Rene Guissart, the chief cameraman on Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ. The 1925 version of Ben-Hur was billed as the supreme motion picture masterpiece of all time. Years in the making and a 150,000 person cast. This was the most expensive movie of its time and the most expensive movie of the silent era. René Guissart directed the cinematography for the Ben-Hur naval scenes and the highlight of the film, the legendary chariot race. Guissart is screen credited as first cameraman on the picture. The usually noisy 2709 was upgraded and modified to be quiet enough to shoot a sound film. Also includes a wooden tripod with an Akeley Gyro gear head with adapter, side viewfinder and 400 ft. magazine. Mechanicals in working order.

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