20th Century Fox "Marilyn Monroe" CineSimplex Model D Camera #6. ...

Description

20th Century Fox "Marilyn Monroe" CineSimplex Model D Camera #6. The CineSimplex Model D was truly built as a better choice than the heavily-blimped Mitchell cameras at other studios. It was extremely light. Indeed, the camera was so revolutionary that the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences awarded it a Class One Technical Academy Award. The camera cost $140,000 to build in 1940, a time when a Mitchell could be purchased for $15,000! Of the 17 CineSimplex Model D cameras designed and built for 20th Century Fox, only six still exist today. This #6 camera is the only example with its complete set of Bausch & Lomb Baltar lenses (25, 30, 35, 40, 50, 75 and 100mm) built specifically for this camera, matched to be optically perfect. Of particular importance, this #6 camera photographed more Marilyn Monroe films than any other, including, How To Marry A Millionaire, Let's Make Love, Bus Stop, River of No Return, Monkey Business, and her last film Something's Got To Give. 20th Century Fox assigned cameras to specific Directors of Photography. This #6 camera was assigned to Charles G. Clarke, ASC by the studio. Mr. Clarke's camera was the very first used to photograph in CinemaScope. All tests for the new process were done with #6 and it worked with Leon Shamroy's camera on The Robe. Comes with Mitchell head and wooden tripod with spreader, 20th Century Fox wooden lens box, (1) Bausch & Lomb CinemaScope lens and wooden case full of camera accessories with "Hugh Crawford Camera" (Clarke's assistant's) name painted on the lid. Comes with a letter of provenance from Roy H. Wagner, ASC. From the collection of Debbie Reynolds.

Heritage Auctions provides as much information as possible but strongly encourages in-person inspection. Condition statements are offered as general guidance only, not as complete representations of fact, and do not constitute a warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted but may be visible in the photos, which are considered part of the condition report. Lots estimated at $1,000 or less are not de-framed for inspection, and we may be unable to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and is not liable for damage to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or artwork that has shifted in the frame. All lots are sold "AS IS" under our Terms & Conditions of Auction.