The Nikonos 1, originally known as the Calypso, changed the world of photography and marine science. Designed by and for Jacques Cousteau, with the help of Nikon, it was the first underwater camera, capable of capturing still ocean life images at up to 165ft. Upon its release in 1961, it was a state of the [...]
The Nikonos 1, originally known as the Calypso, changed the world of photography and marine science. Designed by and for Jacques Cousteau, with the help of Nikon, it was the first underwater camera, capable of capturing still ocean life images at up to 165ft. Upon its release in 1961, it was a state of the art imaging device that came with an equally high price tag. The design was eventually made in Japan under the Nippon Kokagu label, producing the original model shown above.
The all metal body and machined housing makes this camera a piece of history and a piece of art. This exceedingly rare camera, shown above, is for sale on the indie craft house Etsy. At $180 it’s an expensive paper weight, but we’re sure an underwater photographer or aquarist would appreciate the significance of this vintage work of art.
[ @cephalapodcast ]
