Request for appraisal - Kunik Petie

[IanS]

Hello,

I'd just like to point out that I am new to this (or any) forum. Hopefully I have posted in the right place.

I have inherited a small camera from (I believe) the late 1950's. I have identified it as a Kunik Petie Vanity. It is finished with a brown/tan marble effect leather. I would describe condition as good for its age, but not perfect. The camera incorporates a ladies compact and lipstick holder. These items are present but the mirror has some corrosion. The shutter appears to operate freely. The camera is complete with original box (poor condition) and original instruction manual (excellent condition).

Attached are a couple of photographs.

It would be much appreciated if someone would give me some indication of its value, and any suggestions as to the best way to sell it. A local antique shop offered me £10 (and said they had no idea about its value) but I can't help thinking its worth more.

[mauro.corneo]

Hello "IanS " look at your mail

[John Kratz]

Wow, £10!? I'm so glad you didn't accept that! Yes, I would say it's worth a bit more than that! At least a couple of zeros more!

[mauro.corneo]

Hello, Petie camera housed in a make-up compact. Front door opens to reveal mirror and powder. One top knob contains a lipstik, another provides storage for an extra roll of film. Beautiful art-deco marbelized finish in red,green,or blue. Chrome or gold-colored metal. Also made with colored-leatherette covering.Said to be made by Kreher & Bayer, Offenbach, West Germany. Kigu, a British maker of powder compacts, reportedly made some pre-production samples for the ensemble.
A few of Kigu's original sample cameras first went on auction in 1989,in original boxes. Record price of $ 3000 was set for blue/chrome version at Christie's famous December 1991 "Spy Camera " auction. New condition cameras have continued to appear regularly at auction. Normal range : $700-1000

[mauro.corneo]

I agree well said