WWII Japanese SK-100 Aerial Camera War Trophy BG James J. Carnes Tele-Hexar 40cm For Sale

A Museum-Grade Artifact:This is an extraordinary opportunity to own a piece of documented WWII aviation history. The SK-100 (Type 100 Small Aerial Camera) was the high-altitude reconnaissance workhorse of the Imperial Japanese Army Air Force (IJAAF). Unlike common handheld "gun-style" cameras, the SK-100 was a mission-specific tool designed for precision terrain mapping and strategic troop movement identification.

What elevates this unit to a premier historical artifact is its direct link to Brigadier General James Jewett Carnes.

• The Transit Chest: The original cedar box features hand-painted addresses for Lt. Richard C. Carnes and Col. James J. Carnes (later BG).

• "War Trophy" Status: The chest is explicitly marked "WAR TROPHY" and "CERTIFICATE ENCLOSED," reflecting its status as a captured piece of enemy equipment brought home by a high-ranking officer. (There is no certification in the box)

• Oklahoma Connection: Includes a vintage mid-century shipping label from Jacoby's Photo Shop in Oklahoma City, adding a 50+ year layer of local history to the piece.

• More provenance notes included below.

• Body Markings: Features the Stylized Cherry Blossom (Sakura), the official acceptance mark of the Imperial Japanese Army, ID plate (Serial No. 2515),deep-stamped Imperial Japanese Army acceptance marks, and the Shōwa era mark.

• Primary Lens: Hexar 20cm (200mm) f/3.5 (Serial No. 4526).

• The "Big Glass": Includes the highly rare Tele-Hexar 40cm (400mm) f/5.6. This specialized tele-lens was used for high-altitude detail shots. In the world of vintage Japanese optics, the 40cm lens is a significant value driver.

• Mechanicals: The shutter mechanism fires correctly (I only tried it once); the flip-up metal viewfinder is fully functional.

• Optics: The glass is exceptionally well-preserved for its age.

• Transit Chest: A vintage dovetail-jointed cedar box with a wonderful aged wood aroma. It features all eight original metal corner protectors and original hardware.

• Note: One rope handle is missing; the box shows age-appropriate cracking but remains structurally sound.

The Collection: A Legacy of Aviation & Engineering

This unique item is part of a significant private estate acquired from adistinguished WWII Veteran Pilotand lifelong retiree of aprominent electrical company.This individual's career spanned the golden age of American electronics and aviation. The collection was moved directly from his secure, private storage into my ownclimate-controlled, smoke-free facility, where it has been carefully preserved and cataloged. To maintain the integrity of the collection's history, I can provide aLetter of Provenanceupon request, detailing the estate and chain of custody for your historical records.

About the Seller

I am a dedicated student of history and a professional working within thefilm and music industries. My passion for collecting is driven by a desire to learn; I spend a great deal of time studying the engineering and cultural significance of the pieces I acquire.While some items are kept for my personal collection or sold to fund future acquisitions, I offer these pieces to the public with the hope they will go to collectors and technicians who appreciate their historical "soul." Whether you are looking for a rare piece of gear to restore or a unique item for your own collection, I strive to provide a transparent and professional experience.

Important Note on Historical Memorabilia

When offering items of German or Japanese origin from the WWII era, I do so strictly for the purposes of historical research, museum display, and educational preservation.I am a firm supporter of American diversity and the inclusive values our veterans fought to defend. As such, I will not knowingly do business with any individuals or collectors who subscribe to the agendas of our historical adversaries or ideologies that stand in opposition to those values. I offer these artifacts only to those who will respect and appreciate the history of the Allied victory and the preservation of the past without glorification.

Technical Condition & Testing

Because much of this gear is vintage, I approach testing with transparency:

• Testing Performed:Most items undergo a basic "power-on" test and a check of external controls.

• Technical Limitations:I do not have the specialized laboratory equipment or calibration tools required to verify 100% factory specifications or long-term circuit stability.

• Custom Requests:I am happy to assist serious buyers with specific requests. If you need amultimeter readingon a specific terminal or high-detail photos of internal circuitry, please message me.

• Used/Parts Disclaimer:If listed as "Used," the item is functional to the best of my basic testing. If listed for "Parts/Not Working," it is sold strictly for restoration or as a donor unit. Neither condition is an indication that the item is "non-functional" unless specifically noted in the above description.

Shipping & Handling

Given my background in production and sound, I understand how fragile vintage electronics can be. I use professional-grade packing materials to ensure these historical artifacts arrive in the same condition they left my facility.