Carl Zeiss Jena Universal Palmos
The Carl Zeiss Jena Universal Palmos is an early 20th-century plate camera produced by Carl Zeiss Jena. It was positioned as a higher-end folding plate camera of its era, intended for serious photographers working with glass plates.
Public auction data for the Universal Palmos is thin, with a single recorded UK hammer result of £700 in 2020 — a wholesale saleroom price rather than a retail figure. With so few comparables, the camera's value today in 2026 is best treated as indicative; condition, completeness of the original lens and shutter, and the presence of plate holders will materially affect what one sells for.
Sales History
Prices shown are UK auction hammer results — the wholesale level achieved in the saleroom. Neither buyer’s nor seller’s commission is included. Dealer and retail asking prices are typically higher.
Prices updated: June 2020
| Date | Price | Source | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jun 2020 | EUR 700 | 🇦🇹 Leitz Auction | |
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Auction: Leitz Auction 36 (Lot AI_36_38342) Title: Carl Zeiss Jena Universal-Palmos + Protarlinse 'Nicht verkaufsfähig'
Description:
a very rare folding-bed camera in excellent condition, leather-covered aluminium body, removable back for portrait or landscape orientation, with unique Protarlinse 29cm no.126037+126038 - both front and rear element engraved additionally with 'Nicht Verkaufsfähig' (not for sale), mounted in Compur shutter (aperture scale engraved in old style in millimetre), with 4 double plate holders Estimate: EUR 1,400 - EUR 1,600 |
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Frequently asked questions
What is a Carl Zeiss Jena Universal Palmos worth?
Based on the limited UK auction record available, a Universal Palmos has sold for around £700 at hammer, though with only one tracked sale this should be treated as a single data point rather than an established market price.
How much does a Universal Palmos sell for at auction?
The one recorded UK auction sale realised £700, so a comparable example in similar condition would be expected in that region, with variation depending on lens, shutter function, and overall completeness.
Is the Universal Palmos a film camera?
No — it is a plate camera designed to use glass photographic plates rather than roll film, which is typical of cameras of its period.