Doryucameraco. Doryu 2-16
The Doryu 2-16 is a Japanese subminiature camera produced by Doryu Camera Co. in the 1950s, styled in the form of a pistol or pistol-grip device and using 16mm film. It was made in small numbers and is primarily encountered today as a collector's piece rather than a practical user camera.
At UK auction, hammer prices for the Doryu 2-16 have ranged from about £9,500 to £16,000, with a median near £12,000 based on the limited records available. Values at saleroom level today are highly condition-sensitive and driven by rarity and completeness of accessories, so what a Doryu 2-16 sells for can vary widely between examples.
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: November 2023
| Date | Price | Source | |
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| Nov 2023 | EUR 12,000 | 🇦🇹 Leitz Auction | |
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Auction: Leitz Auction 43 (Lot A00366) Title: Doryu 2-16 Pistol Camera
Description:
16mm, pistol subminiature camera of unusual design for 10x10mm exposures with bullet-shaped flash cartridge, very early example with Hokutar lens 2.7/17mm no.2803, brown wooden grip, in fine condition. Estimate: EUR 10,000 - EUR 12,000 |
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| Jun 2008 | EUR 9,500 | 🇦🇹 Leitz Auction | |
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Auction: Leitz Auction 13 (Lot AI_13_16724) Title: Doryu 2-16 Flashcamera
Description:
16mm, pistol subminiature camera of unusual design for 10x10mm exposures with bullet shaped flash cartridge, Dorymar wide angle lens 2.5/17mm no.D25053, in very good original condition Estimate: EUR 10,000 - EUR 12,000 |
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| Jan 2001 | £16,450 | 🇬🇧 Christie's | |
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Auction: CAMERAS AND PHOTOGRAPHIC EQUIPMENT (Lot 278) Title: Doryu 2-16 gun camera no. 1027
Description:
Doryu 2-16 gun camera no. 1027 Estimate: £4,000 - £6,000 |
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Frequently asked questions
What is a Doryu 2-16 worth today?
Based on recorded UK auction hammer results, a Doryu 2-16 is typically worth in the region of £9,500 to £16,000, with condition and completeness strongly influencing the final price.
How much does a Doryu 2-16 sell for at auction?
Recent and historical UK auction hammer prices for the Doryu 2-16 cluster around £12,000, though individual examples have sold for as little as roughly £9,500 and as much as about £16,000.
Why is the Doryu 2-16 so valuable?
Its value reflects very limited production in 1950s Japan and its unusual pistol-form design, which together make it scarce and sought after by subminiature and novelty camera collectors.