MATCHBOX CAMERA

The Eastman Kodak Company developed and manufactured this camera for use by the Office of Strategic Services. It was made in the shape of a matchbox and could be camouflaged by adding a matchbox label appropriate for the country in which it was to be used. The camera, which uses 16mm film, was designed to be operated with a minimum of user-adjustable settings. It was deployed “behind the lines” by resistance personnel in World War II for target recording and propaganda photography. It featured rugged construction and controls which could be operated by “feel.”