ABOUT US
Dear friends of the camera technology and its history, dear collectors,
When I had the idea of opening an auction house for cameras in 2001, 22 years ago, this was completely new territory for us. We had been internationally successful with the first and only Leica Shop in the world, founded in 1991, but auctions naturally opened a completely new spectrum. When we took over the famous Abring camera collection for sale, it was clear that this would only be possible through auctions. The very first auction in 2001 was already a great success. James Cornwall, who had closed his auction house in Cologne 2 years earlier after 20 years, was our auctioneer and collectors from all over the world attended.
In 2018, after a total of 34 successful auctions with numerous world record prices, I handed over the management of the WestLicht Photographica camera auctions to a concern, so I was sure that in the future I would dedicate myself to the Photography Museum WestLicht and the Photo Gallery OstLicht, which I founded in 2001, including the photography auctions. I was able to live my passion for camera technology with the permanent exhibition in the Museum WestLicht, which presents an overview of camera history from 1839 onwards, and a small and fine online shop (coelncameras.com).
Although I was often asked if I would like to organise a camera auction again in the spirit of the earlier events, where fun and enjoyment were the main focus, I refused to do so until the very end.
However, when I was recently offered a fantastic collection by a private enthusiast of camera technology, I could not resist the temptation. Especially as this man had acquired most of the pieces, he collected from me over the period of many years. He always attached great importance to perfect condition and originality. This is how a collection came into being, which I will now offer with great pleasure in an auction on 1 June 2023 from 2pm CEST in the OstLicht Photo Gallery. Our traditional OstLicht Photo Auction will take place on 2 June starting at 5pm CEST.
I hereby cordially invite you to come to Vienna or to participate as a remote bidder. It is the best time of the year to travel to our beautiful city, also Photo Vienna starts on this weekend.
Our auctioneer Niki Schauerhuber, who has proven himself over many years, and our team would like to welcome you.
With best regards, Peter Coeln and Team