Many of those brands and the 70s to 80s diversity was based on standardized parts across brands, and fronting (1 manufacturer making multiple brands). I believe only 3 companies (Seiko being one) made shutters. Only 2 made irises. Oculars and prisms were by 3 or 4 companies. In-house was design, assembly, and sales. Also, the vast majority of the R&D in the industry—and profits—was on the film and processing side.
Brands could be niche and boutique back then because they could exploit small difference in mechanical design or use. Today, the "smart" in chip tech and software uniquely renders hardware diversification problematic. We have more apps processing photos than brands providing optical components.
I've owned 8 of those brands. I notice Kodak isn't on that list.
Brands could be niche and boutique back then because they could exploit small difference in mechanical design or use. Today, the "smart" in chip tech and software uniquely renders hardware diversification problematic. We have more apps processing photos than brands providing optical components.
I've owned 8 of those brands. I notice Kodak isn't on that list.