Bidspirit auction | Rare Antique Coin-Operated ”The Quartoscope”

Rare Antique Coin-Operated ”The Quartoscope” Photoviewer - Early Arcade Peepshow Machine (ca.1900) - An exceptional and rare original coin-operated ”The Quartoscope” photoviewer, dating to the turn of the 20th century, circa 1895-1905. This early arcade machine represents one of the pioneering forms of visual entertainment, closely related to the Mutoscope and other pre-cinema viewing devices. Designed for use in fairgrounds, arcades, and seaside attractions, the Quartoscope allowed users to view photographic image sequences through a peephole viewer after inserting a coin. The machine is housed in an elegant quarter-sawn oak cabinet, raised on finely carved cabriole legs, and retains its original cast metal front panel with decorative relief and ”Drop Coin Here” instruction. Internally, the original mechanical viewing system with photographic cards is still present, offering a fascinating glimpse into early motion picture technology. Pieces of this type are highly sought after by collectors of coin-operated machines, early cinema history, and arcade antiques, and rarely appear on the open market-especially in such a complete and visually appealing form. A true museum-quality display piece with strong decorative and historical value. The machine is in working condition. Works on 5 euro cent coins. Dimensions (H x W x D): 147 x 55 x 50 cm. Location: The Netherlands, Tilburg. Video link: https://youtu.be/wE8LLhWjjBM