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A snapshot of camera history

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Cameras have long been used to capture precious moments and record history, but people often forget the instruments themselves are a way to understand the past.

More than 100 vulnerable antique cameras will be on display at the Century Camera Exhibition at Plaza Hollywood, allowing visitors to learn how the style, function and importance of cameras have developed over time.

Exhibits include Germany's Leica I - the first ever 35mm camera produced in 1930 - and the earliest multi-functional camera, a two-in-one radio-camera made in 1979. Visitors interested in warfare will be thrilled to see the most popular models used in war zones during the second world war, and Japan's 3cm-long Petal, the smallest spy cam in the world.

Highlights of the show are definitely China's Red Flag 20 and Dongfeng. Both models, seen as national heirlooms by photography enthusiasts, reflect the eras they were created.

Renowned local camera collector David Chan Hung explained that the Chinese leaders' strong belief in making the country as powerful as its western counterparts brought about the production of the two high-quality models. Mr Chan said they wanted to prove that whatever westerners could do, the Chinese could do as well.

This competitiveness is seen in the name Dongfeng, or 'east wind', a name which is reminiscent of the old Chinese saying 'the east wind overtakes the west wind'.

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