Wacky Pathé reflex portable

[PeterF]

I just found this crazy beast of a portable, and thought I'd share it with you.

It's an American Pathé portable. Huge and heavy, with three external leather handles (implying you might need help to carry it), it's a bit reminiscent of the clunky Edison Army & Navy model for field use of the WWI military. But this one's case is less robust and much more luggage-like, and as a US made model is unlikely made for military use.

Does anyone have any US Pathé catalog materials which might help date this machine?

[Curt A]

It's an early '20s model designed to be strapped or bolted to the rear bumper of your Ford roadster... Think of it as an early tailgating accessory.

[PeterF]

How does the bolting take place? Or are you being figurative?

[Curt A]

You know I was joking, right???

[PeterF]

Now I do.