Overview
This is a vintage Argus Electromatic 35mm slide projector housed in an integrated briefcase-style, two-tone carrying console. Anchored by regional auction and local classified sales of highly similar Argus Electromatic 550 and 560 models.
Identification
Argus Electromatic Model 565A 35mm Slide Projector, c. 1960s–1970s
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Story
Argus Incorporated was a prominent American manufacturer of cameras and photographic equipment based in Illinois and Michigan. The Electromatic series, produced in the 1960s and 1970s, was a staple of the mid-century American living room, designed with integrated briefcase-style housing for easy storage and transport. The secondary market for mid-century slide projectors is largely driven by nostalgia, prop houses, and a niche group of analog photography enthusiasts.
Maker / Origin
Unattributed
Condition & Value
The visible photos show the projector housed in its original integrated carrying console with instructional diagrams intact. The exterior exhibits typical age-related wear consistent with mid-century electronics.
Full Research
See what it's actually worth.
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Market Analysis
The secondary market for mid-century slide projectors is largely driven by nostalgia, prop houses, and a niche group of analog photography enthusiasts. Heavy, bulky electronics from this era are slow to move locally and expensive to ship, which suppresses online margins. Buyers prioritize working bulbs, smooth advance mechanisms, and clean aesthetic condition for display.
Value Drivers
▲ Integrated briefcase-style carrying console appeals to mid-century display aesthetics
▲ Original instructional diagrams printed under the lid add nostalgic charm
▲ Presence of the original power cord supports the mid-range $30 estimate
Concerns
▼ Unconfirmed functionality — a burned-out bulb or jammed advance mechanism restricts value to the $15 untested floor
▼ High shipping weight often deters online buyers, limiting the practical market to local pickup
Best Venue
List on a local classified platform like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist to avoid prohibitive shipping costs on a heavy item. Price at $30 for a local cash sale if untested. To target the $45 upper estimate, plug the unit in, confirm the bulb illuminates and the slide advance operates smoothly, and explicitly state 'tested and working' in the listing title.
Upside Potential
If the projector is fully tested, runs quietly, includes original accessories like a remote control or slide trays, and is marketed to analog photography enthusiasts online, it could realize the $45 high estimate.
▾Also found — market-range context
Related comps outside the valuation band· 2 comps
Surfaced during research but not used to anchor the valuation — wrong form, species, era, or no published price. Shown so the market range around this item is visible.
Also found — market-range context
Related comps outside the valuation band· 2 comps
- Argus Electromatic 560 Slide ProjectorSale on record but hammer price not published.No price
- Etsy / SilverliningByTravisVintage Argus Electromatic 550 Slide Projector Portable & Tested circa 1960's - Works - 14" Length - Great ConditionSale on record but hammer price not published.No price