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Television prismatic optical effects unit, formerly used by ATV, 1967-1977. A large metal and plywood frame with a set of different types of circular multiple image mult-sector prisms which mount into it - used for creating multi-image and 'kaleidoscopic' effects by placing the unit in front of the television camera lens. A moving 'kaleidoscopic' effect can be created by a studio technician turning a crank handle (connected to a leather belt) at the desired speed which rotates the prism. 'Six' interchangeable prisms, which were acquired with the unit, can create different numbers of simultaenous and/or concentric images of the same scene. These effects were frequently used in music videos of the 1960s-1980s, and also on 'live' pop music programmes such as 'Top of the Pops'. This particular unit is believed to have been the one used in the production of Queen's famous 'Bohemian Rhapsody' video during the chorus sequences where multiple images of the group appear simultaneously.

ATV television prismatic optical effects unit, c 1972

1967-1977
Wooden case with leather carry strap on top. Glass panels front and back, interior lined with green felt. Label stuck on top '4'. Part of television prismatic optical effects unit, formerly used by ATV, 1967-1977.and believed to have been used in the production of the video for 'Bohemian Rhapsody' by Queen.

Part of ATV television prismatic optical effects unit

1967-1977
Part: Television prismatic optical effects unit, formerly used by ATV, 1967-1977. Possibly believed to have been used in the production of the video for 'Bohemian Rhapsody' by Queen.

ATV television prismatic optical effects unit, c 1972

1967-1977
Part: Television prismatic optical effects unit, formerly used by ATV, 1967-1977. Possibly believed to have been used in the production of the video for 'Bohemian Rhapsody' by Queen.

ATV television prismatic optical effects unit, c 1972

1967-1977
Part: Television prismatic optical effects unit, formerly used by ATV, 1967-1977. Possibly believed to have been used in the production of the video for 'Bohemian Rhapsody' by Queen.

ATV television prismatic optical effects unit, c 1972

1967-1977
Frame for Television prismatic optical effects unit, formerly used by ATV, 1967-1977. Possibly believed to have been used in the production of the video for 'Bohemian Rhapsody' by Queen. A large metal and plywood frame with a set of different types of circular multiple image mult-sector prisms which mount into it - used for creating multi-image and 'kaleidoscopic' effects by placing the unit in front of the television camera lens.

Frame for ATV television prismatic optical effects unit, c 1972

1967-1977
Part: Television prismatic optical effects unit, formerly used by ATV, 1967-1977. Possibly believed to have been used in the production of the video for 'Bohemian Rhapsody' by Queen.

ATV television prismatic optical effects unit, c 1972

1967-1977
Wooden case numbered ‘1’, containing a circular multiple image multi-sector prism. Formerly used by ATV, 1967-1977, for creating multi-image and ‘kaleidoscopic’ effects by placing the unit in front of the television camera lens. Believed to have been used in the production of Queen’s famous 'Bohemian Rhapsody' video during the chorus sequences where multiple images of the group appear simultaneously.

ATV Television Prismatic Optical Effects Unit

1967-1977