How to Use a View-Master

William Gruber and Harold Graves invented the View-Master in 1939. They designed it so people could enjoy pictures of exotic locations, but over the years it came to be regarded as a toy for children. Since it is a toy that is widely recognized, some large companies are using it in whimsical marketing efforts to kindle interest in their products. The simplicity of the View-Master appears to be the reason for its longevity.

Things You'll Need

• View-Master
• Reel

Instructions

1. Use two fingers to hold the reel on the paper section. Avoid touching the images.

2. Place the reel in the slot. If your View-Master has a scene title window under the reel slot, the text on the reel should be visible through it. Push the reel in as far as it will go.

3. Bring the View-Master up to your face and place the eyepieces against your eyes.

4. Look into the viewer to see the images on the reel. If the pictures are backward, take the reel out, turn it around and slide it into the slot again.

5. Press the lever to see the next picture. Repeat to see all the pictures on the reel.

6. Pull the reel out of the slot when you are finished. Repeat the steps above for other reels.

References

• View-Master Official Site

Resources

• Collectible View-Master: An Illustrated Reference and Value Guide by Brad Welsch