Hi-
I have the chance to buy a fairly good Auto Graflex for $80.00. The shutter works, it has a bag type magazine and the lens and bellows are in good shape. Is it worth the money? Could I make a profit off of it in a couple of years when I tire of "playing" with it (this way I can tell my wife it is an investment)?

Thanks for your input.

Dave Yingst-Graphic User
Hoping to acquire my first Graflex

You don't mention the format -- 4X5 (or 2¼X3¼) would be a better buy than 3¼X4¼, just because of film availability -- nor the lens equipment, if any; but, in general, I have seen similar cameras in worse shape go for higher prices.

I don't know that anyone can predict the future "collectible" value of anything; it seems to rise and fall with the rate of inflation, investor confidence, and perhaps the sunspot cycle. I don't think you'd lose money on the deal, and you could be having a lot of fun in the meanwhile!

I would never use the 'for investment' routine with my wife, because I could never live it down! Perhaps first, I would buy her something worth a lot more than $80.00 and then, as an after thought, mention the camera.
If you can not afford that..... Don't Buy It.

<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: worldphoto on 2004-04-26 09:10 ]</font>

<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: worldphoto on 2004-04-26 11:48 ]</font>

I paid $95 for a 3x4 and found out it needs a new shutter. Didn't come with film holders or anything.

Thanks for the replies. Sorry I forgot to mention the camera is 4x5. About the only thing that concerns me is using the bag magazine. I don't have any experience with one but then again that is what makes this so much fun.

Dave

Maybe it is just my bad luck, but every time I go for a Graflex of this vintage (1910's - 1920's??) I find that the "working shutter" is a generous characterization at best. Usually they are crispy and flaky and shed black dandruff all over the place. Sometimes they cannot be tensioned all the way up due to excessive roll thickness, caused by aged curtain material that refuses to lie flat as it rolls up. Invariably there are somewhere between dozens and thousands of pinholes visible upon careful inspection. For playing around, such a machine is fine. If you really wish to use it without making excuses, then I would count on a shutter rebuild.

I have seen posts that say that the later shutters (postwar) tend to remain supple far longer, probably due to the use of improved synthetics.

But anyways, the bottom line is that, for me at least, it would be well worth $80 as a shelf piece, whether or not it needs a shutter.

Just one opinion - hope it helps!

JC

If you don't buy it, send me the info, I WILL!