Hello,
I just impulsively purchased a 60s era military issue Super Speed Graphic on ebay. I wish to have this camera checked over and serviced before experimenting with it.
Can you make any recommendations? I live in the Evanston/Chicago area.
Also, I could use some instruction. All recommendations are greatly appreciated.
Susan

You don't mention how much photo experience you may have, but in general here's the standard suggestions:

Buy Steve Simmons book "Using the View Camera" for a general explanation of view cameras and using movements.

Buy the book "Graphic Graflex Photography" by Morgan & Lester and make sure you get an 11th edition as that will have info on the Super.

Go to http://www.craigcamera.com/default.htm
and but a copy of the original instruction manual id you want. It has some useful info in it and it's nice to have.

Go here http://www.butzi.net/articles/filmload.htm
to learn how to load film holders.

Read through all the info on this site as just about every question you could think of is answer here, either on the site in general or in the forums...

As far as a CLA (clean, lub, adjust) on the camera, the only one who if recommened and actually has the experience and parts is Fred Lustig. You can find his info on this site. He has no internet access...

And if you have any specific questions, ask

Thanks for speedy and thorough reply! I can't wait to get started and love this site.
susan

There's a good deal of photographic history and expertise in the greater Chicagoland area, and you may well find someone who can check out your camera to determine whether it is in good working order and, if not, what needs to be done. If I were doing it, I'd start by dropping into Central Camera to inquire about film and other things you may need. They've been in business for a hundred years, and know a good deal about equipment.

Just about any competent camera technician can test the shutter and, if necessary, perform a cleaning, lubrication and adjustment. The older ones may be familiar with the "Super" in general. The problem only arises if you need a part!

Fred Lustig is, indeed, a pearl beyond price, but there may be no need to get involved in boxing and shipping your camera to him until you know that you have to.

Great advice. Pleased to find that Central deals w vintage camera stuff. -S

Central Camera in the loop will give you some good info, look up the man at the darkroom counter named Isahia(Isayah). He used to be photog for the Chicago Times, I beleive he has a Speed and uses it still. Good Luck !!!

Please send condolences! Although my dear husband was kind enough to pick up my "new" Super Speed from Central Camera--HE LEFT IT ON THE TRAIN. Serial # 59. Thanks to all. Still am enjoying navigating the site.

What a Cad! He deserves lumps of coal in his stocking this Christmas.

Ouch, that's terrible news...

He deserves less than coal.

I think as penance, he should replace the camera, along with a nice 90mm extra lens, a Polaroid 545i back and some boxes of film!!!

You certainly have my condolences... My cameras are like friends or children and couldn't stand the thought of losing one... okay, yeah I'm a bit strange

I would do something really rude to him. I join you in mourning your departed camera. I hope some kind soul tries to return it.

Oh, man, I feel sorry for MR SB...