I just purchased a Speed Graphic that is pre-1940. I am a beginner so I don't want my questions to seem completely ignorant.

Will this camera work as well as let's say an Anniversary Speed Graphic (a post 1950's camera)? Also, what model do I have?

Thank You For All Replies

Hi.

You have what's known as the Pre-Anniversary model Speed Graphic (from your description). the Anny model was made from 1940 thru 47 I believe, so a post 1950 would be a Pacemaker Speed (or Crown) Graphic.

There's no reason an older Graphic won't work as well as a newer one assuming they're in similiar condition. Between the Pre-Anny model, and the Anny, about the only major differences are that you won't have a drop bed (below the normal 90 degree open position), and the focusing track is only on the door, it's not extended into the body of the camera as in the anny and pacemaker models.

You say you already have the camera, so why not use it a bit, and see if these things bother you? Best case, it doesn't, and worst case you end up like some of us here that have many examples of them!

-Mike

<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: MikeS on 2005-05-19 02:21 ]</font>