Hi. Can anyone advise on the maximum size of a lens a Graflex Crown Graphic can handle? I'm going to be getting the camera soon and am not sure a 200 is going to cut it for what I want (close up detail of waves, and other things in nature that I can't get as close to as I'd like). Not looking for macro.

If anyone can advise on specific lenses that could achieve this, that would be great as well. I'm not trying to go crazy, price wise, but it's been years since I've had consistent access to LF. Currently shooting Hassy...

Also if anyone has a manual or diagram of the Crown Graphic - or can at least advise on the size of the lens plate that would be great...

Thanks in advance!

Maximum extensions for 2x3, 3x4 and 4x5 Crown Graphics are, respectively, 7.75", 11.5", and 12.5". The longest standard issue lenses for them were 10"/5.6, 10"/5.6 and 15"/5.6 respectively, all telephotos.

Thanks, any suggestions on an appropriate, reasonably priced lens? It's a 4x5.

I've been out of that part of the market for quite a while so have no idea how much lenses you might want now sell for. Candidates include:

10" (250 mm)/5.6 TeleOptar/TeleRaptar
15" (380 mm)/5.6 TeleOptar/TeleRaptar

These were made by Wollensak, sold with Graflex and Wollensak badging.

240/5.5 TeleArton in #2 shutter. Also offered in #1 shutter, this version won't cover 4x5.
270/5.5 TeleArton
360/5.5 TeleArton

240, 270, 360 TeleXenar, all f/5.5. Older designs than the TeleArton, not as good.

270 Rotelar, max aperture depends on the shutter it is in

The best way to form an idea of prices is to search eBay for sold items.

Re lens boards, Pacemaker Graphic boards are stamped sheet metal. It is better to buy than to try to make, although people have had success with improvised wooden boards. www.mpex.com and www.skgrimes.com sell them and they're often offered on eBay.

Thanks, sorry for my late response