Posted by Kent on October 19, 2000 at 18:45:38:
In Reply to: Re: Need advise on purchase of 4x5 Speed Graphic posted by Alec on October 19, 2000 at 17:01:07:
I am a sucker for a pretty camera and a pretty girl.
Makes me likely to make unwise choices.
I have made a few. I do want a user and can't
justify a camera just to sit on my shelf and gather
dust. And you're correct I don't need the Speed.
I have been sold on the fact that you can use
barrel lenses but in truth I never see a barrel lens
of any quality available on Ebay.
And I am not too attached to the focuscope.
If it didn't help the Rangefinder significantly,
and the one I installed on my Mini Speed did NOT.
I would probably sell it and get back ~$60 of
my investment in the 4x5. The focuscope I
put on my Mini Speed just dims the image and
provides ~1.33 magnification. Even though
mine collapses I could not get the diopter to
help me "focus" the two images and I prefer
the brighter image when the Focuscope is off.
It has questionable value so, like I said, I'de
probably sell it.
I do prefer the Graflok back although I don't
know why I would use the 4x5 to give me a
2x3 negative except that there are more lenses
available for the larger lens board of the 4x5
than are compatible with the little 2x3 lensboard.
To tell the truth, I am not entirely happy with
either of my Graplex Roll Film Holders (22 and 23)
The 22 does not have the pin rollers and I wonder
if it holds the film flat. The 23 does have the pin
rollers but I've experienced light leaks with it.
And while I like the antique quality of the
Speed and Crown Graphics I also prefer the
modern lens quality and the modern shutters.
So your advise to look for a Pacemaker or
a Super Speed (do they make a Super Crown?)
I take to heart. Some part of me will grieve the
loss of this old and obviously well cared-for or
little-used jewel. It surely is beautiful. I under-
stand why people have cameras just for display.
But your advise is right on. Have I said lately
how much I really like this board?
Warmest regards,
Kent
So thank you again Alec
: Kent
: The camera is pretty. But, if you want a "user",
: I would recommend looking for a Pacemaker. Also,
: do you really want a Speed? Do you have a need
: for the focal plane shutter? To me, its just
: something else to go wrong, and it adds to the
: weight!
: Don't get hung up on the focuscope. Stephen
: Shuart advertises them all the time for $25.
: Besides, from what I can tell, that may not even
: be the latest focuscope. The best model had a
: collapsing, telescoping feature [good if your
: camera gets bumped while you are focusing], and
: that one just looks like the rigid one to me.
: Finally, you'll sure be able to use more
: accessories with the Pacemaker if you get one with
: a Graflok back. Opens the door to roll holders,
: etc.
: No doubt it is pretty, and a collector might well
: find it worthwhile. I've seen awfully good
: looking Pacemakers go for much less - with newer
: glass and shutters.