Graflex.org

[perrycas]

I want to buy a graflex to use for landscape photograpy. I have been combing the 'G' site (spot?) for information as to just which one.
Havent been very successful finding 'super'information. On the face of it they (the super graph and the super speed) look smaller and lighter but they also seem to have a few departures from what might be called the tried and true of the older models. I'd appreciate any pros and cons that amyone would like to share with me re these models. I mention both as i really havent decided whether or not I want a coal plane shutter and to be honest it will probably end up being a matter of what oresents itself. Unless of course there are real reasons that should prejudice me against either (or even both)
Thanks
Perry

[Les]

First off, the Super Series is heavier than a Crown or Speed Graphic. They are slightly larger, because they have a rotating back. This is a nice feature as it allows you to use the front rise with vertical pictures... Crowns can take verticals, with very limited movements.

Second, neither The Super or Super Speed have a focal plane shutter. The Super Speed Graphic is a Super Graphic with the Graflex 1000 leaf shutter. They aren't the most realiable shutter and getting them repaired is difficult and expensive.

Third. The Super Series eliminated the linked rails inside the body, so any wide angle lens (90mm or shorter) will be a right royal pain to focus (you'll have to push and pull the front standard, then lock it down, which causes it to move slightly, messing up the focus).


So it's a toss up between a Super Graphic and a Pacemaker Crown. The Crown will handle wide angle lenses better, but not vertical pictures with movements. The Super will handle vertical pictures with movements as long as it's a normal or longer lens.

[perrycas]

thanks Les I think you have answered my question pretty well. I think I might look for a Crown instead.