Graflex.org

matita · Joined: 05 Oct 2010 Posts: 2

Hello everyone, I recently bought a Graflex from ebay but it looks like the seller (who was selling the camera as in perfectly working condition and with 2 backs) knew less than me about this camera....
I tried to gather as much information as possible in the last 2 days and if I figured it out right, my camera should be a Pre-Anniversary Speed Graphic.
Unfortunately the shutter in the lens is not working, and the 2 things that were supposed to be the backs are actually the ground glass and a 6 sheet film pack adaptor with few parts missing. (I'm already dealing with the ebayer about that....)
If we exclude the problems I really do like a lot the camera and I'd like to bring it back to full working condition but I'm really confused, I would appreciate if I could get some of your help.
Here some picture that might help you to help me

What I need to know is:
-Is my camera really a Pre anniversary as I think?
-I'd like to get one of those ground glass that doesn't need to be removed by the camera when I put the film, one of those that raises when you insert the film holder, is it this one? http://cgi.ebay.com/Graflex-Crown-Speed-4x5-Graphic-Focus-Panel-/260672888261?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3cb1509dc5#ht_500wt_1104
If not could you tell me what I have to look for? Is it the famous graflok?
-Before getting a new lens I was thinking to use my kodak ektar 203mm f7.7 but I don't know why I can't unscrew the broken one from the graphic board, any advice on how do it without breaking everything?
-If I buy a new board has to be a C model or that letter on the inside of the board means nothing?

Sorry for the silly questions but this press camera is a new entire world for me, I apologize also for my english that is not that good, but I hope it made sense.
Thanks in advance to all those who will help me!

45PSS · Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2010 2:44 am Post subject:

You have an Anniversary Speed Graphic with a Graflex back. The Graflex back will only accept Graflex film holders. The standard back was a Graphic which takes standard film holders. (Typical of ebay dealers to call anything that attaches to the rear of the camera a back.)

http://graflex.org/speed-graphic/anniversary-graphic.html

The give away is the single lock ring for the front standard and focus knobs on both sides of the bed.

http://southbristolviews.com/ then the Graflex Manuals link to a Instruction manual and a service manual.
_________________
The best camera ever made is the one that YOU enjoy using and produces the image quality that satifies YOU.

bertsaunders · Posted: Wed Oct 06, 2010 4:37 am Post subject: my first Graflex

Matita,
To introduce myself, I am a long time helpboard member, and I repaired these cameras for over 25 years, both the SLR and Graphic models! I can, and will talk you thru any repairs, and I have many instruction sheets that I can sent to you for free!
I have updated many of my instruction sheets reciently with more photos and drawings for the old timers that I have helped over the years!
Your questions are welcome!
bsaunders1@bak.rr.com
Have a nice day......Bert

matita · Joined: 05 Oct 2010 Posts: 2

Thank you very much for your replies!
It is nice to know precisely what camera I got and unfortunately what back I got too (I really hope it will be possible to unscrew it to apply a spring back)
For sure I will contact you bertsaunders soon, I really appreciate knowing that someone with your experience will help me to understand what to do.
I should maybe apologise for my english that sometimes gets incomprehensible, but I'm an italian who only recently started living in UK, so if you don't get what I say don't hesitate to tell me.
Thanks again!

Sirius Glass · Posted: Thu Oct 07, 2010 1:59 am Post subject:

Bert is the man! Follow his instructions. He has helped me with both Graphics and Graflexes. Buy the tools he recommends and if you do not understand something, ask him.

Steve
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Nothing beats a good piece of glass.

djacob372 · Joined: 20 Oct 2010 Posts: 4 Location: seattle

That camera looks to be in great condition for such an old model.

However, if you plan on using the camera (not just displaying), you may want to consider selling it and buying a later model with a graflok back and working lens. It would likely be cheaper and easier then updating this camera.

Sirius Glass · Posted: Wed Oct 20, 2010 10:56 pm Post subject:

Bert can make a converter plate to allow a Graflok back to be attached. He made one for me. Now I can use two sheet film holders and Grafmatic 45s on my Graflex Model D and my Pacemaker Speed Graphic.

Steve
_________________
Nothing beats a good piece of glass.