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TimKean · Joined: 15 Dec 2003 Posts: 24 Location: Missouri

This site is great and I have found this forum very helpful, but I still have a couple of questions. I have just purchsed my first LF, a Speed Graphic Anniversary 4x5. It came with a 101mm Kodak Ektar lens. What are the chances that this is the original lens? I checked the date code on the lens and it was a '46. If this isn't the original lens, what are the cances of it being calibrated to the Hugo Meyer range finder? Like I stated earier, I'm new to large format, but I've shot medium format (620 & 127) cameras for several years. What tips do you all have for me to make the transition smooth? Thanks in advance!!!

RichS · Posted: Tue Dec 16, 2003 5:44 pm Post subject:

Congrats on the Speed! I still think Graphics are the best all-round cameras...

And now for the bad news... If you do have a 4x5, then the chances of the 101 being original are pretty slim. Seems it's a 2x3 lens and won't cover 4x5. You could tell by opening the lens and checking the ground glass t see what kind of image you get. I could be wrong, but that's what I remember and what the book says...
That would probably take care of the rangefinder also...
I would suggest you look for a more 'normal' lens in the 150 range which can be had fairly cheap at auction or in many stores that deal with older stuff. I'm sure you can get many suggestions here, and there have been many made already in the forums...

Sorry, and good luck with your new graphic.

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"Ya just can't have too many GVIIs"

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worldphoto · Posted: Tue Dec 16, 2003 7:53 pm Post subject:

Hi Tim
Your 101mm lens isn't original, Like Rich says, but it will work great with many of the backs available for your camera. You have a choice of 6x6cm, 6x7cm or 6x9cm backs. I have the same lens and I sure enjoy using it. I'm now using a Cambo C2N (6x7cm) back with my 4x5 Crown that I really like over my "xx" Graphic backs.
Happy Holidays, Harry

[ This Message was edited by: worldphoto on 2003-12-16 11:58 ]

TimKean · Joined: 15 Dec 2003 Posts: 24 Location: Missouri

Thanks for the replies!! I was wondering about the lens size, but I've read about being able to use down to a 90mm on a 4x5, so I thought I would be OK with a 101mm. What size should I start looking for? A 127mm, 135mm, 150mm? I would really like to get something that will work with the range finder. What do you think the original size probably was? Thanks again!!

primus96 · Posted: Wed Dec 17, 2003 10:12 pm Post subject:

The sort of lenses one might expect to see on a 4x5 Graphic are:
127mm Ektar, in Supermatic shutter.
135mm Optar in Graphex shutter.
135mm Raptar in Rapax shutter.

Correct me if i'm wrong people but arent the Optar & Raptar the same lens or just made by the same maker - Wollensak?

Well, thats what it might have had. As you may have read these lenses only just cover 4x5.
If you are lucky you might be able to pick up a good example, but ask the vendor if all the speeds can be selected and fire properly.
There's no reason why you shouldn't use a modern lens. The 'standard' lens for a 4x5 is 150mm. It depends on how deep your pocket is.If the lens you choose doesnt come with a board specific for your Graphic you are going to have to get one and have the lens mounted into it.

I am new to this myself. I expect to receive a Crown Graphic in Jan '04.
Appetite already whetted by seeing somebodies 4x5 Fuji Provia trannies.

Dan Fromm · Joined: 14 May 2001 Posts: 2148 Location: New Jersey

Les · Joined: 09 May 2001 Posts: 2682 Location: Detroit, MI

All of the advice that you've been given is true and accurate with one caveat.

The meyer rangefind, though more expensive than a Kalart new, has a small range to which it can adjust. They used many different models to cover the range common to Graphic cameras and if you want to use the rf, you are going to have to find a lens (could be new or old) that fits in the rf's adjustment pattern.

Im not sure if a meyer rf designed to be used for 127 can be adjusted for a 135mm lens. From what I hear, the adjustment was to take care of the small difference between the actual focal lenght and the stated one.... usually +-2-3°

TimKean · Joined: 15 Dec 2003 Posts: 24 Location: Missouri

Well, I sprung for a Wollensak 135mm f4.7 Optar in a Graphex shutter from e-youknowwhere. I can't wait to get it and try it out. Speaking of that...my Speed came in FedEx today. Thanks for all of the help!!!