Graflex.org

DenaDesign · Joined: 24 Feb 2026 Posts: 7

Hello,
For my Graflex Pacemaker 4x5 Speed Graphic, I have been wondering which flash is correct. I have seen the one they used in Star Wars and I am thinking of purchasing the reproduction made by The Graflex Shop (https://graflexshop.com/products/graflex-3-cell-flash-folmer-with-patent?variant=43059199541487). However, I have also seen the Graflite (I think this is the correct name), and this one fits onto the flash bracket on the side of my camera. For the other "Skywalker" one, I would apparently have to remove that flash bracket? The black metal piece surrounding the Kalart Range Finder that has another metal piece on which the Graflite goes. So I would have to remove that, that way I am able to mount the "Skywalker" flash directly onto the Kalart Range Finder by means of that metal piece on the Kalart itself.
Here is an image of my camera with the Flash Bracket surrounding the Kalart.
https://1drv.ms/i/c/8ad0ddf839916e6d/IQCM1Od4TQMmRpoP24DorRFtAbweMrg167x5fGrADf0S4d0?e=PiajeO
Thanks I will appreciate any help and would anyone mind telling me about the sync cords for them?

Henry · Joined: 09 May 2001 Posts: 1662

You should be able to mount the flash on the Kalart bracket using the same clamps as seen here on the Graflite: https://graflex.org/images/graflite/graflite-by-graflex.jpg
Using the clamps (appropriately spaced), you could also mount the flash on the other side of the camera, replacing the strap handle, in which case the flash body itself functions as a mighty sturdy handle!

As for synch cords, they used to be cheap, in the good old days. Now they're quite pricey new; try these sources: https://duckduckgo.com/?ia=web&origin=funnel_home_website&t=h_&q=paramount+photography+sync+cords&chip-select=search. For that lens, you need a Graflex bi-post-to-household (male) synch cord.

An alternative to that expensive repro unit is the Graflite Jr., the two-cell version of the 3-cell Graflite (which is the repro one you referenced). I haven't looked recently, but my guess is that you could find a Graflite Jr. and reflector combo on the auction site for much less than you'd pay for the repro, which doesn't come with the reflector (added expense!). The Graflite Jr. would be quite appropriate for your camera. Sourcing flashbulbs might be more problematic!

DenaDesign · Joined: 24 Feb 2026 Posts: 7

Thank you for the help, the Graflite seems to be the best flash for me now. Thanks again!

Henry · Joined: 09 May 2001 Posts: 1662

OK, now I get it. Your top post was really an advertisement. I might have known from your moniker. Very clever indeed.