35mm enlarger

[Gerry M]

"Also, regardless of compactness, some enlargers may be more suitable for repeated storage and setting up. For example, how well are the condensers secured? How repeatable is the alignment? How delicate is the mechanism?"

Very good points!
Now, where does that leave the Durst M300? There is one within a 2 hour drive that is complete and may be very reasonably priced (if that's possible in this economy ).

 

[mgb74]

Working on memory, the head on the M300 is easily removed from the column. If necessary to avoid condensers shifting around, it should be possible to store the head in the same orientation as it sits on the column, so that's a plus. I can't remember how easy it is to remove the column from the base.

Conversely, my B22 (which I'd be happy to sell if it was feasible to ship) is taller. You can easily remove the head and column from the baseboard, but you need to keep head and column together. The condensers can be jostled around if not careful. So OK if you're storing the head and column upright in a closet, but not so good if storing horizontal.

 

[Gerry M]

Some years back, I had an Omega B66. While a bit smaller than my 23CII's, not enough to solve my limited space problem. The Beseler's would probably go into heated storage, for the time being.

 

[jeffreyg]

Since you already have a good enlarger why not get a mobile cart (office supply or maybe Home Depot). One that will accommodate the enlarger as assembled with the baseboard. Most of the carts have a shelf or two to store trays etc. I think if you have to assemble and align when you want to print those sessions will be less frequent. The cart may not take up much more room then the boxes.

http://www.jeffreyglasser.com/

 

[Gerry M]

Jeffrey, I have one enlarger already on a rolling cart. My problem is storage when not in use. We are in a semi temporary living arrangement, while taking full time care of my wife's very elderly mother. This won't go on forever, but has lasted longer than anticipated. So, I'm looking for a temporary solution.
Gerry

 

[fotch]

I remember seeing ads for enlargers that fit inside and were apart of a suitcase for traveling. The column would attached to the case, which became the base. I think Durst, Kodak had them, may be others. Wasn't that long ago, but then again, my memory isn't what it use to be.