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#6 Cirkut Camera Outfit Help

Dean FitzArthur

Member
Allowing Ads
Joined
Mar 31, 2020
Messages
1
Location
Arlington, VA
Format
Analog
I am a photography novice investigating why my grandfather's Cirkut camera film back is not functioning (https://photos.app.goo.gl/1VYDquWkFMdwrj3f7). The c.1910 unit appears to be in good condition for its age. However, when the clockwork motor is wound and other instructions from the user manual are followed, nothing happens other than the switch turning on and off, and the exposure slit opening and closing. I have two wind keys (one crudely slotted) and two unidentified pieces accompanying the outfit (see photos). I am hesitant to start taking the film back apart without some guidance or schematics. In this vein, does anyone have photos to share of the shielded governor, motor and other interior works of the #6 outfit? Also, are there any knowledgeable Cirkut camera users (or repairmen?) residing in the greater Washington, DC, or Mid-Atlantic area?
 
Welcome to Photrio.
There are a few people on this site who are quite knowledgeable about using Cirkut cameras, so you should receive a useful response some time soon.
Jim Galli (jimgalli) is one who comes to mind.
I'm just a fan of the results possible.
 

I hope you got around to finding out the beloved camera wasn't working? Would love to see some results if you've been successful!
 
The lever could be jammed. I have that happen when it doesn't engage properly with the back. Springs break as well. Hard to know till you go inside. It's not super complicated. You need to disconnect the drum to pull it out after you unscrew the base screws. There are little set screws on the top inside and bottom inside of the drum. I always document everything so I know what came out of where. At this point I've taken apart every size cirkut. There are differences with different vintages. My 6 outfit is younger so is likely different