Aero Ektar 7" mounting options for Anniversary Speed Graphic (4x4" lens board)

blee1996 · Feb 11, 2025

Hi, I got a Aero Ektar 7" f2.5 lens and an Anniversary Speed Graphic 4x5 camera, and would like to find the suitable mounting options. The wooden lens board is of the Graflex type C, measuring 4x4".

Since the lens is quite heavy, it will be good to have a secure mounting. Also the lens is quite big in comparison to the lens board.

I searched online, but almost all the nicely machined and reasonably priced options (e.g. RAF camera) are for Pacemakers' smaller metal lens boards. I'm not sure the 3D printed options will be secure enough.

Any suggestion will be appreciated!

P.S. I did test mount the lens on a wooden 6x6" Deardorff board, via friction as well as rubber hose clamp. And it was very secure.

AnselMortensen · Feb 11, 2025

I recently purchased a 6" Aero Ektar for my Anniversary Speed Graphic.
On Ebay, there is a seller based in Italy "inireshop" that makes machined metal lensboards for that particular application.
They also make 3D-printed lens caps, 82mm filter adapters and lens hoods for the AE.
I purchased a lens board, lens cap, and a filter adapter, and I'm happy with them, the machined metal board fit VERY well, the 3D-printed items fit OK, as is typical for many 3D-printed items.
I'm a repeat customer, since I bought a lens cap and filter holder/lens hood for my Hassy 40mm C Distagon in the past.

blee1996 · Feb 11, 2025

Thank you @AnselMortensen I was looking at that option as well, and it's great to hear a real user's feedback.

eli griggs · Feb 11, 2025

Hardwood like Lignum Vitae (genuine), Douglass Pine, should function.

3D printed, cross braced plastic may work, as well as you, taking some 3/8' to 1/4' aluminum plate, triming to size and orientation.

You can always upgrade your camera or lens, later,but getting off in a positive direction helps through out the editing of the back choice.

Cheers,
Eli.

blee1996 · Feb 11, 2025

Actually my Aero Ektar comes with an impressive looking old adapter from Aero Ektar down to M42. A big chunk of metal tube. Initially I was considering hacking it for my purpose, but stopped. Partly due to lack of metal cutting tools and partly trying to avoid destroying something that might still be useful.

F4U · Feb 12, 2025

3D Printing will be fine, although I recommend staying away from PLA filament in this case. Cameras are often used outdoors in summertime. Summertime sunny hot days cause PLA to warp and lose shape. Voice of experience. ABS would be good, if you can find a way to keep it from warping during printing. Good luck on that.

blee1996 · Feb 12, 2025

A quick update: I separated the mounting flange from the adapter tube thing, and got the Aero Ektar mounted on a wooden Graflex C board. It feels pretty solid, but I won't abuse it. I also found a small wooden block that is perfect as additional lens support/bracket under the front element. So it is now ready to roll!

F4U · Feb 12, 2025

Question is, will the rangefinder calibrate to it?

gordrob · Feb 12, 2025

Looking good. My Aero Ektar was mounted on a wooden board an an Anniversary Speed Graphic when I got it years ago. It had been used for shooting from a light ariplane. When I got it I upgraded it to a Pacemaker Speed Graphic with a lens board and mount from Jo Lommen. It has been a great camera and lens combination to shoot with.

Aero Ektar 7" mounting options for Anniversary Speed Graphic (4x4" lens board)

Attachments

Privacy & Transparency

Privacy & Transparency