Any info on Alphax/Betax/Rapax shutters

[Tom Stanworth]

Hi,

I'm soon to get the Wolly 159 12.5 I won on ebay and wondering what info is available on the shutter. It is in an alphax, but from the photo I cannot see any other info. I have seen others in betax (I think) and rapax shutters. What are the differences, say between Alphax and Rapax. Is one newer? What sort of reliability is to be expected? I cannot imaging they were mounted in too many types of shutter?

I would just like to be able to do some homework about the shutter, which seems harder than looking up the lens.

Tks,

Tom

 

[John Kasaian]

Tim,

I have a 159mm WA f/9.5 Wollensak in an Alphax. Its a fine combination. The Alphax is a "press" or double action shutter---you don't cock it, just trip the cable release and it will cock and fire itself. My Betax and Rapax shutters require being cocked by hand before being tripped.

All three shutters mentioned are IMHO quite reliable, and if balky or seem to have given up the ghost more often than not can be restored with a "cla." Chech S.K.Grimes website for a review of older shutters like the Ilex, Kodak, and Compurs by "the master" for more info on these critters.

Congratulations! Enjoy that new Wolly!

 

[John Kasaian]

I meant to type "Tom" Sorry!

 

[Tom Hoskinson]

I have examples of all 3 and as John indicated they are basically good shutters.

Examine the shutter leaves in any of these shutters carefully for damage before you buy. If the leaves are damaged they probably should be replaced and this can be expensive.

There are several good options available for CLA/Repair of these shutters, including S.K. Grimes, Carol Miller and others.

 

[Tom Stanworth]

I now have the lens...finally...and it is a gem! Tiny, flawless optics and a shutter that seems (touch wood) to be sweet and roughly accurate (to my watch) at the slow speeds. The shutter exterior is a tad larger in diameter than a copal 1, with a 55mm or so hole needed for mouting. There is nothing to indicate the size/model of the shutter other than 'Alphax'. I have never handled one of these US shutters before and it seems very solidly made and sounds smooth on the inside (if that makes sense, ie not clunky at all). I take it they are somewhat more sophisticated that the Ilex shutters etc. I'm impressed....you cant beat METAL!

Thankfully I have a tapered thread release with a long throw which seems to screw home well and trips it fine. Is it inadvisable to use a tapered thread release, might it damage teh thread on the shutter?

Tom