Bergger paper production

[MMfoto]

Does anyone have any info on Bergger's manufacturing facilities for their paper lines? Many people seem to think that Bergger VC and Graded CB papers are repackaged Polywarmtone and Fortezo, or that Forte coats the emulsion onto Bergger's paper stock. The former is nonsence, but the latter seems more likely.

I do recall, was it two years ago, that there was a Bergger supply issue that converged with Forte's near demise. When VCCB supply resumed I was sure that the paper was on a different stock for a while. It felt a little lighter and the back felt smoother out of the package. My imagination? IDK.

I've used VCCB quite a lot, and Polywarmtone somewhat. The paper stock on VCCB is most defintely different from Polywarmtone and is the nicest I've ever seen for my taste, but I sure do pay a premium for it!

 

[TheFlyingCamera]

When Bergger went through their supply shenanigans, I contacted them about the new paper weight being pronouncedly thinner, and was given a BS response about how the paper stock was thinner as a result of EU environmental regulations. I've noticed that it seems to be back up to the normal weight now. It is my understanding that Forte coats the emulsion of their specification onto the paper stock of their choosing for them. But don't try to get a straight answer from them about it.

I love their paper stock, and it, plus the responsiveness of their papers to toning are what keep me coming back despite the rather hefty price premium. Try it in Ansco 130 if you want some beautiful, rich prints.

 

[dancqu]

Was just shopping Central Camera out
of Chicago. They have a large selection
of Graded and VC Bergger papers. Dan

 

[uraniumnitrate]

Does anyone have any info on Bergger's manufacturing facilities for their paper lines?

Awfully small office and the coating facilities must be underground because you can’t see it!

 

[rtuttle]

I spoke to them at the NYC show back in November. At first the lady I spoke with was saying they manufactured their own product (she was young and new and just delivering the corporate line). After a few minutes I spoke with another rep and she admited they have it done for them. They could have selected better photographs to display their product. I thought they were horrible! But the paper was nice.

 

[Peter Schrager]

Bergger

This is really some old info. Bergger makes nothing that they sell. It is all marketing hype and done well. Their papers are done by Forte but to THEIR emulsion specs. The papers have their own look and that's what you are paying for. Like it or leave but the truth is the truth. Hope this thread dies....
Best, Peter

 

[MMfoto]

Hope this thread dies....

 

[BarryWilkinson]

For what its worth...

I have recently processed some Bergger VCCB and Forte Polywarmtone (PW14) in Dektol 1:2 as test samples. They were exposed to a 4x5 Stouffer 21 Step Wedge under the enlarger on to 91/2" x 12" paper. (Untoned)

I cannot see any difference in these papers, colour, weight or speed. Both papers were at least two years old. Maybe a different developer would show some differences?

Barry