Century Graphic Focus Lock?

[Dave Lusby]

I have a question for users of the 6X9 Century Graphic. These cameras have no focus lock mechanism and that has me constantly checking to make sure focus hasn't slipped. Do any Century users in the community have any hints for how to add a bit of friction to the mechanism so it won't slip? Has anyone fabricated a focus lock?

 

[Donald Qualls]

I'd have to check my Century (I've only used it with the Kalart RF and there's not much chance of slippage in the second or so between focusing and exposing), but IIRC on my Anniversary Speed the entire focus axle moves to one side to lock. Does your Century not do this? Or am I conflating this with my Zeiss/Ica Ideals?

 

[chuckroast]

The "Baby" Graflex cameras did not have a focus lock like the 4x5 (and possibly the 3x4) bodies did.

I don't know about the Century, but the 2x3 Speed and Crown bodies had a "focusing tract tensioning screw" rather than a focus lock lever. This screw is typically located above or just behind the right-side focusing knob shaft and applies friction to the focusing shaft ... or at least that's what the internet says. I've actually never checked by Baby Speed.

 

[darinwc]

The "Baby" Graflex cameras did not have a focus lock like the 4x5 (and possibly the 3x4) bodies did.

I don't know about the Century, but the 2x3 Speed and Crown bodies had a "focusing tract tensioning screw" rather than a focus lock lever. This screw is typically located above or just behind the right-side focusing knob shaft and applies friction to the focusing shaft ... or at least that's what the internet says. I've actually never checked by Baby Speed.

Wow I never knew this! I have a Century Graphic. No focus lock but there it is, a little silver set screw that adjusts the tension.

 

[chuckroast]

Wow I never knew this! I have a Century Graphic. No focus lock but there it is, a little silver set screw that adjusts the tension.

Well, I just check my Baby Speed and, sure enough, there is a tensioning adjustment as described. Good to know the Century has it as well.

I have owned several Centuries and now the Speed. They are all great cameras. I am looking next for a beat up one (my Speed is pretty pristine) because I want to reverse the front standard for true forward tilt.

 

[Dave Lusby]

Yes!!! I see the tiny screw and I shall experiment with it!
My humble thanks to the Graflex community!