Certotrop Manual

[Raghu Kuvempunagar]

I’ve recently purchased a Certotrop 9x12 camera with Xenar lens and some plate holders. Where can I find the manual of this camera or any webpage that describes the basic controls of the camera?

Does Certotrop or any 9x12 plate camera allow the kind of movements normally associated with a large format camera?

Some versions of Certotrop were apparently interchangeable lens cameras! Is it possible to use a modern 4x5 lens on such cameras?

 

[ChuckP]

Don't know your camera but the Zeiss Maximar 9x12 has front rise and shift movements. I think most similar cameras have at least rise. My model has geared movements for both. You can use any lens you can fit on the front and have enough bellows length to focus. Probably will not be able to close the camera though unless you find a small lens.

 

[AgX]

Does Certotrop or any 9x12 plate camera allow the kind of movements normally associated with a large format camera?

If you look at photographs of this camera you will see that:

-) the back is static
-) front standard offers vertical and lateral shift
-) model V has in addition some central, downwards tilt

 

[Raghu Kuvempunagar]

I

This was helpful, thanks. I received the camera today and I'm facing a beginners problem. I couldn't figure out how to unlock the case. Please see the attached figure. Any suggestions on how to open the case?

 

[AgX]

Yes, I myself once was puzzled by the same lock, on a folder's case...

You just have to slide the ring structure downwards.
(Unless it is locked, then you have to start lock-picking...)

 

[Raghu Kuvempunagar]

Yes, I myself once was puzzled by the same lock, on a folder's case...

You just have to slide the ring structure downwards.
(Unless it is locked, then you have to start lock-picking...)

What you suggested worked! Thanks.