Considering a Focomat v35

[rthollenbeck]

There's really no problem using other mfrs lenses. Everything is adjustable. From the factory it's set up for a 1" base easel. Again this can be compensated for.

John,

I know the baseboard height can be adjusted as you say BUT it is my understanding from speaking to people at Linhof and Durst (Long ago in the past) that these "Cams" were ground to match an individual lens (not just the specific model but the individual lens). Now I wouldn't be so bold as to say I have tested or verified this mind you...Just that I was told by a source I trusted enough to assume what they said was fact. I would have assumed on my own that focus distances for different model lens would have some variation.
So If what I say is true:
I would think there is even greater variation among different makers 50mm enlarging lens and different types by the same makers. Anyway my assumption is that setting the baseboard height is not enough if you change lens model.....although the focus maybe close.....the focus "curves"=cam are different from one 50mm type to the next.

I could be wrong. It sure wont be the first time.

 

[Hilo]

The Leica easels do lock to the base board but are only two bladed so if you want borders on all four edges you wold have to mask for them. The lens mount is a standard 39mm thread.

With all respect, this is wrong. The fixed top and left sides provide for large white borders. The paper just slips under the metal and there are adjustable stops

Addressing the concerns about the 2nd hand Focomats 1C being complete: I have seen many (like 20 or more) and the only things that were sometimes missing are the lose parts: anti newton glass and negative holder . . . and about them working properly: any one with even little technical skills (like me) can clean these beautiful machines and make them work.

Just find one that looks like it was well treated

 

[Jerevan]

Thank you very much for the additional information, Andi!

It looks really good.

 

[~andi]

There are three available on eBay - all in Europe, all a bit pricey. Does the V35 have a dual Power Supply (120/220v)? Something to be aware of and consider.

Good point. Mine has a transformer with multiple taps and dial to set the voltage: 110/120, 220/230V and 250. Frequency doesn't matter in this case. However it seems not all models have this:

http://www.bonavolta.ch/hobby/en/photo/v35.htm#Wiring

It's a straight-forward classical transformer though, you could have one custom wound for a couple of bucks, use an external step-up/down box, or rewire it for the use with an external stabilized 12V power supply (as shown in the second picture in the link above).

Best,
Andi

 

[John Koehrer]

John,

I know the baseboard height can be adjusted as you say BUT it is my understanding from speaking to people at Linhof and Durst (Long ago in the past) that these "Cams" were ground to match an individual lens (not just the specific model but the individual lens). Now I wouldn't be so bold as to say I have tested or verified this mind you...Just that I was told by a source I trusted enough to assume what they said was fact. I would have assumed on my own that focus distances for different model lens would have some variation.
So If what I say is true:
I would think there is even greater variation among different makers 50mm enlarging lens and different types by the same makers. Anyway my assumption is that setting the baseboard height is not enough if you change lens model.....although the focus maybe close.....the focus "curves"=cam are different from one 50mm type to the next.

I could be wrong. It sure wont be the first time.

Having used the Focotar and Nikkor f2.8 on a IC personally would suggest the cam is adjustable. It's pretty similar to the IIC.
The Nikkor's a bit more contrasty.

 

[John Koehrer]

With all respect, this is wrong. The fixed top and left sides provide for large white borders. The paper just slips under the metal and there are adjustable stops

Addressing the concerns about the 2nd hand Focomats 1C being complete: I have seen many (like 20 or more) and the only things that were sometimes missing are the lose parts: anti newton glass and negative holder . . . and about them working properly: any one with even little technical skills (like me) can clean these beautiful machines and make them work.

Just find one that looks like it was well treated

I can speak only to the 8X10 easel. The fixed blades at top and left side give approximately a 5mm border.
The distance you can insert paper is restricted by a non removable wooden edge and the hinge itself.
The lower and right side can be moved horizontally(side) or vertically(up & down) and can be adjusted for even edges ONLY if you're using the entire paper area.
IE: You cannot center an image giving it equal borders. You also cannot print a smaller print centered on 810 paper.