Contessa Nettel plate camera

[jprofita]

I recently acquired what I believe to be a Contessa Nettel Tropen Adoro with a 13.5cm Tessar. It came with a film pack adapter but no plate holders. I understand that plate holders are not universal. Can someone tell me what to look for at auction or better yet sell me something? I would prefer to shoot film rather than plates so I need the film sleeves as well. Thank you, Joe

The film pack adapter has dimensions 91x136mm.

 

[Andy38]

Hello,
What is the format ?
The 135 mm Tessar is usually used with a 9 x 12 mm camera, but the width of the back is a bit too small for this format.
And usual backs for 6 x 9 cm are less large (even when I may guess it's 6 x 9)...

 

[Ian Grant]

Welcome to Photrio.

Looks like a 9x12, and the 135mm Tessar lens was only used for this format. Some Quarter plate cameras were made but the format looks quite different.

Just replied to your PM on the LFPF, now I see the possible fit I may have some holders. Will check over the weekend and let you know. For film you'll also need adapter sheaths, Eastman Kodak made them in the US, I've sold all my spares

Post some pictures of the edges of the GG focus screen holder and the film pack.

Ian

 

[Andy38]

"Looks like a 9x12" : I don't know if it's possible to insert a 9 x 12 plate in a 9,1 cm wide back...

For the film sheaths, you can see here : http://alternativephotographicsuppl...format-photography/wkladka-negatywowa-9x12-cm

 

[jprofita]

Ian and Andy - Thank you for your assistance! Here are some photos of the GG back and the film pack adapter. I rechecked my measurements...the opening in the film pack adapter is 80x103mm...the film itself, old Verichrome, is 82x112mm. Are film sheaths a standard size? Again thanks, Joe

 

[jprofita]

Looks like quarter plate...hope the photos above suffice.

 

[Andy38]

Looks like quarter plate...hope the photos above suffice.

Yes, it's quarter plate ; I have old Graflex 3 1/4 x 4 1/4 backs, with film sheaths that have these exact dimensions.

Quarter plate cameras made in continental Europe are rare, with backs difficult to find.
Perhaps Ian has some...

 

[jprofita]

I am in the US so that might explain the quarter plate format. What information I have found doesn't list it in this format...confusing. There are a bunch of miscellaneous quarter plate holders on auction...I am tempted to try my luck.