Film Back For My SQ-A

A while back, I bought a really nice used Bronica SQ-A from a local dealer. He's also sold me a couple of Mamiya's, and I've been very pleased with my purchases.

The SQ-A came with a 220-only back, so I had to find a 120 back, which I added in June. I still have the 220 back, but finding a 120 insert is like searching for Blackbeard's treasure. I finally located a complete back from a dealer in Alabama, and it's on its way now.

Back to the 220 back - I searched KEH for backs, and ran across a 120 back with insert, for the princely sum of $34.00, including shipping. The only thing wrong with the back, is that it's missing the Bronica name plate. It fits fine, and I'll test it and the 220 shell with the 120 insert in the coming weeks Sometimes you do find treasure.

It should work fine. I had to swap the shell from a 220 back recently. The 120 back had a bad leak so I tried the 220 shell hoping it wouldn't leak and got lucky. I have replaced the seals on one of my 4 backs and need to do the rest. My recommendation for all new to me/you cameras is to first test to make sure it is working then if mechanically it is ok replace all seals, cause they are worn out, just how bad and how much longer they will last are the questions. It isn't too bad to do but can be messy. My favorite supplier of seal kits stopped making Bronica back kits but he did make a kit for me and will do a few more when I am ready to tackle the job in a month or two. Allways good to see another Michigander on the site.

Yeah, on my ETRSi, I have 4 120 backs, but on one of them the open levers (to pop the insert out) are really loose and flimsy. I’m planning on buying a good condition 220 back for really cheap to throw the 120 insert into a better condition back.