Identify This--Graflex Graflok Adapter?

[wjlapier]

I found this piece in a box that says Graflex Inc. My Linhof back can attach to it so I'm assuming it's some sort of Graflok back or adapter or? Anyone identify what this is and what it's for?

 

[Dan Fromm]

Graflok back for Cambo, probably 4x5 (if 4x5, 163 mm x 163 mm), without the focusing panel.

 

[Ian Grant]

Be aware that there's at least two and possibly three different fit Cambo Graflok backs and the focus frames aren't inter-changeable. I bought a Super Graphic with issues, the Graflok back had cracks and a broken part of the casting so only one spring worked, but the Graflok back focus frame off my Cambo (Calumet in the US) Cadet was a perfect fit until I found a Super Graphic focus frame. I bought a Cambo rotating back assuming the Focus frame would fit but it didn't,

Ian

 

[Dan Fromm]

Ian, thanks for the remarks. Cambo SC and successors.

 

[Ian Grant]

Ian, thanks for the remarks. Cambo SC and successors.

I learnt the hard way, bought what I was sure would fit twice Could have been costly but in the end I sold the second Cambo (revolving) back for what I'd paid for it. Making things worse I'd then assumed that a Pacemaker Graflok focus frame would fit a Super Graphic, it didn't.

There;s not a Graflok standard in terms of the way the focus frame arms fit the back, the standard is just the simple way the way the sliders hold the accessory backs etc.

Ian

 

[wjlapier]

Graflok back for Cambo, probably 4x5 (if 4x5, 163 mm x 163 mm), without the focusing panel.

It’s 4x5. Thanks for the help.

 

[wjlapier]

Saw a video on youtube where a photographer was going through how to setup a rail camera and near the end she attaches one of these things to the back standard. Now I know!

 

[Dan Fromm]

In the Cambo SC system and successors, many of the attachments are modified lens boards, or, if you like to think of it that way, attach to the standards like lens boards. Bellows frames, backs, lens board adapters, ...

Graflok backs accept insertion type film holders (sheet film holders, some roll holders) that go between the focusing panel and back. The focusing panel is removed to allow clip-on type roll holders to be attached. Without a focusing panel a Graflok back is useless. Can't use a sheet film holder, can't focus so there's no point attaching a clip-on type roll holder.

 

[wjlapier]

Thank you for the explanation on how the back works. Kinda fun learning something new about photography.