Meridian 45B

[eskyone]

Hello, I was given a Meridian 45B camera the other day. The camera seems to be in very good condition with everything in working order from what I can tell. My only concern in the lens. My first large format camera, I haven't any idea as the type, size, nor if I'm operating it properly or not. From what I can tell it is a ILEX No. 3 (ACME) 4.5. The shutter speeds seem to work, and I can move everything properly. What I'm not sure about it bulb or "T." When I set the shutter to B or T and trip the shutter it doesn't stay open. I can preview the aperture by using the little knob near the cocking mechanism so that seems to work as well. Also, near the lower left hand side of the lens are some marking regarding what seems to be filters....? I've searched for a couple of days looking for information and while I've found some useful stuff, I wasn't blown over with a huge amount. Does anyone have some leads as to the picture quality of my lenses? How do I use B or T on this lens? Also, I found some boxes of Pan-x safety film unopened. Not sure how old or if it would be worth trying out. I have to say I'm very impressed with the build of this camera and functionality of it. My serial number is 18XX. Any help or guidance is appreciated. Thanks - Sean

 

[waynecrider]

B, or bulb will not stay open once either your finger is removed from the shutter release or from using a cable release. T or time should open upon clicking the shutter release or cable release and then close when clicking it again. It sounds like you have a preview lever to set focus and which then closes the shutter. Make sure it is closed before using for B or T.

 

[eskyone]

Thank you

I will give it a try. The shutter will stay open as long as I push the cable release plunger only about half-way down. Anymore than that and it trips the shutter completely.