Need help evaluating a very complete Linhof Kardan Bi-System 5x7 outfit

[sesuone]

Hello everyone,


I have recently acquired what appears to be a very complete Linhof Kardan Bi-System 5x7 outfit and I would be grateful for some opinions from experienced Linhof users and collectors.


After some research, I found that Kardan Bi-System cameras are not very common, especially in larger formats. I also came across a recent Photrio classified listing for an 8x10 version, which made me wonder how complete my own setup actually is.


My kit currently includes:


• Linhof Kardan Bi-System 5x7 camera
• Original Linhof 210mm f/5.6 lens (serial 6191001)
• Original focusing rail and support assembly
• Ground glass back with original protective metal cover
• Linhof Super Rollex 56×72 rollfilm back
• Two additional Linhof rollfilm holders
• Original Linhof focusing hood
• Original Linhof accessory catalogue/manual
• Various original Linhof mounting accessories shown in the attached photographs


The camera appears to be fully operational. All movements are smooth, locks work correctly, and the bellows appear to be in very good condition. I have not yet performed a detailed light leak test.


An interesting detail is that inside the original Linhof catalogue I found an old Linhof crest label marked “2433-”, which may indicate that the documentation originally belonged with the camera or came from the same professional studio.


My questions for the community are:

1. Does this appear to be a particularly complete Kardan Bi-System 5x7 outfit?
2. Are there any important accessories missing that should ideally accompany such a system?
3. How uncommon is it to find one in this configuration today?
4. Would collectors generally prefer keeping such a set together rather than separating the individual components?

I would really appreciate your thoughts and expertise.


Thank you very much.

 

[MARTIE]

Sorry to question your judgement, but the front and rear standards look the same width making it look like a 4x5 and not a 5x7?

And it appears to be a bit of a mixed bag of bits and bobs because some pic's show film holders for 6.5x9cm as well as 9x12cm and a handgrip from a technika camera.

 

[MARTIE]

If you follow the link to Linhof, you will be able to date the production year of your camera. You will find the number stamped into the accessory shoe on the top of the front standard.
https://linhof.com/1968-kardan-bi-system/

 

[Hassasin]

You don't show much in photos. From the list it appears you can use it without anything additional stuff, provided lens is fine and shutter works.

If you bought a 5x7 then from shown film holders they must clearly show as smaller (the 9x12) then rear standard is adn there would be an adapter plate to accept the 9x12 / 4x5 holders (it would still be a square one though as all monorail cameras come with square standards and rotating back.

5x7 used same front standard as 4x5, rear would be visibly larger. I think 8x10 as well.

Bi-System was once hailed as top in LInhof's "standard" monorail. I have a 4x5 and I seriously question that assessment. But it was a fine camera with endless accessories.

 

[Hassasin]

Here is a little brochure, good enough for entry point on the Bi-System