New here and New to Photography

[simplify]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3825854162&ssPageName=ADME:B:BN:US:1

I just bid on this and really know nothing about them. Could anyone enlighten me enough to get through a test to be sure it works? I can't even tell if I need to purchase a film holder or if it comes with one? Do you see any red flags, issues, concerns from your experience?

Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge! Hopefully I'll win it and it will be E+++++ as stated!

 

[juan]

It appears to be an Anniversary Speed Graphic as advertised. Since it has a black face, it was probaably made during WWII. I don't see anything wrong that stands out from the description, but the description is not very detailed - it says nothing about the condition of the lens or front shutter. Since it appears to be just the camera and no accessories, you would need film holders. There is not photo of the back of the camera, so I can't tell for sure what type of back it has - there were two at that time and they take different film holders. Go to www.graflex.org and start reading - there's plenty of information there.

Also, for camera alone, the price seems very high. Search for "speed graphic" and then go to completed items and check prices for other cameras that have sold.
juan

 

[Jim Chinn]

The price is not to bad depending on the condition. If it is part of a collection it may indeed be in excellent shape. The lens is longer than most Graphics came with (most usually had a 127 ektar or 135 optar) so that may be a plus. If it is cammed correctly for the lens and the rangefinder can be made to work then the price is fair.

Another contributor, Cheryl Jacobs has just acquired a Speed Graphic and a good discussion about learning about it is in this thread:

(there was a url link here which no longer exists)

If you win it, let us know, as you can see from the above thread there are a number of members who have experience with these cameras. Also visit the graflex site that Juan linked to.

 

[simplify]

Thank you! I received the camera yesterday and it is really beautiful! It looks brand new! I am having trouble sorting out *how* to use the *Kalart Synchronized Rangefinder* but I am absolutely brand spanking new at this too! Thanks for the link to the thread!

I ordered some old style hot lights today! Can't wait to take her for a test drive, in studio, under controlled conditions. I also got a 545 Polaroid Back, 6 additional Film Holders, a focusing loupe and *LOTS* of film. So, I should be set! Gosh, this is really unlike anything I have ever experienced before! Upside and backwards will be an adjustment for sure!

Looking forward to getting "Back to Basics" and learning Photography the way it was back in the day.

All I need now is a Fedora, Press Pass and a *BIG OLD FLASH UNIT*! I don't think I can use a flash like that with this lens though.

 

[papagene]

Sounds like you are having a grand time already. Just wait 'til you see your prints.
Enjoy and good luck.
gene