School me on Sinar P vs. p2 vs X models, whats the difference?

[harlequin]

Dear APUG Members,

I am using an old Sinar f and am pleased with its performance, however I got to use a model P over
the weekend and really found it to be more solid, more accurate and the geared standards were more robust.

a) If I were to upgrade, am I best to go for a P or P2? What are the differences?
b) These cameras are a fraction of what they sold for new, is there anything to look out for maintenance
wise, as in the geared mechanisms...?
c) The p2 looks more modern and robust, any users have experience with this model? pros cons
d) The model X looks like the latest version, is it a newer version of p2 or a different animal all together.
e) Luckily my bellows and lensboards from f will fit and function with newer camera.
f) If the camera has some wear, can it be serviced independently??

Thank YOU for all your input on this, do not want to make a mistake but they all look like they are competent
cameras and a step up from my f model....Please chime in your feedback is appreciated....!!!

Harlequin

 

[DREW WILEY]

The X is basically a P2 minus the expense of engraving a lot of markings onto the standards. You will have centering marks, I believe. Either way, you have better odds of finding a camera in mint condition versus the older P's, which often have seen a lot of use. I'm a Norma guy myself, though I also have F and P2 components.

 

[DREW WILEY]

Beware of cameras cobbled together from random parts, which often turn up - for example, a P rear with a flimsy intermediate bellows support in lieu of a front standard - basically a C Sinar.

 

[harlequin]

Drew

THANK YOU! C I heard is the "Compromise" model..... I agree with you as some of the early P models have a lot of mileage by now...
I have heard rave reviews of the Norma, but have not seen one in person.

Regards,
Harlequin

 

[B.S.Kumar]

The X differs from the P2 in three ways:
1. the frame cannot be easily exchanged for different formats - 5x7 or 8x10;
2. there is no center detent for the shift movement; and
3. the shift knob is red colored, rather than black, though I have seen one example with a black knob.

Some applications need precise movements at the rear. The combination of an F front and P rear was officially sold by Sinar as the C model for such uses. The old F standards weren't very good and are best used as intermediate standards, but the F2 is quite up to the task.

Message me if you would like to buy an X rear standard.

Kumar