Speed Graphic Knob

Tom C · Jul 20, 2011

I have a Graflex Speed Graphic that is missing one (of two) knurled knobs used to tighten the vertical lens shift adjustment. These are the knobs on either side of the front of the lens.
Does anyone know where I can get this knob? Camera repair places say to buy a junker but this is a terribly expensive way to get a $2.00 part.
Thanks,
Tom

domaz · Jul 20, 2011

Have you checked online hardware stores like McMaster and Grainger? Grainger in particular seems to have a lot of knobs, but honestly I've never seen one for sale like the Graphic's.

Mike Wilde · Jul 20, 2011

Buy a nut that has the right thread to suit the bolt/stud.

Then buy the 'steel' epoxy, that is machinable.

Mold it around the nut, in a shape to make a flange, and let it cure.

File it to the shape you need, and even file knurls into its rim if you desire.

It won't be as pretty as the OEM option, but it will be functional.

BradS · Jul 20, 2011

Search/Watch eBay for a front end. They come up often and can usually be had for around $10. You'll get the nuts you need and some other spares too.

brucemuir · Jul 20, 2011

You mean the rise adjustment don't you?
I had one that the stud that you screwed the knurled knob onto broke off.
I scoped out eBay and found an entire front standard with everything and I don't think I paid more than 20.00usd.

It may take a bit of patience but it will work with one knob anyway.

Pupfish · Jul 20, 2011

Literally millions of Speeds and Crowns were made.
Never fabricate a part for which spares are plentiful.
Watch Ebay and be patient.

Jim Jones · Jul 23, 2011

The threads of that knob appear to be #5-40, fairly uncommon. I've encountered them in typewriters, guns, and a few other items. Perhaps a hardware store has a #4-40 knob that a well-equipmed gunsmith can drill out and tap to 5-40.

Tom C · Jul 28, 2011

Thanks for the advice. I'm still looking and can't imagine someone doesn't have this knob. I guess I will have to take the advice above and be patient (which is not one of my strong points).

BradS · Jul 28, 2011

eBay seller "lakesgraphic" sells lot of graflex parts. you might browse his auctions to see if you can find something suitable (e.g. auction number 260824346889)

Speed Graphic Knob

Privacy & Transparency

Privacy & Transparency