Testers needed for new 3D printed Busch Pressman Model D lens boards

[Abe Fettig]

Hi PhotoTrio folks! I'm a long time reader but I think this is my first post. Abe Fettig here. I'm a film photography enthusiast and lead developer of the FilmLab app. I was recently feeling sad about the difficulty of finding lens boards for the Busch Pressman Model D (a great little 4x5, lightweight and solidly built with a rotating back). The original boards are impossible to find (unless you buy a whole camera), and there are a few handmade and 3D printed boards floating around but they require shipping from outside the US or don't seem that well made. So I asked the good folks at Negative Supply if they could help design and make some new 3D printed boards. And they did! Here are some photos of the first batch (with an original aluminum board for comparison):

They work great on my Model D, but I'd like to get some feedback from other people using various shutters and lenses before we finalize the design. So if you have a Model D, and would be able to test out one of these boards in the next week or two, please get in touch! Since I'm new here I'm not sure if DMs will work, but you can email me at abe@developandfix.com.

 

[harlequin]

Dear Abe,

I currently have 2 Busch Pressman D 45 cameras, one in rough condition but still takes good photos, the other is only used in studio type setting, I shoot mostly Ilford fp4 and hp5.

The lens boards that I use are Copal 0 and Copal 1.

The lensboards seem to be an Achilles heel for the Busch, as they are small, mine look like someone took a bottle of scotch and metal grinder out to the shed to make the holes 1-2 mm larger.
Additionally there was a chap on eBay who would sell boards, but not available when you needed it and some sort of special handshake to actually purchase.
Your 3D printed boards would be welcomed with open arms provided the cost is reasonable...
Appreciate it, I can give feedback and testimonial as I have been shooting large format since 1985.

Vincent Scott
HArlequin Studio
2112 West University Drive
Unit #214
Edinburg, Texas. 78539

Regards!

 

[Besk]

I have made one or two boards myself. The thickness of the board is important but the location of the hole is most important.
The tapered locking pin needs to pull the lens towards the body slightly rather than just holding the board in place.

 

[DarkRoastArts]

Here I just ordered a 3D printed one from Germany…