Wee Linhof Knock-Off

[Annie]

The other day I encountered a camera that looks a lot like a small Technika technical field camera. It was apparently made in Canada had one production run then Linhof initiated legal proceedings and that was the end of the wee Canadian version... this may be a prototype as it has no manufactures markings. The camera has a case, a dozen little film holders (2 ½ x 3 ½ ) & only one lens, front movements and a bed that extends and it is in nice shape.

Now I am in one of those 'make me an offer' dilemmas.... I have searched the web and have yet to come up with something comparable. So I am wondering if anyone has an idea of what a 'reasonable offer' would be for this type of equipment or if there are other comparable cameras that I could research to determine a dollar figure.

Thanks!!

 

[David A. Goldfarb]

Look at prices for the MPP technical field cameras. They are often compared to Linhof in design, movements available and build quality. I think a nice MPP version V 4x5" usually can be had for around $500 with an older lens, or approximately the cost of a Tech III. Also take into account whether the lensboards look like they can be easily fabricated (best if they are just flat simple rectangular boards with no light trap or complicated cuts) so you can add lenses to this system, and whether it can take a rollfilm back, because you might not want to be limited to films available in 2x3 sheets.

 

[Annie]

David,

Thanks for the information and the tip on the lensboards. I'll take another look at it and make an offer with your advice in mind.

Annie