Western/Rochester Cyclone no. 5 plate box camera

[Thorpelyon]

I’m seriously considering picking one of these up. But I’ve noticed most listings have incomplete septums, ie: only 5 of the original 12 plate septums survive. Are these cameras still operational with a less-than-full septum chamber?
Thanks for any help...
James

 

[Ron (Netherlands)]

Don't have one, but looking at this picture it seems the plateholders are pressed forward by a spring. So in case the spring is strong enough it might work with less than 12 plateholders. If not, than one could put a piece of wood after the last plateholder to get enough springtension. But again looking at this picture, the spring should even be adequate to push the last plate forward, so should work with less than 12 plateholders in the camera.

 

[Thorpelyon]

Thanks, Ron... I think I'll give it a try. It'll be my New Year's gift to myself.

 

[removed account4]

I have. #5 and #3 it probably works with fewer. Septi... my 3 had 6 septi for 18 years and works fine... the 5 has a crank /key you turn instead of a knob to jiggle ...
Have fun ! I love my cyclones..
John

 

[Thorpelyon]

That’s great... thanks. I’m pulling the trigger!