Where to buy parts for this camera?

[campy51]

I have a Seneca 8X10 that's in good condition except it's missing some parts and want to know where I might find them. Also other than a lens and a film holder I think it's ready to go unless you see something else that's missing. I have the back but it won't stay in place without the clips needed.

 

[bdial]

Aside from fabricating them, the best place would be another Seneca that isn't in good condition, but has its hardware.
The next best alternative would be a parts camera from another maker, like a Korona or perhaps a Kodak 2D. The metal brackets on all of them are similar, but won't be exactly the same. Finding a suitable parts camera could take some time.
You could also try Richard Ritter, he does a lot of LF repair work and may have pieces or a parts donor available.

Note that even if you find Seneca parts, you may need to relocate the pins on the back that engage your missing clips once you find suitable ones. I had to do that with a Korona that I repaired and married a back and camera body from different vintages.

 

[campy51]

Who is Richard Ritter and where do I find him?

 

[bdial]

He is a builder and fixer of large format cameras, among other things, located in Vermont, and at lg4mat.net (his website).

 

[campy51]

Thanks, I just sent him an email with the pictures.

 

[ic-racer]

Those part will be only available on another camera. You can make them out of brass.

 

[shutterfinger]

You have sufficient impressions on the camera to make a template for the retainers. The pictures in this 1910 Seneca Catalog shows the New Improved Seneca View http://piercevaubel.com/cam/catalogs/1910senecalp199.htm which is the only model in their line whose retainers match the impressions on the body. Use .035 brass plate. Slot head brass screws are available at https://www.boltdepot.com/default.aspx The originals were most likely #1 wood screws with either a flat or oval head 1/4 inch long.

 

[Ian Grant]

I actually need exactly the same parts for a 7x5 Seneca City View, I've place wanted adverts to no avail other Rochester manufacturers used the same fittings - there were some parts being sold here but only one of a pair of the clips to hold a back. So when I get around to it I'll make my own, I have the advantage of already having another 7x5 City View and a 7x5 New Improved View so have part patterns to copy.

Ian