Want to Buy WTB Whole plate film holders 6.5x8.5

[Roger Thoms]

Hi, just bought a whole plate camera from an APUG member and now I need some film holder. I know I can buy new ones, but am hoping to find used ones that will fit my limited budget better.

Thanks,
Roger

 

[Steve Goldstein]

Unlike the more common smaller (not ULF) formats, whole plate holders are not of standard size. You need to measure your back to figure out what you need. Key measurements will be holder width and the distance from the "tape end" to the far side of the lock strip. Another key will be the "T" dimension, i.e. the depth from the front of the holder to the surface of the film/groundglass. That's a much tougher measurement to make, though.

What brand is your camera?

 

[Roger Thoms]

Thanks for the info Steve, this is all new to me. I am still waiting for the camera. The camera is a Seneca Camera City View. Here is a link to the ad. http://www.apug.org/forums/classifieds.php?do=showad&adid=1356&title=sold-full-plate-camera-seneca-camera-mfg-co-camera-city-view-any-interest

Everything was just fine, I was perfectly happy with my 4x5. Then I made some lens boards for Seneca view camera for a LF forum member. The edge details are more complex than most lens boards and the black lacquer was very nice on the sample board. It was down hill from there.

When I get the camera I'll make the necessary measurements and hopefully be able to find the correct holders.

Roger

Roger

 

[Oren Grad]

Roger -

Forget about trying to match the T dimension. Unless you're willing to have holders custom-built to match your camera, you'll just have to take what you can get in that respect. For basic fit, I believe the Seneca should be OK with Eastman-type holders, which are the most common type of older WP holder. Anyway, check the holder's external dimensions and/or buy with a return privilege and you'll be fine. Also, don't forget that plate holders with film sheaths are a viable alternative, in case you happen to run across those first.

Good luck, and enjoy!

 

[Roger Thoms]

Oren, thanks for the info. A forum member in the UK is sending a Kodak whole plate holder so that is encouraging
Roger