Collection Update

I thought about bringing out my collection, you know, just to see what I have at the moment. I now have 20 cameras, 17 of which I laid on the living room table. The 3 left out were at hand, but I just didn't get around to including them. Anyway, here they are..

In this section, we have my prized 10 euro Leicina RT-1, the two Russians, a Sankyo, and two that are unfortunately not functioning (yet!). Its the Eumig and the Agfa.

The next section has my current fave, the Bolex, a Nizo, 2 Bauers, and what's looking to be my straight8 camera, the Yashica.

Finally, here we have 3 Revues, a Lancia, and my 2 Canon 514 xl's.

The whole Super 8 thing (filming, collecting) keeps me sane these days..

Later!

Bolex 155 and Tri-x possibilities

COMMONPLACE from MSL on Vimeo.

Bolex 155 Vintage Ad

Post presents

Well not really presents because they're all paid for. But still, it was great to receive them. The first one was the book "The Ultimate Filmmaker's Guide to Short Films". I hope this helps me think of a concept for the Straight8 thing.

The next two are these packages (which turned out to be HUGE) that were delivered to tita Erma's place in Trier. I usually have packages that originate in Germany sent to her address (genius right?).

One is the Revue Direct sound 8 that came in an even bigger leather case. The camera seemed to be ok, and sure enough the film transport still works when I tested it. The only problem is the lens, it looks like its scratched or with Fungus or something. Further testing and inspection to follow. Did I mention this thing was damn heavy?

The other was my much-awaited Bolex 155 macrozoom. Yes, my first Swiss. i popped in 4 batteries and at first it looked like it wasn't functional. But after some persistence, it turned out to be a working piece. It's simply a thing of beauty. Stats and reviews for both cameras soon.

Later!

Sushi!

Ok this is a day or two overdue, but I just really wanted to show this on here. The sushi resto that I am working at (nicest people you'll ever see), keeps giving me what else..sushi! Well maki to be precise. And a lot of em!

later!

Photo shop Finds

Went to Fototrade near our place with tita Erma the other day, and got these misc stuff. First off, two cameras. A Lancia EM-52, and an Agfa Microflex.






I wasn't really going to get the Lancia, but tita Erma put up a good bargaining session, so I got it anyway. It's a bit beat-up, with the metal of the lens a bit dented. It was also missing its battery pack.


But when I tested it with a batt pack from my CE 40, it still functions, so I'm a bit pleased with it.

The Agfa was another story. This I was really planning to buy (because of the cuteness factor I guess), and even the corroded batt contacts didn't deter me. Alas, all is not well, as even cleaning wasn't enough to get this baby rolling again. Oh well, they gave a good price for it so its a good deal nonetheless. It's another cam on my repair list.

I also got a nice bag for my Leicina for 5€. Its got a nice lock as well.



Also got a filter of sorts. Its the only one to fit my Revue so I got it , for 2€. I also got a lens cap for my RT-1.


Can't wait to go back there and do some more digging...

Later!

of Tri-X's and projectors

This package came in the mail today. Its the two Tri-X's and the all important Osram projector bulb I ordered from the ever dependable BlueCinetech in UK. Let me just say, these guys are real pro's. They even wrote some apologies on the invoice for the late deliveries (not that I was in a hurry in the first place). Great doing business with these people.

So here are the two B&W film cartidges, which according to my test shoot batch list, will be exposed by my Nizo 116 and Revue CE 40. These are two of my better-conditioned cameras, and I am raring to shoot some footage with them. If only I can get some sun here in my neck of the woods..

As for the much needed bulb, I proceeded to put it on the projector right away..with excellent results! I'm almost done watching the disney/woody woodpecker flick I have haha..I think its time to watch some more films on it.

Zenit Quarz 1x8C-2

This is my Zenit Quarz (Qvarz) 1x8C-2 (export version name,original name - 1x8S-2). Its an old spring driven Russian beauty. Just by handling it you get the feeling of sturdiness from its metal body. Haven't shot with this one, but its on my next batch. Here are her specs from super8aid:

marketed since 1974 until 1993
production: 30,1102 u
silent super 8 cartridge
film frame: 4.22 x 5.69 mm
lens: Meteor-8M-1 f: 1.8 \ F: 9-38 mm
zooming ratio: 4.2x
focusing: manual, microprism
zooming: manual
filter size: 46 mm
viewfinder: single-lens reflex with adjustable eyepiece: +/- 5 diopters
viewfinder information: f-stop scale at the bottom of the frame
exposure: auto and manual exposure control; TTL Electric Eye
aperture range: f/1.8 to f/22
CCA filter: built-in 85A filter, with filter selector
film speed: auto for 40/50 ASA (18 DIN)
exposure compensation: +/- 2 f/stops (2)
filming speed: 9, 12, 18, 24, 32 fps, single frame
shutter opening angle: <180 degrees
shutter speed: 1/22 sec for 9 fps, 1/29 sec for 12 fps, 1/43 sec for 18 fps, 1/58 sec for 24 fps, 1/77 sec for 32 fps
sound: no
cable release socket: yes
movie light socket: no
handle: detachable
camera drive: spring powered motor (about 33 seconds at 18 fps)
power source: 2 x 1.3V batteries for light meter (PX13 o PX625)
battery check button: no
film counter: yes
weight: 1100 g (2.42 lb)
dimensions: 70 x 105 x 200 mm
tripod socket: 1/4"
made in Russia by Zenit
(1) russian name: 1x8C-2; exportation name: 1x8S-2
(2) this camera uses an adjustable switch for setting the film speed. Film speed settings:
12 ASA (12 DIN) with -2 f/stop
32/25 ASA (15 DIN) with -1 f/stop
50/40 ASA (18 DIN) with 0 f/stop
100 ASA (21 DIN) with +1 f/stop
200 ASA (24 DIN) with +2 f/stop

I had my mind on Tri-X for it, but then I noticed that it was on the "Cameras that will not meter correctly, but have manual override" list on super8wiki. Now this got me thinking. I still have a LOT to learn on f-stops and stuff, and I would definitely need a copy of this camera's manual (my .pdf is in German). Maybe I'll ask around in forums as to just how I can manually override or set the meter on this thing..

Later!