advantages of 6x9 view camera ?

[tor kviljo]

I did the same as You - starting with a Linhof super technika III 6x9 - very numerous in Europe & thus quite cheap (but often rather abused). Limited movements & not so very good backs (only Linhof's Rollex'es fitted the Tech III/6x9) made me change to Horseman's 900 (press, 970, 985)- series and finally the VHR. Very capable & the VHR even able to use standard Mamiya RB backs. However at that time I had also invested in 4"x5", and even if the bigger format meant more weight, the much bigger gg-screen made up for that. The big fim format & film selection is another issue. I use a number of different films, so for me the grafmatic and 2-sheet film holders is perfect when as much as 4 types of film is brought along. Having 3-4 roll film holders for VHR were out of the question, and 6x9 sheet film rare - the few times I used it I had to cut film myself from 9x12cm (split to 6x9cm for use in european size 2"x3" cassettes). The Horseman VHR were sold a few years back, having stand idle for a few years more as only the 4"x5" & 8"x10" (old Norma) vere used. I don't think I will use a 6x9 view again, feeling all to comfortable with a GG of 4"x5" at least. If You enjoy using the GG for careful composition, not just for quick & dirty framing, focus & the standard upward shift...., I think You will find the GG of a 6x9 to small. The 4"x5" seems to be a sort of minimum useful, the 8"x10" a total joy, but then I have not tryed a 12"x20"... However, 2"x3" monorails seems easy to sell/sought after & scarce, so You should not have problems if You deside to swap.

However, if You keep your 6x9 and still need a wide angle, the Mamiya Press 50mm f 6.3 (Biogon design I belive) is a possibility often overlooked. It covers 6x9, but with little movements, short back focus. I have removed a Mamiya Press 75mm from focussing mount, remounting it for Sinar as a verywide on 4"x5" (slight vignetting - but excellent 6x12cm's), so that is usually easy with the press-lenses.

And then You can post the standard question: "what is the best 4"x5" for my needs?" and keep people at LFF busy for som time

Good luck!

[Ron Spencer]

Hi Percy,

If you decide that you want to sell your Toyo 23G, let me know. I am looking for one. My email is shadowpilot101@yahoo.ca

Thanks, Ron

[Percy]

Don't have it any longer. I found it too difficult to realize the effects of movements BEFORE tripping the shutter. It's a well built camera though.

I've done some looking around. B&H has a used one for sale.

Good luck.

Percy