I just purchased a Toyo 4x5 field camera, and am trying to clarify exactly what camera I have here. The camera was advertised as a Toyo 45AII, but the camera is labeled "Toyo-Field 45A" on the bottom outside plate. While I would not object to owning a 45A instead, I would not have paid the same price for a 45A as their market values are not the same.
Reading the forum posts here and elsewhere, I have heard several distinctions mentioned between the two models. The problem is that I have only one camera here and am not comparing the two side by side. Below are some details that I hope will help those familiar with both models to identify this camera:
- First and foremost, the inside front standard says "TOYO-VIEW 45AII" and the outside bottom plate says "TOYO-VIEW 45A." This could be because:
(a) all Toyo 45A/AII cameras say "45A" on the outside (this possibility can quickly be confirmed or dismissed by current 45AII owners)
(b) this is a "transition body" where it's functionally a 45AII but has the 45A label on the outside (e.g., early Hasselblad 500C/M bodies still said 500C but were functionally 500C/M's, referred to as transition bodies)
(c) all Toyo 45AII cameras say "45AII," and this camera is a 45A and has had a replacement front standard from a 45AII installed
(d) other
- I have read that the color changed from glossy to matte. My camera has glossy (if comparing to wall paint) paint and matte leatherette. I'm not clear which (paint or leatherette) is being discussed when someone says they changed from glossy to matte.
- I have read that the knobs on 45A cameras are plastic and do not have rubber around them, and that 45AII cameras have metal knobs with rubber. My camera has plastic knobs with rubber. The knobs on the front standard are metal with rubber, but all other knobs are plastic and have a rubber inset around the knob).
- I have read that some components have Teflon coating in the 45AII, but without a second camera for comparison, I would need more detail to know how to tell if my camera has the new coating. I have not noticed any Teflon, however.
I appreciate any insights anyone may have.
Thanks,
Kevin
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