I just noticed when I signed in that I haven't visited this forum since 30 June 2009 when I'd just found good homes for the LF camera lenses I'd won at an auction.

It's been an odd seven months for me as my chronic lung congestion was lung cancer which was removed (along with the two lower lobes of my right lung) on July 8, 2009. Recovery including chemo (certified cancer free now) sure has been a long drawn out affair. I'm afraid I had little interest in any hobbies but I'm feeling so much better, spring can't be that far off, and I'd like to get out to try out some of my old cameras again.

My wife and I had spent May in France visiting family and house hunting. I'd already had an odd cough before leaving and it returned with a vengance while there. Doctor sent me to specialist upon our return, CAT scan showed nasty growth (1 3/8 in diameter) in lung, and things went quickly from there.

We did return to France in September and bought a townhouse in a very small town near Avignon. We plan to share our time between our two homes now. The village dates back to the 13th Century so there are plenty of old buildings in the area to take photos of. Roman and Greek ruins too.

I kinda went nuts on E-Bay a couple days ago and bid on a Graflex Pacemaker Speed Graphic camera with accessories. I won it so I'm wondering now if I'll be a Large Format camera user.

By the way, I'm surprised none of you guys didn't beat me to in on E-Bay. It was hidden over in Parts Camera listing so perhaps not noticable. Seller said it had been in storage a long time somewhere so dusty. I'll enjoy cleaning it up.

It's a Graflex Speed Graphic 2X3 with a Kodak Ektar F:4.5X101mm lens. Pre 1955 as the Kalart Range Finder is sidemounted. Since it's 2X3, is it Large Format or should I consider it MF.

It includes a Graflex 23 Graphic 120 Roll Film holder, one Fidelity Deluxe 2X3 cut film holder, 4 Lisco Regal 2X3 and 7 Graflex 2X3 Type 5 cut film holders. Assuming it works, I'll probably use the 120 roll film holder as I'm not set up to do my own film development.

The seller also says it includes a 35mm black (color?) folding film adapter. There is a photo of stange looking film adapter with what could be 24X36 opening. Has anyone heard of a 35mm adapter for a Graflex 2X3? I'll find out what it is when I actually get the thing in the mail later this week. It includes a Slick tripod, film changing bag, light meter, Tiffen Series 6 ring adapter, and other stuff.

I've never used a camera of this type before so I'll probably hit you guys up with lots of dumb questions. I've found the Graflex tech site which will certainly be helpful.

Thanx in advance for past help and future help too.

Tom in Oklahoma