Sinar Norma 4x5 ground glass/fresnel arrangement

[LF_rookie_to_be]

Hmmm, this definitely warrants a precise test.

[Frank Petronio]

Since you are new to large format, I wouldn't get too worried about it. It is highly unlikely your camera is out of adjustment since it was probably used professionally for years. If you notice problems then of course you may need help but I would go ahead and make some fun photos to start with and not get too worked up about it.

Sinar itself will still work on Normas, as well as Sinar-Bron in New Jersey. But I prefer Bob Watkins at precisioncameraworks.com in Chicago, he used to work for Sinar. Note that some parts are very expensive, the replacement bubble levels are $140. Bob actually made duplicates that are still expensive but not nearly as much. I have purchased second Normas for parts since they are relatively inexpensive and you can resell the leftovers to recoup your expense. And the truth is, you really don't need bubble levels at all, most of the time I don't even watch them and a $6 pocket level will accomplish the same task should you need one.

A forum member, Phillip Morgan, has created this valuable guide: http://www.philipmorgan.net/the-sinar-norma-cla-guide/ THANK YOU!!!

[Ivan J. Eberle]

The Norma I owned had a plain GG with a clip-in, clip-out Fresnel in the frame with knobs that made it simple to do. Would that I kept it as it also fit my Meridian. Anyhow, the Norma also has a Graflok/Universal back, and it should swap with almost any other back, including a later Sinar model (which the OP's may turn out to be).

[Michael Whyte-Venables]

The Fresnel that was supplied for use with the Norma is inserted BETWEEN the GG and the objective lens. The optical fresnel surface is in contact with the ground surface of the GG, and the GG is therefore moved slightly further from the frame of the back by the fitting of the fresnel; the fresnel compensates for this. To this end the edges of the fresnel are milled thinner to make a rebate like that depicted in the diagram at the beginning of the thread. I have one. That all having been said I don't like it! I think it makes fine focussing more difficult, and it is a fag to fit and remove (being a screwdriver and v. fiddly screw job). The later design, as in the photograph is probably easier to add or remove but I don't have one of these.