I have been using a Toyo G45 for only one year now (so I am still a "newbie") and I am totally hooked on LF. So being one of the fools who rush in where angels fear to tread, I plan to spend some time restoring an old wooden 8x10 camera. The problem is that I know nothing about what I am getting into. I am not concerned that restoring a camera lessens its value to collectors and purists as I am not looking to make a profit from this work. I want a camera that will both look good and function properly as I intend to use it quite often once completed. I am only willing to spend $700 to acquire the camera itself so I doubt that a Deardorff will be in my future. I also want a camera for which I can find, or have made, any missing parts. With those limitations in mind I have 2 questions. First, which manufacturers/cameras would you recommend I acquire for this project. Second, are there any books or websites that describe the restoration process (i.e. what tools, chemicals (paint/varnish remover), or skills I will need)? Any and all advise (speculation) is deeply appreciated.
Let me express my thanks to all of the very knowledgeable and kind people who are willing to take the time to share their knowledge and experiences to help others along the path to LF bliss, if there is such a thing. The only bliss I find is when the image actually appears, hauling all of the equipment around to make the image is definitely NOT bliss; at least not to my 50 year old, kidney transplanted, dodenal ulcerated, and gall bladder removed body!
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