I just saw a Linhof Technika for sale at what seems like a very good price. I had never seen one before but it seems to be very well built and sturdy.
I would love a word or two from any users of this camera on what's good about it AND what the drawbacks are. When i was looking at this one I couldn't figure out how to make the front standard tilt. Linhofs DO tilt, no?
Thanks!
The Technika III was made from 1946 to 1956. The Technika IV from 56 to the 60s. The Technika V from the 60s to 1976. The current master Technika from 1976 to today.
What were you offered?
If you are not sure get the serial number.
Technika IV and later all use the same accessories. There are no current accessories from Linhof for a III (that means accessories not made for over 20 years). There are no dedicated repair parts for all technika III and early Technika IV models.
Before you buy make sure what you are buying.
"I couldn't figure out how to make the front standard tilt. Linhofs DO tilt, no? "
IV, V and Master 45 cameras do. III cameras only have rear wards lens tilt.
All have drop beds.
I have a IV. To make the front tilt, use the two knobs at the top of the standard. One will loosen if you turn it counter clock wise. That is the locking knob. The other is a catch and must be pushed in to free the top of the standard.
The back is even more fun to play with.
Neal
The weak point of the Technika is its bellows - it is very thin and goes bad much quicker than most similar cameras. Every few years it will cost about $400 to replace. Otherwise they are built like a tank. If I were going to the Gobi Desert for a year, I would take a Technika.
David,
The Linhof Technika is, to my way of thinking, the benchmark LF field camera by which all others must be evaluated.
Build quality and capabilities are truly remarkable and for most field applications the range of possible adjustment is more than adequate; indeed it will even suffice for a lot of studio work. Although I had used Technikas for many years I did not buy one until 2000 and it quickly rendered my Sinar superfluous. I sold the Sinar and work faster and more easily with the Linhof.
You ask about disadvantages; there are some peculiarities that you quickly come to terms with but these are simply trade-offs for size, weight and construction technique.
1. I have long believed that the camera was originally idealised for the European 9x12 format resulting in a small mechanical vignette in the extreme corners of 4x5 caused by the rotating back track.
2. Similarly, the bellows is very tight on the edges of the 4x5 image area and precautions are essential to minimise the risk of bellows flare.
3. To acieve lens fall with short focal lengths it is necessary, at times, to mount the camera upside down. Later models have a threaded mount on the top plate to facilitate this. Earlier there was an outrigger arm for the same purpose.
4. There is a limit to the size of rear lens section that will fit the lens standard.
My camera is the Master Technika 2000. I use it with lenses from Apo-Grandagon 35mm to Nikkor-T 600mm. Although the size and weight of the 600mm stretch limits and necessitate the employment of a second tripod the camera still performs with considerable aplomb.
Biased? You bet, but with good reason.
Happy New Year ... Walter
"I have long believed that the camera was originally idealised for the European 9x12 format resulting in a small mechanical vignette in the extreme corners of 4x5 caused by the rotating back track."
Darned if there idn't. I thought that was the film holder. Now I know why my work doesn't hang in Museums. Think there is a class action in this? Anybody a lawyer?
Neal
Hi, David I'm not a Technika user, but, as I was looking for informations before purchasing a LF camera, I found a good review about those cameras. Just have a look on www.cameraquest.com, it's a Technika 4X5 used buying guide, pretty well done. regards
Hi...
I own a tech V and have been using it for a while. It's a great camera almost as sturdy as a battle tank.
It sets up quite fast (actually faster that my father in law's wista), and it's quite easy to use. The movements are very complete (all but front drop).
The only draw back (besides it's not a cheap camera) is that back movements are not as easy to do as in other cameras (but are more flexible). You should unscrew four knobs (one on each corner) and the back releases for movement in any direction, you place the back in the desired position and then tigth the knobs.
IMHO is a very good camera and don't regret to have it.
Enrique.-
I have a tech V 2x3 and am now considering a 4x5...esp with the sale on at this time. You cant go wrong with this camera...a real gem.
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