Wisner 4x5 field camera model differences

[rbultman]

I've seen 2 different models of the Wisner 4x5 field camera listed for sale here and elsewhere. There are a few differences but I can't find any that would make a difference in way the camera is used.

One is simply described as a field camera and has:
1) a small name plate, without serial number, with just Wisner Classic Manufacturing Co., Marion (?) Massachusetts engraved on it.
2) two tripod holes locate in 2 different tripod hole inserts in the bottom of the camera
3) the wooden piece that forms the bottom bracket for the rear standard is square on the bottom

The other is described as a technical field camera and has:
1) a larger name plate, with serial number, and includes Wisner Technical Field Camera engraved on it along with the location.
2) two tripod holes machined into a single insert in the bottom of the camera
3) the wooden piece that forms the bottom bracket for the rear standard appear to be bevelled or rounded on the bottom, making it look easer to operate the locking knobs for the read swing movement.

Both cameras seem to have the same hardware, i.e. brackets, knobs, etc. Based on this it looks like they have the same movements.

Other than the few differences above, I cannot find any differences in the cameras that would make any difference in the use of the camera. Is one possibly an older model than the other? Does one have different features? Is one more durable or easier to use (better lock-downs,etc) than the other?

Thanks,
Rob

[Ken Lee]

See these links

http://www.largeformatphotography.info/cameras/wisner-expedition-technical/WisnerCatalog300dpiMonoChrome.pdf

http://www.johndesq.com/jdp/wisner.htm (http://www.johndesq.com/jdp/wisner.htm)

[rbultman]

Thanks Ken. I have viewed both of those links previously and used the photos from the PDF to come to the conclusion that both of the units I mentioned above are the Technical Field Camera, even though the first one is not labeled as such. I'm wondering if the first one is actually an early model, perhaps the first model made by Wisner, before additional models were added to the portfolio. I'm trying to get some confirmation of this from people who own then or can otherwise confirm that this is the case.

Regards,
Rob

[John Kasaian]

It's part of the charm of hand built wooden cameras.

[Alan9940]

Hello Rob,

The first one may be the model that Wisner made for Zone VI Studios when that relationship was alive and well. When that relationship ended and Ron started building/selling on his own, I believe he went with the name Wisner Technical Field as much to describe the changes he made to the camera and to separate it from the Zone VI/Wisner model. The trouble with identifying these earlier Wisner models is due to the very tumultuous relationship between Fred and Ron, IMO anyway.

Btw, there were other Wisner 4x5's like the Pocket Expedition, for example. This model was a lighter weight version of the Technical Field; something you may wish to keep in mind if you're thinking about buying one. Very capable cameras, though.

Good luck!

[Drew Bedo]

Wisner used to advertise a camera called "The Flight" in a fitted wooden case. Has anyone ever seen one of these sets?

[scm]

The big difference between the Wisner Traditional and the Technical Field is the rear rise and rear base tilt on the Technical Field. Most of the other construction details can be seen on either model, probably just depending on the vintage or what was on hand at the time.

http://stevemidgleyphotography.com/_MG_6890x.jpg
Wisner Traditional Field

http://stevemidgleyphotography.com/_MG_8195x.jpg
Wisner Technical Field


The Zone VI Classic that was manufactured by Wisner is easily identified by the front name plate. This camera is similar to both the Zone VI and the Wisner Traditional but identical to neither. They are quite uncommon, only a hundred or so were produced.

http://stevemidgleyphotography.com/IMG_1974x.jpg

http://stevemidgleyphotography.com/Wisner_Z6-1x.jpg