What size is my Darlot?

[Mark Sawyer]

I have a Darlot Petzval that I'm trying to figure out. By my measurements, it has a focal length of about 14.5 inches, and a back focus of about 10.5 inches. Its glass elements are 3 inches in diameter, and the main barrel is 4 inches in diameter. Its overall length is 8", including the hood.

In the 1890 Benjamin French catalog, (http://antiquecameras.net/1890lenscatalogue.html), it list four possibilities:

Darlot Portrait Lens, 4-4: 3" diameter, 10 1/2" focus, for 8x10

Darlot Portrait Lens, 4-8: 4" diameter, 15" focus, for 11x14

Darlot Quick-Acting Portrait Lens, Extra 4-4: 4" diameter, 11" focus, for 8x10

Any idea which of these mine would be?

[CCHarrison]

Mark,

I am 95% certain its lens # 1... usually back focus was listed in pre 1900 catalogs, not FL... and the diameter mentioned and catalogs is typically glass diameter not barrel diameter.

Best
Dan

[Mark Sawyer]

Thanks, Dan! I understand all the numbers, but wasn't quite sure which numbers were used in the old catalogs. Your websites are a constant help, as is your presence on the forum!

[CCHarrison]

Thanks for the kind words, Mark.

Best
Dan