10x8 Instant from Impossible

[Toyo45FieldCam]

Dear Forum, Has anyone used the 10x8 instant products from Impossible? Either Col or Mono? I would be interested in hearing any information before I take the plunge. Thanks Tim

[AtlantaTerry]

Does that film need a machine for processing or is it peel-apart?

I ask because (if I remember correctly) when Polaroid was making their 8x10" instant film, one had to use a machine for processing it.

[Charles S]

It needs a processing machine

[Toyo45FieldCam]

Yes, reply from Charles S is correct. It needs a large (electric powered) processor. I used to have one, but sold when Polaroid, and the materials vanished. The 10x8 material from Impossible presumably works in the same way, a neg in a sleeve that you load into a polaroid film holder, which was a side opening single darkslide.
Exposed then placed into a loading tray along with a sheet of polaroid pos paper, both are then dragged through a set of powered rollers to the other side of the processor to be peeled apart manually like a smaller format instant print.
I believe Calumet made a manual 'field' version that you can hand crank the materials through. I saw one on ebay for $1000 (!). So I know the process but not how the Impossible product actually performs, other than their own info. It's an expensive option so I wanted to find out more before spending on a processor again. ATB Tim

[Fred L]

While the IP 8x10 film can be peeled apart. I found peeling was tricky and you cld leave some emulsion behind. The image is reversed if left unpeeled but if you want correct orientation or to do lifts, then you need to peel.

I have the powered and manual processors and found the manual one, while great for working in the field, was not as consistent as the electric one. You needed a steady rhythm while cranking the rollers or else there might be marks where one slowed down or hesitated.

It's a pricey product but it's the only thing of its kind out there, notwithstanding expired Polaroid product.

[Drew Bedo]

Spiratone used to sell a front mounted 90Deg mirror that will re-reverse the image.

"Circo-Mirro-Tach" or something similar I think they called it.

[dannirr]

Fred - are you saying that you no longer peel them apart? I just started with these today.

[Fred L]

well you cld peel if you wanted to, but otherwise, leave them as they come out of the processor, if you're ok with flipped orientation.

[Charles S]

I scan the image and flip it in PS

[dannirr]

Peeling it does nothing for the reversed image. It is purely for image stability and to reduce the risk go humidity ruining the image before it is fully dry. I asked if you leave it unpeeled as I was interested in the long term outcome of the image