DIY Rigid Fresnel

**Bob Salomon** · 31-Jul-2019, 06:40

Originally Posted by esearing

Chamonix uses a thin piece of glass over the Fresnel so it doesn't get scratched. Lens > groundGlass > Fresnel > thin glass. The only issue I have with this arrangement is fogging in humid conditions.

Wista does also and their cover glass is available by itself should one break. Only 45 though.

**diversey** · 2-Aug-2019, 12:48

Thanks! I bought those fresnel lenses and put them my 5x7 and 8x10 camera ground glasses. They light images on ground glasses very well. Amazing product, highly recommended.

Originally Posted by Daniel Unkefer

https://www.ebay.com/itm/2-Magnifier...EAAOSwBahVRS38

I installed some like these in my Plaubel Makina IIIR and II. I like them!

I used scotch magic tape to install them on the OUTSIDE of the glass.

**Daniel Unkefer** · 2-Aug-2019, 13:48

Good. It isn't always about doing something expensive.

**Peter De Smidt** · 3-Aug-2019, 10:04

Yes, good to know!

**blindpig** · 18-Aug-2019, 09:06

Originally Posted by Peter De Smidt

Yes, good to know!

I have a 4X5 Crown Graphic that came with a fresnel lens installed on the ground side of the GG ridges toward the lens and it's worked well for over 50 years I've owned it.The camera back was modified to leave the GG in it's proper position relative to the film plane.
If someone is looking for a fresnel lens larger than 8X10 you need to locate an old projection television set they have really large fresnel lenses and a large front surface mirror as well.Just a thought.
Don

**mdarnton** · 18-Aug-2019, 15:09

And if you don't have a table saw you can score the smooth side deeply and then snap the plastic, though it does take some force, then sand the edge to a nice finish.. The nice thing about the reading fresnel is that the lines are much farther apart which means that they don't obscure the image as much as a regular fresnels are inclined to do for me. I actually like them better. Plus, cheap.