The absolute nicest rangefinder camera I've ever used, any format, was the Kalart Press camera with the built-in focuspot. Unfortunately it only came in 3-1/4 x 4-1/4 (?). I would take one of those over the Leica M2 I used for a couple of years.
Beautiful! I've got to look into this idea some more.
I shot a 3x4 for awhile as well as a 2-1/4 x 3-1/4. I actually still have film holders for both. I also shot a RB IN 3X4 which was a nice camera but the low angle was not my style. I was lucky to get one with good speeds tho. Fun cameras all but I love the bigger neg, even tho that Poloroid conversion is tempting if I could make one.
PRJ, I did several conversions of Polaroid 110s following "Option8's" guide, https://www.instantoptions.com/how-to/. My cameras are set up to shoot pack film, but assume the process is similar for a 4x5 film back. These cameras and their images are simply stunning!
I built a Polaroid conversion about eight years ago, but ultimately did not enjoy using it. I believe the medium format competition is better - what they lack in image size, they make up for in handling and operational speed. Mamiya 7, Makina 67, Fuji GF670 and GW series are much better cameras for this style of shooting, in my opinion. I have never used a Chamonix Saber but would really like to.
I got rid of the anatomical grip for my Linhof Tech V, but added a hand strap and kept the rangefinder and viewfinder. I usually want to be more meticulous in composition with this camera but it's nice to have the option of handheld shooting.
Looks like you did a heck of a good job on that!
I built my cameras at the worst times. The first one I built was a Polaroid 250 with a Schneider lens to shoot 665. Then 665 was discontinued. So I upsized. Then 55 disappeared too...
If you've made one with a Polaroid back, all you have to do is attach a 4x5 back (centered of course) to the Polaroid back and adjust the lens backwards. It is pretty simple to do but takes a lot of time to get it all right. I'd encourage you to do it. You can still shoot Polaroid peel apart film with a Polaroid back. The camera looks kind of funny with a second Polaroid back on it though. I used a Sinar back on the ones I built but they have to be machined so you probably wouldn't want to go that route. I think a Horseman back would work.
Put a Grafmatic back on it and go to town. Easy peasy!
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