I came across this Sinar P at a local shop and have questions regarding the sad state. Firstly, the rear rail clamp lever travels beyond vertical to clamp securely to the rail. Something just isn't right. I'm not sure if this can be fixed or if it's worth fixing. Secondly, the camera appears to be two front standard assemblies. When the front and rear controls are on the same side, the coarse tilt locking lever prevents the front and rear from getting close to each other. It was impossible to focus a 90 mm lens. I flipped the rear around to fix the issue, but then the controls are on different sides. Thirdly, just a minor issue, one rail cap it missing.
The bellows are in great condition. The fine focus is perfect. The tilt/swing knobs have some play, but the same as a supposedly good condition P I tried out at the same time. All movement have the zero position notch. The ground glass is the original Sinar. The Sinar tripod head looks like it's from the 70's. Two of the bubble levels are dried out. The gg back springs are good.
A Reflex viewer is included, but it's being held together with tape. That said, I was able to focus in direct sunlight, so at least it works.
I'm wondering whether going with this Charlie Brown Sinar for a low price would be worth it (assuming I just use it as is), whether anyone would buy it from me in the future, and whether I should just wait for a decent P2 to come along.
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