Results 1 to 10 of 10

Thread: Century Graphic 2 1/4 X 3 1/4 lens question

  1. #1

    Join Date
    Jun 2008
    Location
    Peterborough, NH
    Posts
    31

    Century Graphic 2 1/4 X 3 1/4 lens question

    We have just acquired a Century Graphic 2 1/4 X 3 1/4 for my wife's use, but cannot figure how to open the shutter on the Graflar f/4.5 101mm to focus using the ground glass. (Practical) Advice would be welcome. Cheers, David

  2. #2

    Join Date
    Sep 2003
    Location
    Harbor City, California
    Posts
    1,750

    Re: Century Graphic 2 1/4 X 3 1/4 lens question

    I'm not sure which shutter you have, but the usual approach if it has only a "Bulb" setting is to use a cable release with a lock to hold it open.

    If this isn't the answer you need, please describe the shutter.

  3. #3

    Join Date
    Jan 2001
    Posts
    4,589

    Re: Century Graphic 2 1/4 X 3 1/4 lens question

    Most Century Graphics come with a shutter which has a "T" position (T = time). Press the shutter release once to open the shutter for viewing, and again to close the shutter.
    Great little camera. Have fun!
    Wilhelm (Sarasota)

  4. #4

    Join Date
    Jun 2008
    Location
    Peterborough, NH
    Posts
    31

    Re: Century Graphic 2 1/4 X 3 1/4 lens question

    Nope! This one doesn't have a "T". The lenses that I have for my 4X5 MPP VII all have a preview button (or a "T" stop), but this little lens does not. But thanks for the suggestion. Cheers, David

  5. #5

    Join Date
    Dec 2001
    Location
    NJ
    Posts
    8,470

    Re: Century Graphic 2 1/4 X 3 1/4 lens question

    Hmm. I just looked at the Century shutter my 103/4.5 Graftar is in. It has a "T" speed, all the way at the left end of the shutter speed scale, after B and 200. No blade arrester, as I suggested on www.graflex.org

    When you ask questions about a shutter, it really helps to identify it.

    Cheers,

    Dan

  6. #6

    Join Date
    Jan 2000
    Location
    Boulder, CO
    Posts
    86

    Re: Century Graphic 2 1/4 X 3 1/4 lens question

    It's possible your lens came from a TLR, hence no preview lever; however I would still expect it to have a "T" setting. I'm guessing the shutter is a Rapax or a Graphex (they're identical) if not, what brand is it?

    If you're more familiar with Copal shutters, the Rapax/Graphex operates differently; the shutter must be cocked before depressing the preview button. On Compurs, (depending on vintage) there may be a small button opposite the shutter speed pointer which must be moved back and held before firing the shutter at any speed to enter preview mode.

    Perhaps you could post a photo of your shutter so we could better understand your problem.

  7. #7

    Join Date
    Jun 2008
    Location
    Peterborough, NH
    Posts
    31

    Re: Century Graphic 2 1/4 X 3 1/4 lens question

    The shutter in question is a Prontor-SVS with stops which range from B and from 1 - 300.

  8. #8

    Re: Century Graphic 2 1/4 X 3 1/4 lens question

    Quote Originally Posted by msrdsdr View Post
    The shutter in question is a Prontor-SVS with stops which range from B and from 1 - 300.

    You can always set it on "B" and hold the cable release while you focus.

  9. #9

    Join Date
    Jun 2008
    Location
    Peterborough, NH
    Posts
    31

    Re: Century Graphic 2 1/4 X 3 1/4 lens question

    Thanks to all those who responded... and apologies to those who found the posting of the same question on other forums to be offensive (or unnecessary)!

  10. #10

    Join Date
    Oct 2003
    Location
    St. Simons Island, Georgia
    Posts
    880

    Re: Century Graphic 2 1/4 X 3 1/4 lens question

    My Prontor has a separate little lever that opens the shutter for focusing. It is not the same as the lever that sets the shutter times. IIRC, this one presses down towards the lens.
    juan

Similar Threads

  1. LF lens manufacturer philosophy
    By Chris Bitmead in forum Lenses & Lens Accessories
    Replies: 23
    Last Post: 8-Oct-2007, 01:12
  2. A slightly different lens spacing question
    By Donald Qualls in forum Lenses & Lens Accessories
    Replies: 9
    Last Post: 20-May-2005, 00:07
  3. Wollensak 84mm lens for crown graphic
    By Kevin Hollis in forum Lenses & Lens Accessories
    Replies: 7
    Last Post: 15-May-2005, 16:52
  4. OMG Not another what should I buy for my first LF lens question!
    By Ed Candland in forum Lenses & Lens Accessories
    Replies: 11
    Last Post: 24-Feb-2002, 14:39
  5. Advice on Crown Graphic and a 90mm lens
    By Peter Lowe in forum Lenses & Lens Accessories
    Replies: 4
    Last Post: 5-Mar-1998, 13:08

Bookmarks

Posting Permissions

  • You may not post new threads
  • You may not post replies
  • You may not post attachments
  • You may not edit your posts
  •