Zone VI 5x7 Enlarger

[Richard Fish]

Anyone have anything to say about the Zone VI 5x7 enlarger? There's one up for b id on EBay auctions, with the variable contrast coldlight.

[Bob Eskridge]

I have heard that the head has had problems. I would check that out before purchase.

[Blake]

I don't own one but I know it can be outfitted with a 8x10 head and that is reason enough to consider purchasing it at a reasonable price. Dick have you looked at their websight? They have tons of accessories, I haven't been there in while so i don't have the address but try a search. It's not tank-like in appearance like the durst but I'm sure if the column can support a 8x head it probably drives like one.

[Adam D. DeKraker]

As far as I can tell, they are built fine. I own a Zone VI 8x10 cold light that is wonderful to work with...now I just need to buy the darn chassis!

P.S. If you can, make sure you get the variable contrast model.

[Tyler Boley]

I have one of these, a type 2, that was purchased new in 1999, used once period. It has the variable contrast head, 3 different neg carriers, essentially new condition.
Can anyone tell me how I might place a value on it? I want to just sell it locally, can not pack and ship, and would prefer to avoid the auction fiascos.
Would love to just set a reasonable price on it and let it go.
These days, that's difficult to determine, so any input would be helpful.
Thanks,
Tyler
http://tylerboley.com/

[Ed Pierce]

Tyler - I think much depends on your location if you want to sell local. For example, here in Vermont, I'd probably be lucky to get a few hundred for it. In a big city you will do better of course.

Online they are going for about $800 plus $100 for shipping/packing.

I recently sold one which I had professionally packed. All I had to do was take it apart and bring it to my local shipping store; no big deal.

Consider selling the parts individually also.

[resummerfield]

Tyler - I think much depends on your location if you want to sell local. For example, here in Vermont, I'd probably be lucky to get a few hundred for it. In a big city you will do better of course.

Online they are going for about $800 plus $100 for shipping/packing.

I recently sold one which I had professionally packed. All I had to do was take it apart and bring it to my local shipping store; no big deal.......

I also use a type 2 with the VC head, and it works well for 4x5. I think the best way to sell is online--Ebay--and sell it as a unit. With a good description and lots of clear pictures, I think Ed Pierce's price estimate is pretty accurate. A local shipping store will do all the hard work, and the buyer will pay the shipping costs.

[Chuck Pere]

Never used one but I'll put in some general comments. Make sure you understand the difference between the type 1 and 2. Make sure the head you get has the latest mods. Make sure it comes with the carriers you need or you know how to get them.

[Arthur Nichols]

I had one with the VC head and didn't like it. It had problems with the balance between the blue and green, too much blue (too high contrast). It took a long time for Calumet to make it right. I now use DeVere Dichro heads on 8x10 and 5x7 enlargers. I like them much more. There are no mixing boxes for the Zone IV so this enlarger should be considered primarily for large format negatives. I had the type I and I have heard that the type II is better.

[photographs42]

I have and use a Zone VI type 2 with the longer column. I have had it for several years and love it. It is rock solid. Mine is wall mounted and anchored at the top. I bought the head first and adapted my Beseler 45M to it. That worked pretty well but there were a few drawbacks. It took me a while to get the hang of the variable contrast adjustments but once you have that figured out it works really well.

I use mine for 4x5 and 5x7. In my opinion, it’s a first class unit, but I know others don’t like them.
Jerome