Greetings!
I recently acquired a 16" Wollensak Vitax with a Studio Shutter. Everything is in good condition except for the shutter, which is sticky and slow and won't even close all the way when the switch is on CLOSED. I haven't even tried firing the shutter with a release since it clearly won't work properly without a CLA.
I brought it by Camera Techs, about the last place in Seattle that works on LF shutters, but they've never worked on a Studio Shutter before, so they didn't want to touch it. I spoke with Carol at Flutot's in CA, and she said that she's pretty confident she can fix it. She charges $100 plus shipping, etc. for a CLA.
My question: Do any of you fellows use this shutter? I know several of you have a Vitax, but I'm wondering if most of you use alternative shutters and just use your Studio Shutters as diaphragms. If you do use this shutter, I would really appreciate it if you could reply with your impressions. What is the fastest speed you think you are able to get on a typical exposure? Does the shutter seem reliable?
I could have Reno Farinelli build a Packard Shutter for me, but it would have to be a 4.5 inch No. 6, which would total almost $600. The advantage of that would be a steady 1/30 exposure, versus the Studio Shutter, which is Bulb only. Of course, I could scour the used market for some other shutter that would work with a lens that has a diameter of over 4 inches, but I'm sick of shopping. I just want to make photographs.
For now, I'll probably go with the CLA from Flutot's, then try out the Studio Shutter. If it doesn't seem satisfactory, then I'll order a Packard Shutter in the Spring. But if any of you fellows have any input that might be helpful, I'd be glad to hear it, as ever.
Kind regards,
Cameron Cornell
Bookmarks