Linhof Master Technika Classic compatible with older back from a Tech IV?

[pigtango]

Hi All,

I recently picked up a Master Technical classic (early 70's era) from a local shop that appears to be in really good shape other than needing a CLA. However, after doing a little inquiring, I've come to learn that the removable back, gg, and viewing hood is off of a Technika IV. Are these two compatible or am i going to get focusing errors from using the older back/gg on the MT? I still have a window of opportunity to return the camera if it's going to be a problem.

any help would be appreciated!

[Vaughan]

All Technika IV, V and later are basically exactly the same camera. Technika III and earlier are different. Technika IV was the big re-design that included new lens boards.

[MartyNL]

I have a strong feeling that the Linhof IV, V and MT are interchangeable, so I wouldn't expect any issues.

If it's in great condition and you got it for a good price, then it could be worth your while getting the camera serviced and if you wish in the future replace the older parts.

[Oren Grad]

Are these two compatible or am i going to get focusing errors from using the older back/gg on the MT?

The only conceivable issue would be if you are going to be using the rangefinder; if I'm recalling Bob Salomon correctly, the IV required camera-specific cams, indicating that the focus register was not entirely standardized, while the MT back is standardized, allowing lenses with matching cams to be used on different bodies. But if you'll be using the ground glass for focusing, the only alignment that matters is entirely within the back - agreement between the ground glass position and the film surface within the holder.

[pigtango]

That's the decision point I'm at right now, to keep it and get the camera serviced or to send it back because the back is different and going to cause issues with focus. I would like to use the rangefinder if possible. That's one of the main reasons I bought it. I plan to get a cam cut for a lens that I have for it when I send it in for service; again assuming that the back and the camera would play well together.

[Embdude]

The Master Technika uses the same back attachment ring as the very first 4x5 Technika III of 1946. As such all backs made for the III and IV, V, MT are interchangeable. As Oren pointed out the III & IV backs could be shimmed individually so each back had to be checked with the rangefinder where the V & MT backs were standardized to allow a cammed lens to be interchangeable between cameras without need to check against the body/back.

If your camera has a IV back it is possible it is already set for use with cammed lenses, or perhaps it was added as an after thought and in that case it would need to be checked to be sure it was accurate for any pre cammed lenses. If you are going to have your own cams made for added lenses or are not using the rangefinder to focus then it won't matter.

The 4x5 Technika & Technika II (1934-1946) used a different slightly smaller size attachment ring and it lacked the sliding latches used for interchangeability, thus the backs were basically permanent to each camera.

The III backs came in many styles and variations from 1946-1956, and the IV, V, MT backs that followed are relatively similar in design. There have been incremental changes over time as well as with the release of subsequent models. Mostly cosmetic but a few added function. If you can post a photo of your back I can likely date it for you in relation to the camera.

[pigtango]

That would be great. I appreciate it! Here are a few photos of the back.

[Embdude]

That would be great. I appreciate it! Here are a few photos of the back.

This is actually a 1970's Master Technika back, a Master Technika GG frame w spring clips, and a V or possibly late IV removable viewing hood.

The very first Master Technika batches had silver spring clips (just like a V) but were soon painted black like yours are.
The little silver pushbutton to lock rotation shows up late in V production and was not present on the IV.
By the 1980's the spring latches were re-styled to have a more flat angular profile rather than the curve.
The light grey hood cover shows up midway through IV production and all throughout V production. It was dark gunmetal grey from the beginning of the Master Technika production in October 1972.

So it is only the detachable pop up hood part that is not original to your camera. It won't affect anything function wise...

[pigtango]

That's great to hear! thanks so much for this information, much appreciated!