Are you opening the ruby window switch
Are you opening the ruby window switch
The Bessa 1 has the ability to shoot 6X4.5 or 6X9. So, it has two windows in the camera back for the film number on the backing paper. If you have the special film gate that reduces the opening to 645, you pull up the numbers twice... first in the first window and shoot, then roll to the second window and shoot. If you do not have that removable gate, you can only shoot 6X9, so you only use one of the ruby windows.
Getting to your problem... if you are loading the film right... with the backing to the pressure plate, you still have to open a revolving panel which is the round knurled button between the two ruby windows on the back of the camera. You put your fingertip on the knurled surface and twist to open the window. Closing the ruby window covers between wind-ons is important to reduce the instance of light leaks ruining film if the covers are left open and film is in the camera during storage.
If you do not have the reduction gate in the camera, only one of the ruby windows will be opened (a sliding plate inside the back to cover the windows). If you DO have the removable reduction gate, there is a tab on the gate that activates a special second panel inside the back cover, allowing the viewing of frame numbers in both windows, first in one and then to the second ruby window for the smaller format.
It's actually quite ingenious and was present on the BESSA RF in the late 30's, the BESSA 1, and many other BESSA folders. There was no dual format option however on the BESSA II.
I have a couple of these and have been fortunate to find a couple of the dual format removable gates. Most of them have been separated from the cameras and lost. I looked long and hard to find the gate in one BESSA RF and one of the other BESSA folders.
If this is unclear. PM me and I will get back to you.
