Adjusting a Graphic RF for an 80mm lens

[Dez]

I just bought a very nice and recent Crown Graphic. The really interesting thing about it was that it was a 2 1/4 x 3 1/4, fitted with a Graflok back 😀.

Even more interesting though was the fact that someone had fitted it with a very recent Tessar 80mm f2.8 lens in a Copal 0 shutter. I have not put film through it yet, but the lens appears to cover the format well! The lens looks like it is brand new.

I had made the assumption that the Kalart RF had NOT been adjusted for this short lens, and I was sadly correct. I have the Kalart adjustment manual, but it does not provide settings for such a short lens. Does anyone have any experience in using such a lens on a 2 1/4 x 3 1/4 Graphic, and know the right settings for the Kalart RF dials.

Cheers,

Dez

 

[Dez]

😀😀😀😀😀😀

Sometimes you get lucky! It turns out that the major problem was that the front standard stops were in the wrong position. Once I fixed that, and reset the infinity position, there was no error at the 15-25' position, and a minor adjustment in the 4-8' range. So it turns out that an 80mm f2.8 lens is practical on an old Graphic after all.

The adjustment manual is easy to follow.
http://graflex.org/speed-graphic/kalart-manual.html

Cheers,
Dez