Beseler 23C Help

[Steve_Pfost]

I recently picked up a Beseler 23C in really nice shape. I am not too familiar with this enlarger but recently wanted to get back into printing and stumbled upon this. Upon getting it home and wanting to buy a bulb for it, I realized it must be one of the early models using a ph111A bulb. After a short google search I discovered this bulb is not manufactured anymore. A real bummer. Has anyone had trouble finding these bulbs? My thinking is that if it's been discontinued eventually they will run out.

I'm sure I'm not the only one ever trying to find ph111A bulbs, apparently they are also used on Omega B enlargers which also seem to be popular.

 

[Horatio]

1000bulbs.com is showing in stock. Average life is 15 hours. I’d buy several.

 

[Beemermark]

1000bulbs.com is showing in stock. Average life is 15 hours. I’d buy several.

I find it hard to believe the average life is only 15 hours. I had both the 23CII & 45MX and don't ever recall a bulb burning out even after decades of use. Did a quick search and found half a dozen stocking dealers, including BHPhotoVideo.

 

[Steve_Pfost]

When I searched b & h, it says it’s discontinued. I have, since posting this, found a few sites that have the bulb.

 

[nikon_sam]

I have two Beselers and a Vivitar VI enlarger all three use different bulbs and I make sure I have plenty on hand just in case.
The two with color heads use quartz bulbs and I make sure I'm careful not to bump the enlarger if the light has been on for some time as the bulbs are very hot and at-risk...