Focomat IC 35mm enlarger

[mjtt94@mac.com]

Hi all,

I've inherited a Focomat IC 35mm enlarger with a EL-Nikkor 50mm f2.8 lens. It's in surprisingly good shape, with little or no wear externally, no scratches/mold on the lens or condensers. It has anti-newton glass, negative carrier, filter drawer, Leitz wood baseboard (22 X 25") and a 48" chrome post. The autofocus mechanism works smoothly. The only thing not original is the wiring, which has been updated. This is the black, orange-peel version, with red dots on the arms and base. I'm not at all knowledgeable about enlargers, apart from one darkroom class at college. Could I ask for more information? I don't plan to use it but it's a wonderful piece of German engineering. Is there a market for this enlarger? Thanks in advance for any help.

 

[dap]

There is a market for the 1C enlargers. They don't seem to be as popular as the later V35 enlargers or the bigger focomat IIc enlargers but they have held their value more than most brands/models. The black models tend to sell in the $100-$400 range based on condition and options (enlargers in outstanding condition could fetch more). If you sell it make sure that you advertise the fact that it has the anti-newton glass filter for the condenser (those sell for about $100 on their own) - it should help you get a better price. It also sounds like you have a "color" model with an extra long column - both of which are desirable options.

 

[Fawley]

I have a 1C which I absolutely love useing. My only complaint about it is that I can't do medium format and 4x5 in it! For that I have to use an Omega D2V, no slouch as an enlarger, but not nearly as nice to use as the 1C. If your prospective buyers have never used a 1C before, make sure you emphasis what a pleasure they are to use. The auto focus is a great feature, and the fine focus is hair splitting accurate.