Help with Noblex prices

[gdi]

I am considering a Noblex - probably a 150 (120 model) but may consider a 135. (I will be scanning the negs and the 150 will require two passes and stitching on my CS 9000, so that is why I am not ready to rule out the 135.)

Could someone help me with ballpark selling prices for a really nice condition 150 that is fully functional? Ebay prices are all over the place and the condition of some cameras looks pretty suspect. I have found an extremely nice original model 150, that the owner wants $950 for - is that out of line or reasonable? Are the later model features, like panalux capabilities, shift, and zone focusing really worth waiting for? I figure I can always use multiple exposures to get the slow shutter speeds of the later UX models, and doubt I will ever spring for the several hundred dollar Panalux.

I have talked with Bob Watkins and he said there is no reason to worry about the model when it comes to serviceability or parts, just choose based on condition and features.

Thanks

 

[gdi]

Any advice on pricing is appreciated!

 

[Matthew Runkel]

This seems like a reasonable price. I paid close to double that in 2008 for a used Noblex Pro 6 / 150 U with slow-speed module, but I think prices have dropped since then. My camera needed repair for banding, and I'm told that a camera that has been sitting usused for a long time is likely to have an indentation in the rubber drive wheel, causing banding. It sounds like the repair picture may have improved since I had my issue, with Precision Camera Works now providing service in addition to Siggi Rohde at Noblex Canada, whom I used.

The slow-speed module is nice to have. The alternative of stringing together multiple short exposures could be laborious in some cases, and also note that it always sounds to me like there is a bit of vibration generated by the drum at the end of a short exposure. If so, you would be multiplying that vibration.

The focusing options don't seem super important--maybe nice to have, but you'll likely mostly use infinity. I've never wished for shift or the Panalux. You just have to embrace the camera's inherent limitations.

 

[gdi]

Thanks Matthew!

I guess it is a fair deal as long as everything works properly. I have seen some go for several hundred less on ebay, but they look like they have had a lot of use. I think the added features would be nice, but not critical.

Another question- do you find your camera reasonbly easy to handhold?

 

[Matthew Runkel]

Yes, it is handholdable and the results are quite good. I believe Macduff Everton has done much of his landscape work handheld using a natural-contrast 400-speed print film.

The "handles" are actually guides so you know your hands will not be in the shot. Hands must be under the handles.

Enjoy!

 

[Texsport]

I think $1,000 is about the lowest price you'll see.

Note that there are different versions of the 150, as some improvements were made over time.

There are even a few custom models, with different shutter speeds, available from the original inventor.

Lovely camera!

Best reference/instructional information is Arnaud Frich's, "Panoramic Photography".

He specializes in the use of swing lens cameras, and particularly the Noblex 150. He even stitches Noble captures to create stunning full city panoramics of Paris in the book!

Also. http://arnaudfrichphoto.com/


Texsport

 

[gdi]

I think $1,000 is about the lowest price you'll see.

Note that there are different versions of the 150, as some improvements were made over time.

There are even a few custom models, with different shutter speeds, available from the original inventor.

Lovely camera!

Best reference/instructional information is Arnaud Frich's, "Panoramic Photography".

He specializes in the use of swing lens cameras, and particularly the Noblex 150. He even stitches Noble captures to create stunning full city panoramics of Paris in the book!

Also. http://arnaudfrichphoto.com/


Texsport

Thanks Texsport.

I pulled the trigger at less than a grand - it is an early one but looks to be mint and is one owner. So no extra speeds and shift - but at least it has what I hear is the better Tessar lens.

Hopefully I'll be able to post some shots in a week or so....