polaroid 110b to 4x5 conversion

[paapoopa]

Hi

I was hunting around for a polaroid 110b that is converted to 4x5,
and found quite a few people that worked on these.
there is the option8, razzledog, bryon, etc just to name a few.

would like to ask for your opinions, as to where you have got your polaroid 110b from and share your personal experience on the pros and cons of each different conversion from different people.

thanks

 

[Ezzie]

I considered doing the same, and looked at all the mentioned conversions, and then some (David Harms, Noah Schwartz, Patrick Putze). I ended converting to Polaroid 600SE type back for 3x4 pack film and 120 rollfilm interchangeable backs. Mainly because the better 4x5 solutions required more advanced tools than I had access to. In better I mean solutions enabling interchangeability of different type backs, roll film, sheet film, polaroid etc, and at the same time still being flush with the camera, and not sticking out under it, or obstructing the viewfinder etc. Only three solutions I've seen fill these criteria, Byron (very complex), Schwartz' low profile back (need CNC milling machine) and David Harms' solution (a very intricate solution of shaping of a host of aluminium profiles and bolting them together).

Should I reconsider and build one at a later date, then I would limit it to double darkslides and machining one of the holders to function as a ground glass insert. Those that have done conversions along these lines often have very simple yet attractive and functional solutions.

This one for instance: http://www.flickr.com/photos/mikeossur/4062181102/in/photostream or this one: http://www.flickr.com/photos/zokyo/5113902696/

And looking back in the RFF archives will yield these conversions:
http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=122074

http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=110354

http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=105839

 

[Jamie123]

Honestly, I'd think long and hard before paying a lot of money for a 4x5 converted 110b. For the price you pay for most of these you can get a Linhof Technika which can also be handheld if needed and it's much more versatile. You can also go even cheaper and get a Speed Graphic or something like that.

I converted a 110A to take packfilm (relatively easy to do) and while it's a nice camera I hardly ever use it. Before I started the conversion I thought I'd use it a lot but it's rather big and clunky so it stays at home most of the time.

 

[RFH]

I did my own from a $10 Polaroid 800. Also converted a 104 to have a lightweight 4x5. If you are patient and have access to basic metal tools, it's not too difficult. I was planning to swap the lens for a better one with a proper shutter. But after actually shooting with the built-in triplet of the 800, I've found it to be very, very sharp. Of course the lack of exposure control is pretty tame. The 110B has a good lens/shutter, so there should be no need to worry.

See this & this.

 

[Ezzie]

I obviously overlooked the fact that you are looking for a ready converted camera. I love my own DIY conversion, but buying one ready converted would not be an option I would consider. They are all way too expensive for what they are. I understand why the converters would want as much as they do, there is more than a bit of labour and manufacturing involved in many of the better ones, but it just isn't worth it.

 

[3rdtrick]

I have a 110 a/b packfilm conversion from Option8 and I am very pleased with it. Although it is not 4x5, I can vouch for Nate's work and he did an excellent job.
Pete

 

[shadowfox]

Not sure if the OP is still checking in, but it may be useful for others.
Polaroid conversion is a fun project.
Even an all-thumb guy such as myself had fun doing it.

*No sheeps were hurt in the making of the Polazoid45