Zone VI 8x10 vs others

I am being seduced by Calumet's ad for the Zone VI 8x10 camera. I have a Zone VI 4x5 and think it's a beatiful instrument; but I never researched their competitors. The 8x10 is not for day-to-day use. So, I'd appreciate any thoughts about the relative merits of Zone VI's 8x10. Thanks

Steven Brooke

I own a Zone VI 8x10 and have had no problems with it what-so-ever.

The only bad point is that I should have waited 8 months to purchase

it, as it would have been $300 cheaper thanks to the sale Calumet is

advertising! It really is a nice camera, both in looks and function.

I researched 8x10's for several months before I made the purchase, and

found that the only other possibility could have been a Wisner.

(Which would have been about $200 more expensive.) I decided to go

with the Zone VI as I have used their products for a number of years

and have been quite satisfied. I discovered that Ron Wisner designed

the original Zone VI field camera, which is the predecessor to the

current model. It is built well, and has very generous movements for

a field camera. (Compare the movements to something like Calumet's

own 8x10 camera, and you'll notice a huge difference in

specifications!) The only problem I encountered directly "out of the

box" was a slightly (and I mean slightly) bent focusing knob.

Everything else was just fine. People will probably tend to recommend

either Wisner or Canham over Zone VI, but I think it's because those

companies tend to revolve around one person, and it's possible to get

more personal attention from the "makers" of the camera. With the

sale that Calumet has going on, I'd say go for it. Zone VI is a great

company with a good reputation, so you know there will be support if

needed. I am curious, though, to know why Calumet is calling it a

"close out" sale. I'd be tempted to ask them if they are going to

continue the cameras, and if not, will they atleast still have the

accesories (lensboards, ground glass, etc.)? Good luck.

While I would not criticize the Zone VI, I WOULD counsel you to

seriously consider purchasing a camera SECOND HAND for the additional

savings!

<p>

While a sale is a sale, buying new is still buying new and the camera

depreceates almost as fast as the new car when you drive if off the

lot. A friend recently purchased a dream outfit on e-bay for $1600.

(+/-) Ex++ 8 X 10 Kodak Master Camera (metal not wood) with case, 2

lens boards, 4 X 5 reduction back, 2 holders, universal iris clamp

and a 300mm 6.8 Gold Rim Dagor! THE DEALS ARE OUT THERE!!!

I agree completely with Sean. I have seen several mint used Zone VI

and Wisner cameras for sale recently at significantly reduced prices.

Many think that 8 x 10 is for them only to find that form does always

follow function. Say what you want about a warranty with a new

camera, but I do not feel it is worth the incremental cost.

While buying used has a lot of advantages, there is nothing quite

like having your own brand new piece of gear, whether a car or

camera. No wondering why the person you got it from "really" dumped

it. Calumet is first class business and provides excellent service

and has knowledgeable people who can help if you have any problems.

Best of luck on the camera.

Hmmm. Wood vs metal. I have used a Toyo View 8x10 since a987 and

have been delighted with it. It is heavy, but the movements,

durability and features have never dissappointed me. I believe Fred

Picker made some wonderful gear but his primary strength is

marketing. One point to look at on the Zone Vi is the front

movements. If one wants to lower the lensboard, one loses the tilt.

I like movements that are independant and I do not have to fiddle

with.