Baby Deardorf

[tim_kimbler]

After much research I Bought a baby Deardorf in good condition. It needs cleaning up. Any thoughts on refinisning the camera? I have a 90mm and 210mm lens. Any problem using those lens's? Is the lack of front swing a big problem? I mostly do landscape photos.

[sean_yates]

Rubbing a little mineral spirits on the finish will help take the

dirt off and brighten it up a bit. The bellows should be carefully

cleaned with Lexsol or Armor All on the outside and vacuumed gently

on the inside. Ken Hough of Vaslparaiso, IN can re-build and

refinish Deardorffs, his e-mail, etc. is on the Deardorff thread of

Tuan's page. He can also add front swing if you decide to spring for

the cost, but you can get along fine without it for most landscapes.

Believe it or not, the Deardorff was Hedrich Blessings camera of

choice until the early to mid 60's. The Baby has some collector

interest as well.

[sean_yates]

I mean you should apply the mineral spirits to the finish on the

wood. Make sure not to get any solvent on the bellows as it may

dissolve the glue holding them together. Also there is a product

called Never Dull or Nevr Dull or some such that does a great job on

polishing metals with a minimum of fuss. Also be sure to keep that

clear of the bellows.