Galvin 2 1/4" x 3 1/4" View Camera

[francisco_diaz]

Fellow friends, I'm considering purchasing a Galvin view camera.

 

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Would any of you kindly share any general impressions you have of this camera or, more specifically, care to comment on any or all of the following:

 

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(1) Is there any sort of reflex viewer or hood that would fit this camera and allow me to view an upright image? (I believe Horseman makes one for its 6 x 9 cameras, but I don't know whether it will fit the Galvin. I figure that if their roll film backs fit the Galvin, then why not the hood?)

 

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(2) Given that there is no bag bellows for this camera (and I'm not the tinkering sort), what is the shortest focal length that I could use without restricting the movements; i.e., could I use a Schneider 47mm Super Angulon without any problem? or should I opt for a 65mm instead?

 

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(3) I hear that the ground glass is not very bright for viewing. Are there any fresnel lenses or Beattie-like accessories that would fit this camera?

 

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(4) How does this camera compare to the Gowland 2 x 3 cameras?

 

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Thanks for any help.

[john_hicks]

Jim Galvin used to supply recessed lensboards for that camera; perhaps you could find one via Shutterbug or ebay.

Going on memory here, I don't think you'll be able to use the 47 with a flat board.

[howard_slavitt1]

1. As for focusing screens, you should call

Bill Maxwell of Maxwell Precision Optics at

(404) 244-0095. I spent about 4 months

researching the best product for my

Horseman VH (6 x 9) camera, and I

concluded Bill makes it. He custom fits all his

screens; they're reasonably priced

considering how beautiful they are.

 

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2. If the Horseman 6 x 9 backs fit the Galvin

then, yes, so should the Monoreflex viewer.

 

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3. To answer what is the shortest lens, you

will need to know what is the minimium

extension.

[dave_sherman]

I do not think that it can be assume that the monoflex viewer can be used on the Galvin. I an not sure of the design of the monoflex but I would be surprised it it would fit because of the way that the Galvin ground glass assembly swings back.