Old Wista 45 metal field camera - anything to look out for?

[tor_kviljo1]

By chance (and because it came with two interesting Fujinon-W-lenses)

I have aquired a older Wista 45 metal-field camera. Exteriors it

looks like the Wista marked Wista 45 ",r,o," at wista's web page

http://www.wista.co.jp/e_wista/e_show/e_camera/e_camera.htm However,

this camera (being fairly old) is finished in yellow hammer-lacquer

finish with imitated wood-inlet in outer body & details, satin finish

on front standard. Only WISTA 45 on front as model-identification.

Anybody out there know if there have been any other version of the

Wista 45 than the three recent versions and can give a clue on what I

have got? General thoughts on the camera as a user is also

appreciated!

[charles_zabilski]

I have one I purchased in the late 70's. It is a good sturdy camera but lacks some of the movements of the Linhof Technika series. I believe it was referred to as a Wista 45. Unless you need (or want a Linhof) which I have recently acquired, it should work fine.

 

One thing to watch for is the front standard has a slim metal part which protrudes from the right front lens standard (as viewed from front). This sharp protrusion acts as a friction lock for the tilt adjustment but it can punch a pinhole in the bellows, unless you grind it down, as I did.

 

Its a good solid camera.