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$0.00 Summary:I reciently acquired a B & J 4 x 5 press.
As for adjusting the Kalart rangefinders, the procedure on the Graflex.org site works quite well. With any camera of this vintage, the lens should be checked as to the focal lenget, as it may not be the origional one the rangefinder is adjusted to.
Following the kalart adjustment procedure, using a loupe to focus on the ground glass, check the focus scale, and adjust either the scale or the infinity stops to obtain agreement.
The next step is to focus at 15 feet, using ground glass and loupe. check the focus scale, if it is for the lens. check the two scales inside the kalart and check the Kalart adjustent procedure to set for the lens focal lenth.
The final step should be at 4 feet, if the camera has that capability. If not use the cameras minimum focus distance. Strengths:The kalart range finder is an tool. It is an aid for better focusing than just guessing, and faster than using the ground glass.
The Meridian 45, Busch Pressman, and Burke & James all have the advantage of the rotating back. All have drop beds, and allow more movements than a Graflex.
The Meridian also has the back movements of an Linhof or MPP. Weaknesses:The Kalart mirror deteriates with age, and the lenses discolor, get coated with film and nicotine.
The Burke & James has infinity stops that clamp to the rail. Graflex and Busch infinity stops fold down out of the way, and additional stops may be installed for different lenses. The Meridian 45 uses a slide with a notch for the lens selected. This may be disengaged, or may be modified for other length lenses. Similar Products Used:I have also used Speed Graflex, Busch Pressman, Meridian 45B, B & J Saturn 75 with both 4 x 5 and 5 x 7 backs, and B & J Tailboard 4 x 5 view cameras.
The B & J Watson was my first press camera in the mid 50's. However film packs vave become impossible to fine since then.
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