Review 2 of 2
Price Paid:
$250.00
from Calumet Summary: This review is based on a 45N bought in 1991. The camera came with a revolving back (unlike the current model). The 45N is a solid, but basic studio performer. Its friction controls are smooth and reliable, but the lack of scales hampers repeatability. The camera''s simplicity lends itself to longevity, but works against convenience and precision.
Portability may be adequate, provided the user doesn''t mind removing the bellows and rotating the standards to parallel the rail. At best, the 45N lends itself to fieldwork supported by a car. It''s too bulky to be conveniently back- or bicycle packed, if much other gear needs to go along.
Ergonomically, focus and locking focus requires two hands. This means the photographer has to transfer the loupe used to check the ground glass from one hand to the other, while simultaneously trying to keep the dark cloth from becoming displaced. For people who wear glasses to see the entire ground glass, but use the loupe without glasses, this two-handed focus/lock requirement is a real annoyance, particularly when working in precarious places (like a roof) or in a breeze.
The solution to the two-handed ergonomic problem is the buy a monocular or binocular viewer, but this raises an economic question about Calumet/Cambo cameras generally. Their accessories cost almost as much as those from Arca-Swiss, Linhof, Sinar and Toyo when the latter are bought from Adorama, Badger Graphics, B&H and Robert White.
Given the recognition for sophistication and excellence in design accorded Arca and Sinar, one has to question whether buying the Calumet makes economic sense. The prestige brands all market entry-level cameras in the $1200-1300 range. On the other hand, Calumet and Cambo bought used are good buys.
Ultimately the decision of whether to enter the Calumet/Cambo system depends on the level of mechanical sophistication foreseeably necessary. If the studio is going to be the camera''s major home, the 45N may make sense, provided higher level Cambos will meet one''s future needs. Calumet does provide excellent support for both lines. However, the 45N never appealed to me, even when compared to extremes like a crude first generation Pocket Gowland and a bulkier, more fragile Tachihara 8x10. Strengths: (1) Low price, especially used.
(2) Solidity for its price range.
(3) Accessories availability.
(4) Reliable dealer. Weaknesses: (1) Basic and easily outgrown.
(2) Questionable quality control. Mine came with a spirit level that dried up immediately. (Replacements are $30.) The fresnel lens I ordered with it had been cut too small to fit.
(3) Stiff competion from entry-level cameras from Arca-Swiss, Linhof, and Sinar.
(4) Accessories are expensive. Similar Products Used: Regularly used Crown Graphic 4x5, Linhof Technika IV, Pocket Gowland 4x5, Tachihara 8x10. Customer Service: Not used.
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