Topic: Kodak Aero Ektar.

[charles binns]

I have a quick question.  I have just come across a 178mm Kodak Aero Ektar f2.8 in a Speed Graphic Mount.

My question is, will it fit my Crown Graphic?  If so I'll buy it.

[Bryan]

According to S.K. Grimes they take the same lens board.  The one he has pictured is the same as the one I use on my Crown Graphic.  Even if it's wrong lens boards can be had for pretty cheap if you need to re-mount it. 

http://www.skgrimes.com/products/lens-boards/graphic

[Sandeha Lynch]

That's right, assuming you have the 4x5 Crown and not one of the smaller ones.

[Francois]

Just keep in mind that the speed graphic has a focal plane shutter and not the crown.
This means that you'll need to fit some sort of shutter on the lens (aero ektars are barrel mounted).
But apart from that, they use the same lensboard.

[charles binns]

Just keep in mind that the speed graphic has a focal plane shutter and not the crown.
This means that you'll need to fit some sort of shutter on the lens (aero ektars are barrel mounted).
But apart from that, they use the same lensboard.

Francois, thank you. Unfortunately my internet investigations came to the same conclusion.  I don't think it would be possible to fit a focal plane shutter onto the Crown Graphic  so I'll pass on the Aero Ektar as it would cost me a pretty penny.

In any case I am about to invest in buying all the kit needed to print Kallitypes so will save my pocket money for that.

[Francois]

I know its sad for the aero ektar, but on the other hand, I can hardly imagine that there isn't another lens out there that would give equally beautiful results at a much lower cost...

[charles binns]

I know its sad for the aero ektar, but on the other hand, I can hardly imagine that there isn't another lens out there that would give equally beautiful results at a much lower cost...

I'm tempted just to buy it and worry about finding a camera for it later but I need to buy a UV exposure unit etc,etc.  I'll sleep on it.

[Bryan]

You could use a Packard Shutter on the back of the lens board.  I mounted one on a wood lens board for an old Rodenstock barrel lens.  They can be found on eBay or you can buy a new one from the web site below.  The web site gives the sizes, it will need to be a small one to fit on the back of that lens board.  I have a Number 6 with a 1 1/2" opening.  You will be limited to 1/25 or timed shutter speeds with them. 

http://www.packardshutter.com/

[Chalky]

Charles, buy it and sell it to me :-)

One of the reasons I swopped crown to speed graphic.

I have a pentac 8" but its a bit if a beater so still looking for something nicer.

Hope crown graphic treating you well.

[charles binns]

Charles, buy it and sell it to me :-)

One of the reasons I swopped crown to speed graphic.

I have a pentac 8" but its a bit if a beater so still looking for something nicer.

Hope crown graphic treating you well.

Chalky.  Here's the link, let me know if you decide to go for it.  http://www.wetplatesupplies.com/cameras-and-spares/lenses/kodak-aero-ektar-178mm-f2-5-lens-in-speed-graphic-mount.html

I've taken the Crown Graphic out for a few spins and love it.  Except for the fact it can't take an Aero Ektar lens 

[Aksel]

Just get it! You can always re-sell it if you can´t source a proper speed with the in body shutter at a reasonable price 
That or keep an eye out for the Dallmeyer Pentac, 8" or 10" F/2.9 which is just as good as the Aero at a more reasonable price and mind you, with no radiation. I don´t like the thought of 8h hikes with something radioactive two inches from my spine.

[Chalky]

Thanks Charles

It comes with the JoLo mount which is great but still puts the lens at £300+ which is way more than they go for on ebay... I know there are other risks involved there tho :-)

Thanks though, glad you like the crown! look forward to seeing a pic from it. Still have the 120 back for it to sell if you or anyone else are interested?

Cheers