P3D Re: Which Realist is it?

[fj834@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx (Dr. George A. Themelis)]

>After browsing the trade fair in Richmond and talking with various 
>sellers, I've got a question or two. 

Did you forget to talk to me?  I would have answered your questions
in person :-) (Or was I too busy?)

>How many models were commercially available (mass market)

- Realist 1041 (3.5 lenses)
   - Ilex Paragon (earlier) or David White lenses
- Realist 1042 (2.8 lenses)
   - Ektar (earlier) or David White lenses
- Realist Custom (similar to the two above but with different
  lenses and unique features)
- Realist Macro (same body-no rangefinder/focusing) different lens plate
- Realist 45 (very different than the above- made in Germany for DW)

>What lenses were available when, which ones are better, best, worst?

Depends who you ask. :-)

>What features were available when?

Very little has changed in the basic design of the 1040/1041.  Around
1954 the double exposure prevention and DEF scale was added.  There are
other minor differences too.

I am working on a BOOK on the Stereo Realist CAMERA and introduction to
stereo photography.  Expanding on the above, plus lots of good info
on using the camera TODAY, adjusting rangefinder/focusing and much
more.  With some luck I will have it ready at NSA '99 (Green Bay, WI).

-- George Themelis


------------------------------