P3D Re: Realist Macro (and a trip to the camera show)

[Brian Reynolds <reynolds@xxxxxxxxx>]

Bill Shu wrote:
>
> I am interested in a Realist Macro Stereo camera, could somebody tell me
> where can I acquire one?  I was told there were only 1000 copies
> manufactured, is that true?  
> 

I saw one this weekend at the New York City Camera Show.  It was
pretty scuffed up (at these prices there should be no marks on the
camera) and the guy wanted $6000 for it.  From talking to him about
View-Master cameras and cutters it was pretty obvious that his
intended market is collectors (he didn't think to bring any
View-Master cutters, only cameras), and he wasn't really going to
negotiate price (which was too high).  If you really want it, I can
look up his contact information.

I also saw a very nice McBean (memories a bit fuzzy, made in
Edinburgh) stereo plate camera at another booth.  $1700, but it looked
like it was in good enough condition to be worth it.  Unfortunately it
was above my budget for the show.

I turned down a gorgeous Conelley wooden 5x7 camera for only $175.
5x7 film is too tough to get, it didn't have a 4x5 reducing back, and
I can only use so many cameras.  (Can you tell I'm still trying to
talk myself out of calling them up and buying the camera anyway?  :)

I finally bought a very nice Graflex Speed Graphic for $400 complete
with 135mm Optar mounted on a board with the solenoid a couple of film
holders and instructions.

Now I'm making myself a few pinholes and lensboards to play with
instant anaglyphs.

-- 
Brian Reynolds                  | "Humans explore the Universe with five
reynolds@xxxxxxxxx              |   senses and call the adventure science."
http://www.panix.com/~reynolds/ | - Edwin P. Hubble


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