Makiflex
The Makiflex is a 9x9 cm, interchangeable lens SLR camera made by Plaubel in 1961.[1][2] Zeiss lenses are available as well as Schneider Xenar lenses in 150mm, 210mm and 360mm. Originally it was said that a 150mm lens (63mm equivalent in 35mm) was the shortest lens possible with infinity focus.[3] Later it has been shown that shorter remounted lenses from the Fuji GX680 can be used with recessed lensboards, at least down to 100mm (43mm equivalent in 35mm)[4]. It has a focal-plane shutter with speeds 4 - 1/500 second, plus 'B', with flash synch at 1/15 second. The low-cost Makiflex Standard edition is limited to shutter speeds from 1/8 - 1/125 second, plus 'B', with flash synch at 1/10 second.[3] It has rack-and-pinion bellows focusing. It uses a rotating back plate that can mount backs for roll film, sheet film and instant film. Standard american double cut-film holders are supported by the MX 1/538 adapter, producing a smaller image on standard 4x5 film. Waist-level and eye-level finders are available.
A simplified model, the Makiflex Standard was made a few years later; this model has fewer shutter speeds, and does not stop down the lens automatically.[5]
Makiflex with Schneider Xenar lens image by eBayer itemsmoreitems2016 (Image rights) |
Makiflex with Custom Adapters image by Matt Abelson (Image rights) |
Notes
- ↑ Makiflex with 18 cm f/4.5 CZJ Tessar, sold at Christie's in London in September 1999.
- ↑ Makiflex serial no. 303 SM (or perhaps a Makiflex Standard; this example seems to lack one of the dial controls of the camera at Christie's), with lenses on standard and extended lens-plates, offered for sale at the fifth Westlicht Photographica Auction, on 29 May 2004.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 Photo Methods for Industry, Volume 13 (1970), p. 36
- ↑ Plaubel Makiflex Standard in Photrio Forum
- ↑ McKeown, James M. and Joan C. McKeown's Price Guide to Antique and Classic Cameras, 12th Edition, 2005-2006. USA, Centennial Photo Service, 2004. ISBN 0-931838-40-1 (hardcover). ISBN 0-931838-41-X (softcover)., p787.