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Bronica C section

Bronica C and C2

The Bronica C was introduced in 1964-5 while the "S" was still being produced, and is the only model made by Bronica without interchangeable backs. Intended as an economy version of the "S" it incorporated several features of the "D" and the new focusing mount soon to appear on the S2.

Bronica C

Identifying features are:

1. Does not have interchangeable backs
2. Shutter speeds to 1/500 or 1/1000 second (see note below)
3. Double exposure control on dial on right side near frame counter setting switch
4. Removable focusing unit with distance scales for 50, 75, 135 and 200mm lenses.

Inserts for the S2/S2A will fit the "C" as will all lenses, hoods, prisms and grips. The original extension tubes and bellows were replaced with new ones to fit the changed focusing system. A special adapter allowed the use of the original S type bellows on the C and later models.

NOTE: Bronica "C" Models sold in the Japan Domestic Market had a top speed of 1/500 second. Export models had a 1/1000 second top speed. There is no other difference in the cameras and both may be available on the used market.

Except special black finish, other features of Bronica C Black are substantially the same as those of the Model C BL.

Bronica C (helical mount)

Zenza Bronica Model C

This camera has the efficiency of the S type, and is mechanically improved. The shutter sound and mirror shock are reduced as the result of experience with the S type, and constant research over a long period.

Type - 2 1/4 x 2 1/4 (6cm x 6cm) Single lens reflex camera
Film - 120 roll film, 12 exposures and 220 roll film, 24 exposures
Standard lens - Nikkor 75mm f2.8 fully automatic preset diaphragm, 4 group 5 element
Lens mount - Bayonet type (Bronica mount), also equipped with screw mount (57mm x 1 mm pitch). Large bayonet mount for long telephoto lenses
Finder - Fresnel lens and large magnifier
Viewfinder hood - interchangeable with pentaprism finder or magnifying hood
Focusing - Helicoid type, stroke 14mm, rotating angle of focusing ring 250 degrees
Distance Scale - for 75mm, 50mm, 135mm, and 200mm lenses
Mirror - slip down, instant return, automatic mirror system
Diaphragm - Fully automatic diaphragm - 75mm, 0mm, 135mm, 200mm and 400mm lenses
Depth-of-Field - Depth-of-field can be checked by pressing preview button
Shutter - Vertically operating focal plane shutter, non-rotating single shutter dial, B, 1, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, 1/15, 1/30, 1/60, 1/125, 1/500, 1/1000 and 'X' (1/40). Shutter release lock device, intermediate shutter speeds
Synchro - Automatic switchover synchronization system
Film loading - Separate film holder, automatic film winding system by matching with film start mark
Film winding - winding crank or knob.
Multiple exposure - by turning multiple exposure knob
Film counter - Automatically returns to '0'
Camera body - made of 18-8 stainless steel, bright polished finish
Dimensions - 100mm x 100mm x 140mm

Would you buy a Bronica if it didn't have interchangeable magazines? Perhaps you would if the price were right, and the new model had featuares that made you sit up and take notice. Well, the Bronica C doesn't have interchangeable magazines, but it does reload very quickly via removable film inserts. Extra inserts are sold as accessories, and you can carry as many of these as you like, preloade and ready to go.

And what's more, you're not tied to 120 film and 12 exposures. By changing a selector lever at the side of the camera, you can switch to 24 exposure 220 rolls. The same inserts that you use for 120 will also take 220 film.

And the price, $80 less than the Model S, makes it an attractive buy, placing it in the medium price 2 1/4 SLR range. Since the C takes the lenses from the S, and since it can be bought without a lens at only $264.50, here is a chance for studios and large scale users of the 2 1/4 SLRs to acquire a number of extra bodies relatively inexpensively. Now let's go on to some other interesting features of this camera.

There is a choice of four lenses (interchangeable with the model S) automatic film and shutter crank, helical focusing with a large, easy to grip scalloped ring, interchangeable viewing hoods, depth-of-field scales for 50, 75, 135, and 200mm lenses and depth-of-field previewing. Most Bronica S accessores may be used with the new camera, and the entire helical focusing assembly may be removed to facilitate adaptation for use with special equipment or lenses.

Speeds on the focal-plane shutter range from 1 to 1/500 sec plus bulb, selected by a convenient knob on the left side of the cmera. It has FP, M, and X synch, with a PC flashpost located near the shutter speed selector. And it's simple to make multiple exposures on one frame with this new camera, something you'll appreciate if you're of a creative bent. To make multiple exposures with the Bronica C, you press a selector just above the exposure counter. This disconnects the film transport from the shutter wind, allowing you to make as many exposures on one frame as you desire.

It's an easy camera to use, with operating controls conveniently located for fast operation. The film-shutter mechanism takes a couple of turns to operate, but it has a rapid wind crank that folds out of the way when not in use. Both the mirror and aperture return to their focusing positions immediately after each exposure. It is rather noisy and it felt as though there was considerable vibration when the shutter was released but our fears proved unfounded. In practice no camera movement was detectable either in hand-held exposures of comparatively slow speeds or at the slowest speeds when mounted on a sturdy tripod.

The new Bronica C is a good, versatile SLR. With its many features, and at its price it could easily tempt anyone into medium format reflex field.
James Forney

Tech Data

Camera type: 2 1/4 SLR with interchangeable lenses and accessories with 120/220 film option
Film Transport: Combined film-shutter crank, automatic mirror and diaphragm return, 12 or 24 exposure counter
Lenses: Choice of 50mm, 75, 135, or 200mm (interchangeable with S model). All are fitted with automatic diaphragm
Shutter: Focal plane with speeds of 1 to 1/500 sec plus bulb and X for use with speedlights (flash)
Synchronization: Provisions for FP, M, and X
Other Features:

Pre-loaded film inserts
multiple exposure provision
depth-of-field scales and previewing
removable focusing assembly for special adaptations
use of most S model accessories including interchangeable viewing hoods
extension tubes
extension bellows
lens adapters etc.

SOURCE: Popular Photography December 1964 p. 21

From Sam Sherman:

Bronica Lens Resolution Tests from Modern Photography Nov. 1965

Bronica C 2 1/4 x 2 1/4 Single Lens Reflex:

Abstracted from Modern Tests: of Nov. 1965 in Modern Photography

There is little for medium format fans under $500 despite rivalry between Bronica and Hasselblad. Bronica's Model C cuts 4 ounces and $80 off the camera "while gaining a much desired aim: reliability." The light trap and complicated gearing is also gone from this model. Such an integrated camera will "tend to be less troublesome than a camera with complicated, removable parts which must be interchangeable." This camera is the first medium format SLR which they have called by the title "rugged".

The Bronica C uses a new helical focusing mount, but is otherwise similar to the earlier model C in layout. You can quickly load film using preloaded film inserts ($34.50 in 1965). Naturally, you lose mid-roll film changing. Obviously bronica S backs won't fit the model C, but neither will the Bronica S film inserts! Avoid direct light on the insert while loading to reduce risk of fogging too.

The Bronica C has easy to use 12 or 24 film exposure selection. Near this control is another lever for easy double exposures. You can remove the entire helical focusing ring by a 45 degree counterclockwise twist. The reviewer suggests that this trick will permit using larger bayonet mounting lenses, and providing more focusing travel and hence closer focusing than the standard helical mount alone can provide.

The lenses mount with a 45 degree twist, and remove simply by pressing a button and twisting off. The focusing arc of the helical is 270 degrees. Inside the lens mount is a threaded mount (57x1mm) for other lenses (e.g., Komura lenses for Bronica).

The flash synch is near the bayonet flashgun connection, inside the shutter speed dial (versus in front, as on the older Model S). The model C lacks the mirror lockup of the model S. It still takes 4 1/4 turns to wind film on the model C, as with the Model S too. The various screens, magnifiers, and optical systems elements are the same between the C and S. The Model C is a bit quieter than the S, but not greatly so. The end of the wind results in a definite "click" on the model C (versus none on the model S).

See Bronica Lens Resolution Tests for their lens test results. The 50mm f/3.5 was $269.50, the 135mm f/3.5 was $299.50, and the 200mm f/4 was $359.50. Each stops to f/22, except the 200mm which goes to f/32. They are nicely finished, with white engraved aperture scales.

Abstracted by Bob Monaghan; provided by Sam Sherman - thanks!

Bronica C Test Report

The new Bronica model C takes the same nikkor lenses (50, 75, 135, 200mm), but doesn't have interchangeable film backs, costs $80 less, and can handle the "new" 220 rollfilm too.

Other features are speeds from 1 second to 1/500th second and Bulb, flash synch and bulb synch, double exposure control, depth of field preview, interchangeable finders, and instant return and reopening mechanics that eliminate the light blackout found in other brands (e.g., hasselblad 500c).

The model C uses film inserts which can be quickly loaded. The photographer can have multiple inserts, pre-loaded, for fast end-of-roll film reloading. But unlike the model S with its interchangeable film backs, the model C cannot swap out film in mid-roll.

Use care in loading, including squeezing the two levers to remove and replace the film insert, making sure it engages correctly. You can easily switch between 120 and 220 rollfilm, with the film counter automatically adjusting for each type.

The pop-up magnifier with lens is compact and bright, doesn't darken at the edges, and is easy to use. Two eye level prisms are also available.

The reviewer cites two problems. The first is the full 1 and 3/4ths turns needed to advance film, suggesting much time might be lost between shots in winding the film. The second complaint is that the camera is NOISY! Some portrait sitters will be unnerved by the clatter of the camera. You can get quieter cameras on the market, but they don't have instant mirror return. Decide based on which tradeoff is best for you!

The bronica system has expanded over the years to include lenses, bellows, flash adapters, tripod adapters, filters, sports finders, and other accessories making a very diverse and versatile system for Bronica users. The four auto-nikkor lenses (50mm f/3.5, 75mm f/2.8, 135mm f/3.5, and 200mm f/4) are such that the "well earned reputation of Nikkor lenses speaks for itself".

The price of the Model C with 75mm f/2.8 auto nikkor and neck strap is $379.50.

Reviewed by Michael Edelson, pp. 73, 76, October 1965 U.S. Camera magazine.

Provided courtesy of Sam Sherman, abstracted by Bob Monaghan.

Date: Fri, 17 Sep 1999
From: "S. Sherman" [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: [BRONICA] In Praise of old Bronica "C"

In Praise of Bronica C

from: [email protected] (Sam Sherman)  9-17-99

to: Bronica List:

Some time back someone asked about focal plane Bronica focusing Helicoid for focal lengths other than 75MM.

Looking at my Bronica C, it has an unusual focusing helicoid. It has footage scales for 50MM, 75MM, 135MM and 200MM lenses.

What is odd is the 4 red dots at different points near the infinity point - probably infrared setting for infinity for the 4 lenses.

This footage scale attaches to the focusing ring with several screws, so if this part could be found it could be attached to any normal Bronica focusing mount. This seems to be an advantage over the normal footage scale for 75MM lenses only.

Commenting about the "C". I have had the camera cleaned, lubed and adjusted. It works very smoothly.

It seems to me that if one has a "C" working well that the winding of film is smoother than S-2, S-2A etc. because the camera is not adjusting for the gearing for "different" backs - it is one complete unit with no gear slipping.

I like this design as I rarely change backs, except for the polaroid back. Using different inserts is just as quick to load film.

- Sam Sherman

See new page - Bronica Model P

Was there ever a Bronica model P camera?

Michael Beard, our WWW Bronica Historian, believes that no such model was ever made (per email correspondence). Personally, I suspect that Bronica's marketing arm in the US/UK may have sent out announcements listing such a model P, but the camera was actually released under the Model C designation. But if you have or know of someone who has a model P (or manual for a model P), you can settle this controversy by Emailing me!!!

An old early 1960s British camera handbook lists a Bronica Model 'P' having been announced in 1962 subsequent to the Bronica Model S camera introduced in 1960. The book's description (The Bronica P largely resembles the model S in its features but has no removable film magazine. The magazine and body are one unit and certain operating controls (in particular the dark slide) are thus absent.) suggests that the model P is similar or identical to the Bronica model C described here.

Similarly, the listing from June 1962 p. 100 of Popular Photography's annual camera index lists the Bronica P with the following description:

Bronica Model P

Bronica model P 2 1/4 square, single-lens reflex has same features, accepts same lenses as current Bronica S, but has fixed film back. Among its features are instant-return mirror, instant reopen diaphragm, depth-of-field preview, and a removable focusing hood which interchanges with new eye-level prism finder. It has shutter speeds from 1 to 1/1000 second plus bulb, rapid-advance crank, and independent mirror release. Price with standard lens $299.50 - Distributor Caprod Ltd. 111 Fifth Ave. New York 3, N.Y.

Evidently there was also a later or C2 version of the model C. In addition, listings for the model P Bronica in 1960s Camera Guides in Popular Photography magazine indicate this name was used in the U.S. The camera described as above is similar or identical to the model C above.

From Bronica Digest:
Date: Thu, 17 Feb 2000
From: Mark Walberg [email protected]
Subject: Bronica C questions

My "new" Bronica C arrived yesterday. It looks "well broken in", but it seems to work very well. It is really fascinating to watch all those things happening in the mirror box when the shutter fires with the lens off.

I've got a few questions that I haven't been able to figure out from Bob Monaghan's great site:

1) What is the purpose of the black plastic knob toward the back on the right, right below and in front of the 12/24 switch? It has two positions - one marked D and one with a white dot. I'm guessing that maybe this allows shutter cock without advance for double exposure. Is that it?

2) Top speed on the dial is 500, but there is an unmarked click stop between 500 and X. Is that unmarked click stop the same as the 1000 on other Bronica C bodies that are marked with 1000? Is this speed really useable as one faster than 1/500?

3) The seller said that this is a C2. Is there really a C2 model? If so, how does it differ from a C? This one says Bronica C on the side. There is a fresnel with the ground glass. I can't tell yet whether this one has the old or the newer screen positioning frame described by Sam Sherman on Bob Monaghan's web site, but I'll look.

Thanks for any enlightenment. I'm looking forward to using this tank, which make my Rolleiflex 2.8E look like a toy.

-Mark Walberg

From Bronica Digest:
Date: Thu, 17 Feb 2000
From: [email protected]
Subject: Re: Bronica C questions

from: [email protected] (Sam Sherman) 2-17-2000

to: Bronica List

Mark,

1- The knob is the double exposure switch. You can set it to D and release the shutter to your heart's content, something you cannot do with a Bronica S2-A, unless you take the back off and then it is hard to hold.

2- After 500 the phantom Detent is 1/1000th second. A sales ploy to sell old Bronica S models as C was supposed to have speeds only to 1/500th. What nonsense. Overseas the camera had the 1/1000th second speed marked as such.

3- I think there is no such camera as the C2. The C came in grey or black leather with the 1/1000th speed marked or not. That's it.

4- Use the magnifier in the waist level hood to view. Focus on a distant contrasty subject with your focusing set to infinity and see if the image in the finder is sharp or not. Very important. Youi have read my article and you knowm the rest.

5- Take some pictures and...

Good Luck-

Sam Sherman

rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
From: [email protected] (FLEXARET2)
[1] Re: Bronica C-2 Quality?
Date: Fri May 12 00:08:39 CDT 2000

from: [email protected] (Sam Sherman) 5-12-2000

I don't believe there is a model Bronica C-2.... only the model "C". In the USA the top speed of 1/1000th of a second is not marked on the speed dial (but it is there unmarked). It was sold as an economy model with only a supposed 1/500th top speed while the inferior older model Bronica S was being pitched with its 1/1000th sec. top speed to clear it out. Bronica C models sold outside of the US had the 1/1000th sec. speed marked.

That does not make a "C" a "C-2" - it is the same camera.

The C is a great camera, but buyers getting one would be advised to have them checked and overhauled by either Photography on Bald Mt. or Camera Wiz (see ads in back of Shutterbug). They also need the finder foam replaced. See my articles in Bob Monaghan's Classic Bronica website-

http://medfmt.8k.com/bronica.html
[ed. note: old site was at http://www.smu.edu/~rmonagha/bronica.html ]

[Ed. note: can anyone provide some insight on this unusual modification? Thanks!] From: johnwire [[email protected]] Sent: Fri 2/28/2003 To: Monaghan, Robert Subject: Re: Bronica C Repair Hi Bob, Looks like you had much work getting things going again. I have been getting on your site for several days, but now it is busy again. I have been trying to find more info on this Model C I purchased but as I "dig into it" further it becomes more puzzling. I assumed it was a model C since it didn't have a replaceable film back (at the time I couldn't tell a Bronica from a Hassy) but when I took it into the repairman today for a CLA, he said it was an S model...... and he'd never seen one with a fixed film back. After looking at all the pictures of C's on the web site I am sure now it is an S, The serial number is CB31181 so it is an early S (according to Michael Beard's serial number listing) with what appears to be a modification that has a special dark slide (with a hole in it) that cannot be removed. Have you ever heard of that kind of modification? The repairman was surprised it was still cranking and I am wondering if this camera might have had some special modifications, perhaps factory, to keep it cranking all these years (it is very well used). Just wondering...... Have a nice weekend. John Wire

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