Frank Six Dual Format Folder Camera
Photo thanks to Bob Jay
[email protected]
Tosei Optical Co. of Japan made several folders in the early 1950s. The
Frank Six folder of 1951 used 120 film, featured a 75mm f/3.5 Anastigmat
lens, used the TKS shutter (B, 1 to 1/200th second), and had an eye level
viewfinder. You could produce 6x6cm or 6x4.5cm images using a mask.
A later variant, the Frank Six Model IV of 1953 added a waist level
finder along with the earlier eye level optical finder. The lens was
usually either a Tosei 80mm f/3.5 Anastigmat or Tri-Lausar.
Both cameras are good examples of how inexpensively you can get into
medium format using an older folder (e.g., well under $100 typically).
Rare dual format camera from Tosei Optical. Lens is f3.5 75mm Seriter. Shutter is slow below 1/25.
Date: Wed, 15 Mar 2000
From: [email protected] (Peter Mikalajunas)
Newsgroups: rec.photo.misc
Subject: Re: Franka - Anybody know this camera? Or information
Source...
"Mike Davidson"
[email protected] wrote:
Judging by the serial number, it is a single coated lens that was made
by Schneider between Feb '57 and May '59.
You can find the the age of Schneider lenses at:
http://www.schneideroptics.com/large/serial.htm
The Xenar is a 4 element 3 group design with an angle of view of
approximately 55 to 65 degrees. A 45mm will only cover 35mm. It is a
tessar design that should be very sharp.
The Franka is considered a "low end" collectible / user camera. This
one has a nice lens and should give good sharp pictures. Though it is
not up to modern standards for 35mm lenses.
>Hiya all... > >I've come across an old camera which I love the look of and I'm hoping to >find out some more about it. Unfortunately, after an hour or so's surfing >around (some of your sites are very nice BTW) I've been unable to find >anything on the specific maker and model. I'm hoping that you can point me >towards some information sources and I'd be extremely grateful if you could. > >The camera is marked as follows.... > >Franka >Super-Frankarette Pronto SVS >It has Schneider-Kreuznach Xenar 1:2.8/45 5462611 on the lense rim and >"Made in Germany US Zone" on the back of the Leather Case. > >Its got this realy nice chunky feel to it and everything appears to work (as >if I'd know if it didn't), do these take normal film (35mm)? > >Many thanks in advance > >Mike Davidson
Peter Mikalajunas
Photo links
http://www.megsinet.com/tintype
[Ed. note: a lens variant - collectors take note ;-)...]
Date: Fri, 15 Dec 2000
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: Frank six
I recently purchased a Frank six Model -1-.Still has the mask[small
wonders].and on your site for it ,it is stated among others it comes with
a SERITER 75mm 1:3.5.Mine has a SERITER '80mm' @ 1:3.5.The shutters are
TKS B- to 200.
BTW-It still takes pictures,B&W came out great[if you like the
effect, which I do] now for some color print film,who knows:}
Great site
Ron Bishop
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