Graflex Norita with 80mm lens - Photo Courtesy of Jack Yau - Thanks Jack!
Related Links:
170-320mm f/4 Zoomar For
Norita (Stephen Gandy)
| Norita 66 Manual Online |
|---|
| Special Thanks to Bill Kenner!!! |
Norita, Rittreck, Warner 66
Source: Medium Format on a Budget, Bob Shell, Shutterbug,
January 1992, pp. 69.]
| Norita 40mm and 240mm Lens Data | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Norita | 40mm | f/4 | 240mm | f/4 |
| f/stops | center | edge | center | edge |
| 4 | excellent | acceptable | very good | very good |
| 5.6 | excellent | acceptable | very good | very good |
| 8 | excellent | good | excellent | very good |
| 11 | very good | good | excellent | very good |
| 16 | very good | good | very good | very good |
| 22 | very good | good | very good | very good |
The Norita 40mm f/4 lens is roughly equiv. to a 25mm on a 35mm SLR, covering nearly 90 degrees diagonally. The 240mm lens is also interesting, given its low weight (2 1/2 lbs) and short size (7 inches) with very high contrast and resolution (as the table above suggests). The lenses cost $429 (40mm) and $399 (240mm) in 1971. The 40mm focuses to 10 inches, while the 240mm goes to 11 feet. Both lenses take 77mm filters.
Warner 6x6 w. 80mmf/2 $495
40mm f/4, 80mm f/2, 160mm f/4, and 240mm f/4 lenses listed, but price not available...
I am using a Graflex Norita. It delivers quite well. Looking for other
users to discuss.
thanks in advance
Tom
Date: Sun, 5 Apr 1998
From: PatTomR1 [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: NORITA 66
I have a Norita 66 with a 55mm f4 Noritar. Came with a very heavy duty neck
strap.
A real Beast! I had shutter checked at local camera show and it proved to
be very accurate, though somewhat loud. I have'nt yet run any film thru
it, but I intend to.
I have one question, I hope someone can help me. On the top lefthand side
of the camera are the initials D and N, with a sliding switch between
them. These initials are also on a small round knob on the right side of
the camera. What are these two adjustments for?
Tom
Date: 14 Apr 1998
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Norita Graflex -- N and D settings
Saw the question about the "N" and "D" settings on the Norta
Graflex. As I understand it, and I just stumbled over one of these two
days ago, and have no book with it, "N" is normal mode, and "D" is
double exposure mode. To double expose, prepare to take a picture as
usual, set both switches to "D", take the first exposure, wind (the
film will not advance, but the shutter will cock; you may need only
one stroke of the wind lever for this), and take the second
exposure. Obviously this can be extended to however many exposures on
one frame you desire. Then return to the "N" setting and your next
wind will be normal.
--
David Dyer-Bennet [email protected]
Me: http://www.ddb.com/~ddb (photos, sf)
rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
From: [email protected] (Bill Kenner)
[1] Re: Norita Graflex 6x6 SLR durability, value, reliable repairs
Date: Wed Apr 15 1998
David,
Your Norita 6x6 is a tough old bird. If it's in good condition and you want
to keep it, I'd suggest that you send it to Ross Yerkes Camera Repair, 342
Kirby St., LA, CA, 90042; telephone 213-256-1018. He is the primary repair
person for Noritas. He has a stock of parts cameras as well. Since my
camera hasn't needed repairs, I have not had occasion to use him.
Lenses are still available on the net in 40mm f 4.0, 55mm f4.0, 70 leaf
shutter, 80mm f2.0 & 2.8, 160mm f4, 240mm f4.5. Extension tubes are also
floating around as is an occasional TTL metered prism and waist level
finder. I have all but the 55mm lens and I have been impressed with the
lens quality. It's on a par with other name brand lenses from the 70s and
the 40mm is much sharper.
I got into the Norita by accident; I found a buy that I couldn't pass up. I
too was impressed with it and added to the system.
Good luck,
Bill Kenner
From: [email protected] (Robbie57)
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Norita Graflex 6x6 SLR durability, value,
Date: 20 Apr 1998
Look inside the mirror box and see if the foam rubber the factory used as
a seal is deteriorating and sticky.I found this to be a problem with one
of my noritas as well as a number of other cameras made in the 60's and
70's.As for the sticky diaphragm:SEND IT OUT FOR REPAIR.It may need just a
good cleaning.A small bit of the lubricant may have migrated onto the
blades.Good Luck
rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
From: [email protected] (Bill Kenner)
[1] Norita history
Date: Sun May 10 1998
I have a couple of Noritas and lenses. I was curious about their history. I
have a couple of specific questions:
Which of the Noritas and its two other incarnations are rumored to be
most reliable?
Warner had Carl Zeiss lenses designed for their Norita/Warner body. Did
any of these make it into circulation?
Early bodies had a mirror lock up. How well do these work? Are they
available on the net or in camera stores or have they been snapped up by
collectors/users who don't want to turn loose of them?
Thanks for your time and attention,
Bill Kenner
Nashville, TN
[Sample Ad - price info only (presumed sold already..)]
From: [email protected] (TomSurovek)
Newsgroups: rec.photo.marketplace
Subject: Norita 6X6 SLR, 2 lenses, 2 finders $550
Date: 26 May 1998
Graflex Norita, 120/220 SLR taking interchangeable lenses, looks a bit
like a
Pentax 6X7, with 80mm f2 and 55mm f4 lenses, waist level finder & eye level
prism - $550 + appropriate postage. Medium format SLR system with 120 and 220
capability. Advise interest
Tom
219-844-2462 evenings
From: [email protected]
Newsgroups: rec.photo.marketplace
Subject: FS: Norita gear for parts or repair
Date: Thu, 28 May 1998
For Sale:
Graflex Norita 6x6 body with focusing screen
Noritar 80mm f/2.0 lens w/ original cap
Norita metered prism
All of the above are broken, in varying states of disrepair. The right
person
might be able to make it work again, if not, its chock full of parts!
<<$90 or best offer>> (includes shipping)
rec.photo.marketplace
From: "chris gonzalez" [email protected]
[1] FS:Norita 6x6 package
Date: Sat Jun 20 1998
2 bodies
40mm f4 , 80mm f2.8
$1250
rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
From: [email protected] (TomSurovek)
[1] Re: Wanted 6x6 med format camera.
Hi - I have a Norita, 6X6 SLR, looks like a Pentax 6X7. Includes 80mm f2 and
55mm f4 lens, waist level finder and prism finder - $550 + postage. Advise
interest
thanks
Tom
MFD:
From: David Strachan [email protected]
Subject: Response to Any other Norita users?
Date: 1998-07-02
Yes, I also have a Norita 66, with 40mm and 80mm lenses. Really fantastic camera, good to hold and the lenses are excellent. Recently tested my lenses rigorously(same peice of film, same light and subject, same development) and found the 80mm to be better than the Hassellblad 80mm Planar.
Also like the fact takes 220 film as well as 120 film.
I've heard the Norita was invented by the inventor of the Nikon F, Nikon
never made any medium format. The story goes the inventor left Nikon
because of this and made the wonderful Norita 66. Any thoughts, or more
particularly facts on the Camera??
Can anyone suggest a place I can get an instruction book????
From: [email protected] (David L. Glos)
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Glass Manufacturers
Date: Tue, 07 Jul 1998
Dave [email protected] wrote: >Heinz, > >That is interesting to hear about Leitz. In my industry we do not work with German >manufacturers because the competition for low price rules out manufacturers in >Europe. The demand for high quality remains though. So, I am more familiarwith >North American (yes, there are some good optics houses in the U.S. and Canada) and >Asian companies who some of the time make lenses for their own brand named products >and/or make OEM lens assemblies for other companies. I think many folks would be >surprised to know who it is that makes lenses for some brand name cameras. Bet >everybody thought Norita was gone (if you have ever seen an old Norita >camera!)....but they are still out there making OEM lenses. >
SNIP
Interesting that you mention Norita. I have a couple of their old 120 SLR's,
and the optics are quite good for their age. I have the 40/4, a couple of
80/2's and a 160/4. The 80 is simply superb, and the 40 is great, even to the
edges, by f/8. Absolutely first rate for the $425 I paid for that lens. The
160 is no slouch, but not in the same league as the 40 and 80. Flare is an
issue, particularly with the 40, although, I can only assume they are single
coated, which may be part of the issue. Careful use of lens hoods make
it pretty much a non-issue.
Would be interesting to hear what they are into now.
David Glos
Univ. of Cincinnati
513.558.6930
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
To: "David L. Glos" [email protected]
Subject: Re: Glass Manufacturers
Date: Tue, 07 Jul 1998
David,
Your right, Norita made some nice optics and still do. It doesn't surprise
me that you have to be careful with flare though, since optics from that
period did not have sophisticated coatings. Norita still makes lenses.
They built a projection lens that I was involved in designing about 4
years ago. They build lenses for a number of different companies for
projectors and maybe even cameras. OEM's are typically pretty tight lipped
about who they build for though, so it is hard to know exactly where their
optics show up, but I bet some camera manufacturers have been using them
along with the projector market. They also make lenses and optical
components for the "three gun" large screen TV market.
Regards,
David
Date: Mon, 13 Jul 1998
From: Michael Kenner [email protected]
Reply to: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: Old lens tests?
Robert,
I have several Norita lenses and I'd wondered if you know of any old
lens tests on that system of lenses. I recently had Ross Yerkes install
one of Bill Maxwell's bright screens. The improvement was dramatic and
worth the $200.00 for screen and instillation. Maxwell has to cut the
Norita down from a Hassy screen and that takes extra delivery time.
Thanks,
Bill Kenner
Nashville, TN
From: [email protected] (Bill Kenner)
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Medium format for low available light photographie
Date: Tue, 04 Aug 1998
[email protected] (Vince) wrote:
> Hi, I'm a "35mm SLR guy" and I'd like to go to medium format especially > for low available light photography. > > Unfortunately medium format h-speed films are few : Fuji NHG II 800, > Kodak 1000 and perharps behind the technological curve of the 35mm. > Moreover lens speed is not as fast for medium format lenses as 35 mm > lenses (the fastest I found is a 1.9 mamiya 80 mm lens, and 2.4/105 > pentax lens). > > So I'm wondering if using a high-speed film (800 for example) at 2.0 in > 4.5*6 format will yield to better results than a Super-G 800 at 1.4 in > 35mm ? Any testymony ?
Try the Norita 80mm f2.0. It was highly rated when it was made in the late
60s and early 70s. I have used that system and I'm very pleased with the
results. The hot lenses in that system are the 40mm f4.0, the 80mm f2.0 and
the 160mm f4.0 with the 40 the best of the bunch.
Bill Kenner
Nashville, TN
From: [email protected] (David L. Glos)
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: fastest lens on MF
Date: Thu, 24 Sep 1998
>Now that we have a list of these fast lenses, has anyone actually used >any of these (particularly the f/2 lenses) wide open. Anyone used more >than one of these and have comments on how they compare? > >John Sparks
I have an 80/2.0 on my Norita that I have used wide open plenty of times.
Often with HP5+ 'pushed' to 800, or even 1600, although shadow detail is
falling apart at that stage. It really is quite sharp, wide open, but it
something I only typically do with people and close up. In other words,
most of the frame is out of focus due to depth of field constraints. Of
course, the HP5+, pushed in Microphen, is a touch 'gritty', and has great
accutance, which only adds to the illusion of sharpness.
David Glos
Univ. of Cincinnati
513.558.6930
[Ed. sample ad...]
From: Jack [email protected]
Newsgroups: rec.photo.marketplace
Subject: FS:Graflex Norita
Date: Wed, 30 Sep 1998
Graflex Norita-2 1/4 Sq. Newly rebuilt mirror box-transport and P.C.
With 80mm Noritar & 160mm Noritar $800.00 O.B.O.
--
rec.photo.marketplace
From: Jack [email protected]
[1] FS:Graflex Norita
Date: Tue Oct 06 1998
Graflex Norita-2 1/4 Sq. Newly rebuilt mirror box-transport and P.C.
With 80mm Noritar & 160mm Noritar $650.00 O.B.O.
Interested parties please call 717-343-2660 ask for Michael
--
** Respond to [email protected] **
rec.photo.marketplace
From: [email protected] (IGORcamera)
[1] FS: Noritar 160/4 $225.
Date: Tue Oct 06 1998
Hi,
Noritar 160/4 for Norita Graflex camera.
Condition is Ex++ , case $225.
plus the shipping
Please, E-mail me for the Medium Format List.
Thanks
Igor
rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
From: [email protected] (Bill Kenner)
[1] Re: KOWA/SIX
Date: Sun Oct 18 1998
I have a similar vintage Norita system and Ross Yerkes in LA has done kept
me going with great work, reasonable prices and quick service. I have
talked to him about Kowa and I know that he repairs them. He tries to keep
a couple of parts camera around. His address is:
Ross Yerkes Camera Repair
342 Kirby St.
LA, CA 90042
213-256-1018
Bill Kenner
rec.photo.marketplace
From: [email protected]
[1] FS: Noritar 70mm/f3.5 lense for Norita $225
Date: Thu Nov 19 1998
For Sale:
Noritar Lense 70mm/f3.5 with leaf Shutter 1/2-1/500 * for Norita Camera (turn you Norita into a Norita Lux Model) * Only norita lense with leaf shutter * allow Flash sync at all speeds: 1/2 - 1/500 * PC sync connector on the lense * 77mm Filter Size * Glass clean and clear * No dent and ding, small wear marks on the barrel * Shutter works and accurate
Asking US$ 225 + shipping / or best offer
[Ed. note: I am posting this ad mostly for pricing and other info in it -
it is probably already sold...]
rec.photo.marketplace
From: [email protected] (Bill Kenner)
[1] FS: Norita 6x6 System
Date: Wed Jan 13 1999
I have a rather complete Norita 6x6 system for sale:
Norita Body in Exc/Exc + condition with a Maxwell Brillant Screen with
split image rangefinder and TTL meter. 80mm f2.0 lens in Exc condition. The
body has had a recent clean and adjust by Ross Yerkes. The new screen
transforms the viewfinder into one that is as bright as current SLRs. The
body has only slight, fine brassing on a couple of edges. $700.00.
Norita Body in Very Good condition. 80mm f2.0 lens in Exc condition.
Brassing is more extensive that on the other. This body has also had Ross's
attention and works perfectly too. $400.00.
40mm f4.0 lens Exc+ condition. This lens is both a legend and a bargain in
medium format. It's sharpness, contrast and freedom from distortion ranks
with the Hasse 40mm. $450.00 ($400 with either body)
70mm leaf shutter lens Exc+ condition with box and instruction. Sync speeds
up to 1/500. $300.00
160mm f4 lens in Exc/Exc+ condition $250.00
240mm f4 lens in Exc/Exc+ condition $300.00
Prism with a ding (I bought this separately from the bodies) $35.00
Wasit level finder in Exc+ condition (this finder is better built than most
WL finders and a joy to use.) $75.00
Extension tubes I & II $120.00
I have collected the Norita for several years and I have enjoyed using the
system. The lenses are sharp and everything is well made. Both bodies were
cleaned, lubed and adjusted by Ross within the past 6 months. He installed
the Maxwell screen after Bill Maxwell cut it for me from his standard Hasse
screen.
I decided to sell the Norita after I bought an RB-Pro S for tele work and a
Mamiya 7 for wide angle. I came to 6x6 from 35mm and I'm a rectangular
person rather than a square. I know that buying a vintage system over the
net can seem a bit risky so I shipped it to Ross for consignment sale. He
will be glad to discuss it with you and give his independent assessment of
condition, etc. His address and phone number is:
Ross Yerkes Camera Repair
342 Kirby Street
LA, CA 90042
213-256-1018
I would be happy to answer questions by email but Ross is not yet on line.
Bill Kenner
Nashville, TN
[Ed. note: this ad is provided for its information content, price points,
but most items are probably already sold by time you read this...]
rec.photo.marketplace
From: [email protected] (Bill Kenner)
[1] FS: Norita 6x6 system
Date: Sun Feb 07 1999
I have a rather complete Norita 6x6 system for sale:
Norita Body in Exc/Exc + condition with a Maxwell Brillant Screen with
split image rangefinder and TTL meter. 80mm f2.0 lens in Exc condition. The
body has had a recent clean and adjust by Ross Yerkes. The new screen
transforms the viewfinder into one that is as bright as current SLRs. The
body has only slight, fine brassing on a couple of edges. $700.00.
Norita Body in Very Good condition. 80mm f2.0 lens in Exc condition.
Brassing is more extensive that on the other. This body has also had Ross's
attention and works perfectly too. $400.00.
40mm f4.0 lens Exc+ condition. This lens is both a legend and a bargin in
medium format. It's sharpness, contrast and freedom from distortion ranks
with the Hasse 40mm. $450.00 ($400 with either body)
70mm leaf shutter lens Exc+ condition with box and instruction. Sync speeds
up to 1/500. $300.00
160mm f4 lens in Exc/Exc+ condition $250.00
240mm f4 lens in Exc/Exc+ condition $300.00
Prism with a ding (I bought this separately from the bodies) $35.00
Wasit level finder in Exc+ condition (this finder is better built than most
WL finders and a joy to use.) $75.00
Extension tubes I & II $120.00
I have collected the Norita for several years and I have enjoyed using the
system. The lenses are sharp and everything is well made. Both bodies were
cleaned, lubed and adjusted by Ross within the past 6 months. He installed
the Maxwell screen after Bill Maxwell cut it for me from his standard Hasse
screen.
I decided to sell the Norita after I bought an RB-Pro S for tele work and a
Mamiya 7 for wide angle. I came to 6x6 from 35mm and I'm a rectangular
person rather than a square. I know that buying a vintage system over the
net can seem a bit risky so I shipped it to Ross for consignment sale. He
will be glad to discuss it with you and give his independent assessment of
condition, etc. His address and phone number is:
Ross Yerkes Camera Repair
342 Kirby Street
LA, CA 90042
213-256-1018
I would be happy to answer questions by email but Ross is not yet on line.
Bill Kenner
Nashville, TN
Date: Tue, 16 Mar 1999
Reply to: [email protected]
To: Robert Monaghan [email protected]
Subject: Re: Manuals
Robert,
I am glad that the manuals arrived. No rush. I appreciate your work on
the medium format websites. That was a big help to me. If I can help
someone with a Norita question or problem, feel free to give them my
email address. I'll do what I can.
Bill Kenner
Date: 26 Feb 1999
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: Danny Gonzales MF-page - about Norita 66
Hello!
I am a serious amateur (nature & cityscapes), have been working mostly
with MF
and LF equipment for the last 13 years. Have used a number of different
MF-SLR's incl. Bronica S, S2a, Hasselblad 500 c/el, Hbl. 2000FC, Pentax 6x7
and Mamiya RB67 - and the Norita 66!
I purchased my Norita 66 equipment second-hand here in Norway in -85 I
think it was. Bought it from an australian vet. He had bought it back home
in Australia. My camera were simply "Norita 66", but the camera have also
appeared as Graflex Norita 66, Singer Norita 66 as well as when first
introduced (at some camera-show, in 1966 I think) as the Warner 66.
My equipment consisted of 55mm/4,0, 80mm/2,0 and 400/4,5. A set of three
extension-tubes (automatic), and both a plain and metered prism. The
camera-body is well-made - mostly brass, heavy but smaller than the Pentax
67. It is very easy to hand-hold for quick-shots. Shutter is a
cloth-curtain with speeds of 1 - 1/500 and x-sync. at 1/40sek. 55 and 80mm
lenses in all-aluminium barrel with dept-of-field preview-button. 62mm
filter-thread. The 55 and 80 is identical in barrel-size and design. The
400/4,5 is a heavy monster. Auto-diaphragm and dept-of-field
preview-button also on this one. Filters (95mm or something like that) on
the front. A large adjustable (adjusting for extension-tubes between lens
and body) support-bracket screws into the tripod-hole in the camera-body
and locks with a collar around the lens-body. With this one, the unit
balances perfectly on a tripod using the tripod-screw holes in the
support-bracket. All lenses connected to the camera by a heavy-duty
breech-lock mount. Very realiable and well-made. I did never do anything
to test lens-quality, so I will not try to put them in line with anything
current. However, they were OK, and espesially the 400/4,5 were
excellently sharp.
The coupled meter prism worked, but slowly: It was coupled to
shutter-speed wheel only. After selecting shutter-speed, you had to turn a
milled-wheel on the back of the prism-house with your thumb until a
pointer in the wievfinder coincided with the "C" - shaped pointer
(-connected to shutter-speed wheel) and then read the aperture on a
rotating scale on top of the prism-housing. Battery were one PX 625 I
think. The viewfinders could easily be changed quickly and safely with
only one hand (two large knobs on each side of the finder-housing were
pressed backwards to release). The camera had provision for
double-exposure and could use both 120 and 220 film without modifications:
just press the pressure-plate inwards and slide it from 120 to 220
position and then change the frame-counter-setting from 120 to 220. The
film advance was by a multi-ratchet mechanism instead of the Pentax 67
single-continous stroke. I have a Pentax 6x7 at present, but preferred the
Norita-type. Don't remember if you had to have more than one stroke to
advance to the next frame, but I remember that it was very quick to use.
Camera-movements from mirror-movements must have been much less than on
the Pentax 67, but I never got to test this. The camera did not have a
mirror lock-up mechanism. Other lenses in the Norita-system included 40mm
(don't remember the apertures!), 70mm leaf-shutter, 180 and 240 I think.
Waist-level finder as well as microscope-adapter. I believe the 400/4,5 I
had is rather rare. In an issue of "Popular (or "Modern"-)
Photography" from the -70, I think I read in a Cambridge Camera ad. that
they
had Zoomar tele-lenses for the Grafex-Norita 66.
When I finally sold the nearly exhausted (it had seen a lot of service
when I bought it) Norita equipment after using it for 8 years it were
because the shutter-curtain brakes (well-known problem on Pentax 6x7 as
well) were worn-out so that the shutter-curtains didn't stop at end of
travel, but bumped back a little into the film port, causing underexposure
along the sides of the frame. This could not be fix'ed in Norway, where
the camera had hardly been sold at all (and this were long before all the
helpful guy's on the 'net - as well as the net itself - had appeared). I
had also had my first (in all those years of use) jamming of the
camera-mechanism. It was easily fix'ed, but signalled that the old fellow
might up for a retirement.
Hope this is to any help!
Tor Kviljo
rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
From: [email protected] (Bill Kenner)
[1] Re: Norita Vs. Pentax 6x7
Date: Thu Apr 01 1999
[email protected] wrote:
> I am a student looking for a good medium format SLR. I am also on an > extremely tight budget. I have used the pentax 67 and loved it but it is > quite expensive. I recently came across an old Graflex Norita and it > looks promising. Sharp lenses (supposedly) and CHEAP. Does anyone out > there have experience with the Noritas? What would my limitations be if > I bought this camera as opposed to the Pentax? This would be my first > medium format camera and I have little experience with them. I am > looking for an SLR that will take good sharp B&W's and chromes. Also, > would I be able to use a camera like this for commercial work? I do alot > of fashion work. Thanks for any help.
Kris,
I have owned and used the Norita and I have used a friend's Pentax 6x7. The
Norita was produced from the late 60s through around 72. When Norita went
out of production, Pentax bought the patents and toolings that went into
their 6x7.
I enjoyed the Norita system that I owned. I had 2 bodies with 40, 70 LS,
80, 160 and 240. The lenses are sharp and can give you top performance for
lenses designed and produced in that era. The 40 is astounding. The weak
pionts for the Norita is the film transport system that has a clutch to
limit the pressure that you can put on the system before it slips. This
means that you have to carefully load the 120 film with the feed spool's
plunger pushed down on the top of the camera's left. That keeps the film
square as it moves over to the takeup spool. This isn't a problem once you
catch on.
There is a great website on the Norita that you can get to with your search
engines. Ross Yerkes in L.A. still works on the Norita and he has a few for
parts. In fact he is selling my system; I don't know what's left.
Bill Kenner
Nashville, TN
[Ed. note: FYI regarding for-sale item, also price info for items too!]
Date: Sun, 5 Sep 1999
From: Zach Murphy [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: Norita 66 / lenses/ RA finder for sale
From Rollei Mailing List:
Date: Thu, 17 Aug 2000
From: William Barton [email protected]
Subject: Re: [Rollei] [Fwd: Response to Medium Format Nikon]
------Original Message------
Bob,
If my memory is not too bad I remember in 1971 when I got back
for Nam and was working for a Graflex dealer( boy does that age
me) They were also the dist for Norita, and one of the tech rep's
told me that Norita was the source for the Nikon prism's under
contract. Also that the desinger for the Norita,Warner,Ritterneck
(spelling?) was a member of the Nikon F design team???? That was
a long time ago and I could be full of "you know what"
wbill.......
From: Bob Shell [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Sent: August 17, 2000
Subject: Re: [Rollei] [Fwd: Response to Medium Format Nikon]
Norita???? That's news to me. I know Norita made some lenses in
Nikon mount for 35mm cameras but never heard of Nikon making anything
for Norita.
Bob
> From: John Hicks [email protected] > Date: Thu, 17 Aug 2000 > To: [email protected] > Subject: Re: [Rollei] [Fwd: Response to Medium Format Nikon] > > Plaubel, Bronica and Norita
Actually your memory is pretty good. Graflex was the importer/distributor
for Norita, and the Norita cameras sold in the USA had Graflex Norita
on the nameplate. Norita was a phoenix risen from the ashes of Rittreck,
the original maker of the camera. When they went bankrupt, Norita, one
of their suppliers, took over production and renamed the camera.
Unfortunately, Singer had just bought Graflex at about this same time, and
set out on a course which seemed to us dealers to be specifically designed
to put Graflex out of business. They did no advertising or promotion for
the cameras, and no one was surprised when the Graflex division of Singer
went out of business. I always wondered why Singer bought them in the
first place.
Since Graflex was Norita's biggest customer, the collapse of Graflex
took Norita down with it. The camera made a brief appearance at photokina
under the Warner name and sporting a line of lenses from Zeiss, but
those lenses never materialized and cameras with the Warner nameplate
are quite rare. I missed one at an auction in Cologne a few years ago.
That's the only one I ever saw for sale.
Actually, the main designer of the Rittreck 6 X 6 SLR was the same man
who designed the Canon FT, FTb, TL, TLb and original F-1. Internally
the Rittreck/Norita/Warner is mechanically pretty much of a clone of
one of these Canon cameras, as is the lens mount. I used to repair
Norita cameras when I could still get parts. They were very well made
and easy to work on.
Norita may well have made prisms for Nikon, since it is common for
Japanese camera makers to subcontract parts. For many years Mamiya
made the camera backs for Nikon, and I am sure other parts were
outsourced as well.
Bob
...
From Rollei Mailing List:
Date: Thu, 17 Aug 2000
From: Bob Shell [email protected]
Subject: Re: [Rollei] [Fwd: Response to Medium Format Nikon]
That makes sense. I played around once with making an adapter to
put Carl Zeiss Jena lenses from Praktisix on a Norita. The Norita
body was considerably thinner so it was not too hard to do by
cannibalizing a couple of extension tubes, one for each mount.
I thought of making it auto diaphragm, but that was too much work.
Could have been done, though.
Bob
> From: John Hicks [email protected] > Date: Thu, 17 Aug 2000 > To: [email protected] > Subject: Re: [Rollei] [Fwd: Response to Medium Format Nikon] > > you wrote: > >> Norita???? That's news to me. > > It's a really vague memory of a camera a guy had in 1975, and of course I > may be mistaken. I believe it was a 75-80mm f2.8 lens, and could've been > adapted from a Bronica. > > John Hicks > > [email protected]
From Contax Mailing LIst;
Date: Fri, 22 Dec 2000
From: Bob Shell [email protected]
Subject: Re: [CONTAX] OT - Bob's "Singer Projector" note
> From: "Jack Casner" [email protected] > Date: Fri, 22 Dec 2000 > Subject: [CONTAX] OT - Bob's "Singer Projector" note > > Bob, wasn't there a large format camera imported or made by Singer - > "Norita" or "Noria". > > What WAS that camera? > > Jack C.
That was the Norita. A medium format SLR looking like a scaled up
Canon FT. Originally it was introduced under the Rittreck name. When
Rittreck went bankrupt, Norita (who had supplied parts for the camera)
bought the tooling and continued production under their name. The
Rittreck ones are silver chrome and rather rare. Norita switched to
less expensive black paint on theirs. There were two Norita versions,
the original which has a mirror lockup switch, and the later version which
was simplified a bit and lacks the mirror lockup. The normal lens was
an 80 mm f/2, the first lens that fast for a medium format SLR. If
memory serves, lenses were 40, 50, 80, 160, 240. I think some longer
lenses were announced but never built. Lens quality was good.
Not long after Singer bought Graflex they took on USA distribution of
the Norita line. Cameras they imported have nameplates reading
Graflex Norita. Singer never had the foggiest notion of how to sell
cameras and did not do well with the Norita. There was almost no
advertising or support, and most people didn't know about the camera.
When Singer shut Graflex down, that killed Norita in the process.
The tooling and such was then bought by a company called Warner. Warner
came to photokina one year with the new version with the Warner name
on the front and a full line of lenses from Carl Zeiss replacing the
former Noritar lenses. I don't know how many were made and sold under
the Warner name, but it must not have been many. I've only ever seen
one Warner camera for sale at an auction (Brekker in Cologne had it)
but I was outbid on it.
There is a rumor that the man who designed the original Rittreck SLR
is the same man who designed the Nikon F. I do not believe this at
all since the Rittreck was mechanically a clone of the Canon FT and
has no mechanical resemblence to the Nikon F. I don't think a former
Nikon designer would copy a Canon design.
Bob
rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
[1] Re: In search of reasonable 2-1/4 sq or 645 camera
From: Nhat Nguyen [email protected]
Date: Wed Apr 04 2001
Check out the Norita 66 as an affordable 6x6 system.
There is a Delphi forum dedicated to it at
http://forums.delphiforums.com/norita
Date: Tue, 5 Mar 2002
From: beataandjay [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Hi there,
Could you update your old Norita forum site to give our new Norita address?
http://forums.delphiforums.com/norita
They are asking now for four dollars a month membership which is fine and no
more banner ads/advertising. Thank you for your help on this.
Dr. Jay Temkin
Date: Thu, 05 Apr 2001
From: Nhat Nguyen [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: norita mulitcoated lenses
Hello Bob,
For all the Norita shooters out there...
I just wanted to pass on the word that Norita did manufacturer
multi-coated lenses sometime towards the end of their production run.
Until recently, it was assumed that all Noritar lenses were single coated.
I own the MC 55mm Noritar. It�s the only multicoated version of the 55mm
that I have come across so far. There is another gentleman from the Norita
Forum over at Delphi that just found an MC 40mm and an MC 240mm.
So far, these are the only three multicoated lenses that I have heard of.
We have a Norita forum over at www.delphi.com/norita
Other member also agree that these are the only three that they have heard
of so far as well.
The lenses are marked "MC" on front and differ in that the focusing ring
is rubberized instead of the older knurled metal focusing ring.
Date: Thu, 10 May 2001
From: Nhat Nguyen [email protected]
To: Robert Monaghan [email protected]
Subject: Norita items for sale
Robert,
In case you know of any Norita photographers, I am selling my Norita
Extension Tube Set.
They are mint in the box and appeared to have never been used. These tubes
are difficult to find and I know Norita photographers would love to get
their hands on these.
I am asking for $180, plus $10 to ship anywhere in USA.
Thanks.
Nhat
From: "Ljutko" [email protected]> Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format Subject: Re: Norita 6x6 Date: Sun, 7 Oct 2001 I found everything that I need. I tested prism and metering is working very fine, regarding that this is a medium format. I compered to my Canon's (EF and T90) and my friend Nikon F5. Error in reading is very small. If anybody needs some help regarding to Norita and TTL prism I can help , send pictures ... Great unit - I like it very much!! tnx darko
[Ed. note: thanks to Jim Burzio for sharing these notes on his Norita lenses!...] Date: Mon, 7 May 2001 From: Jim Burzio [email protected] To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected] Subject: NORITA MULTI-COATED LENSES Saw your Emails on the Norita Forum - www.delphi.com/norita - and thought you might like to know that I also have a multi-coated NORITAR 160mm f4. In the United Kingdom Norita was distributed by J.J. Siber's who incidentally were the main distributor for Canon cameras and National flashguns. The Canon connection may also add support to the theory that it was the designer of the Canon F-1 who designed the Rittreck/Norita/Warner cameras rather than the Nikon F as sometimes reported. Has anyone any idea what the name of the Canon F-1 designer was? Best wishes, Jim Burzio.
[Ed. note: partly a note here to remind us that Norita lenses were used on other cameras!] From: Marv Soloff [email protected] Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format Subject: Re: old Koni-Omega : does it get much better than this? Date: Sat, 14 Jun 2003 I have the 80mm f:2.8 Noritar. Coverage is not a problem - it is supplied on the factory shell and will cover 6 x 7 and 6 x 9 - I have only shot 6 x 7 so I can't say definitively about 6 x 9 but I see no problem. The first time I shot with the Noritar, I was puzzled about the quality of the picture - not sharpness - not contrast - something almost undefinable - that I don't see in the Planars and Rotelar. Other people have reported a similar result with Noritar lenses, so I am not alone. The more I use it, the fonder I become of it. This lens produces images that are highly subjective. To me, the results are very pleasing but I can't put my finger on exactly why. Tis a true mystery Try it - you may like it. Regards, Marv Dan Fromm wrote: > Marv Soloff [email protected] wrote > >>It's amazing isn't it. I have shifted over to the Graflex XL cameras >>with the Zeiss, Rodenstock and Norita lenses. Lovely images. I keel >>over with laughter when I see some poor bastard shell out megabucks for >>a Hassleblad lens or back. If I want to gild my XL lily, I can get >>Mamiya RB or Horseman backs for it. Very expensive at $150 - $200 per >>back instead of the $60 - $70 for the Graflex back. And so it goes. >>The Koni-Omegas are excellent (but a bit heavy for me) - just establish >>a relationship with someone who can repair them. >> >>Regards, >> >>Marv >> >> > > Marv: > > Somewhat off topic, but you opened the door to it. I've been > chasing faster lenses for my 2x3 Speed for no particularly good > reason. Just recently sold the most outrageous of the lot, but > continue to wonder about the XL's Noritars. Which ones do you have, > how do you like them? And will any of the ones shorter than 100 mm > cover 2.25 x 3.25? > > Thanks, > > Dan
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