At this time there are no new large format shutters being manufactured. There is some remaining stock, but nearly everything in the market is second hand. These links will take you to the wealth of information we have gathered on each shutter type over the decades. S.K. Grimes no longer has a shutter technician and doesn’t provide a Clean/Lubricate/Adjust shutter service anymore. Please contact us if you would like a referral to another company for shutter repairs.
Please select a Shutter to open the relevant page.
Compound Shutters
Background and Use
Compound shutters are occasional used in the remounts we perform. The Compound #5 is the most frequently used due to its large dimensions.
Compound shutters were made in great numbers and in many different sizes. The main features of their design are the air piston/cylinder at the top of the speed dial and what turns out to be a quirk of operation by which the shutter is not cocked when operated on “B” or “T” setting, but operated by only the action of the release lever (or cable release).
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Cleaning
Compound shutters are occasional used in the remounts we perform. The Compound #5 is the most frequently used due to its large dimensions. Compound shutters were made in great numbers and in many different sizes. The main features of their design are the air piston/cylinder at the top of the speed dial and what turns out to be a quirk of operation by which the shutter is not cocked when operated on “B” or “T” setting, but operated by only the action of the release lever (or cable release). |
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We currently do not service these shutters.
Compur Shutters
The Compur shutters are still in widespread use. The most popular sizes are #0 and #1. Scroll down this page for a table of sizes. The earliest versions have three blades which open and close to deliver the exposure. The vast majority of these are #0 and #1 size, although there are a few #00 size. Most have no flash synch; these are obsolete, as a practical matter. However since they are of the usual rimset design they look similar to the later versions.
Later versions are called “Synchro Compur” or, in the case of the non flash version “Compur Rapid” and have five blades. These are also common in the tiny #00 size as well as the #0 and #1. Like the earlier models they use the tension type mainspring. The larger one in the picture is a special version of the same shutter made for Linhof.
The latest version of the Synchro Compur began production in the early 1970’s and is still in limited production. It has a new design torsion type mainspring and was originally available in sizes #00, #0, #1 and #3. Here, I show the #1 in the largely unsuccessful battery timed “electronic” version. Most of the electronic versions don’t work. Battery vendors for the PX 21 can be found via a Google search.
In addition to the usual #00, #0, #1 and #3 sizes there is an elusive size referred to by default as #2. There are variants and versions that make this a difficult size. These are usually four bladed shutters and exist in both dial set and later as rim set versions. They work more like the Compound shutters but are called Compur and were made thru the late sixties. This size (and the #00 size) is no longer available and replacement with new shutters is a problem. Repair of these an option which must be considered. #0, #1 and #3 sizes are readily replaced with new shutters, so the option of replace instead of repair is available. The Compur shutters are nicely made and well designed. They make use of more machined parts and fewer die stampings and therefore were more expensive to make and sell and have a reputation for high quality. The latest versions are perfect in operation and if it were not for their very high price would be popular. The earlier versions are OK but their performance does not equal their current Japanese made replacements.
| #00 | #0 | #1 | #2* | #3 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| body Ø | 45.2 | 58 | 70.5 | 80.5 | *** |
| front lens thread | M22.5-0.5 | M29.5-0.5 | M40-0.75 | M45.75-0.75 | M58-0.75 |
| back lens thread | M22.5-0.5 | M29.5-0.5 | M36-0.75 | M45.75-0.75 | M58-0.75 |
| overall thickness | 16 | 20 | 20 | 26.75 | 26.75 |
| front to iris | 9.3 | 10.2 | 10.75 | 14.5 | 31.5 |
| mount flange thread | M25.0-0.5 | M32.5-0.5 | M39-0.75 | M50-0.9 | M62-0.75 |
| lensboard hole Ø | 26.3 | 34.6 | 41.6 | 52.5 | 65 |
| iris Ø (Max) | 17.4 | 24 | 30 | 35 | *** |
Self Timer Operation
“P” Press Focus Type and Self Timer Type(No Press Focus)
The self timer button has a stop (see arrow) to keep the cocking lever from moving past that point in ordinary non-self timer use.
After the self timer button has been moved, the shutter cocking lever can be moved as far as the arrow indicates. This engages the gear mechanism needed to cause the approximate ten to fifteen second delay after the shutter release is operated until shutter clicks at its set speed.
The Press focus version Compur P looks the same except that the button pictured is used to operate the Press Focus Feature. Press Focus allows the photographer to open the shutter blades and view the composed image on the ground glass without having to disturb the shutter speed setting or otherwise operate the shutter.
To view the composed image on the ground glass, cock the shutter at any speed setting then push the press focus button back and operate the shutter release. The shutter operation will be blocked with the blades open. To close the blades prior to inserting the film holder re-cock the shutter. This will also push the press focus button back to its rest position.
So why are there two different versions?
The small sized #0 shutters were used on both folding rollfilm cameras (permanently installed shutter) as well as on small sized view cameras. Press focus on a camera without a viewback will cause problems when it is operated since it will spoil the film and have no usefulness at all on such a camera. Rather than design a separate casting the makers used the same parts to operate a nice to have self timer on these mostly amateur cameras.
Operation of Compur 1 Shutter
The five blade Synchro Compur #1 is probably the most numerous of all the Compur shutters. It features shutter speeds from 1/400 Second to One second as well as “B” and “T” Speeds are selected by turning the knurled outside speed dial. There is an additional spring engaged when setting the shutter to 1/400 second. This takes a fair amount of force to turn to 1/400 second and may be very difficult to set to the highest speed with the shutter cocked. This is normal operation.
The shutter is released by operating the release lever or using a cable release in the release socket.
The Green “M/X” lever sets the flash contacts to be used with electronic flash or flashbulbs. Normal flash setting for modern electronic flash is “X”
The Synchro Compur # 1 has both the self timer and press focus.
The #1 shutter has both self timer and press focus. The square stamped lever/button can be used to open the blades when the shutter is cocked. The round button to the right operates the self timer. (Set the cocking lever then push the button, this allows the cocking lever to move a little more and engage the self timer. above. The two controls operate independently of one another. The blades should open when the press focus lever is pushed in and close crisply when the lever is pulled back out. It is a common fault/defect that the blades stick open and do not snap shut when the lever is pulled back out. Even in the case of defect, the blades will usually close if the shutter release is operated.
Copal Shutters
Copal brand shutters were supplied by all the major view camera lens manufacturers with their lenses. These excellent quality shutters had been made virtually unchanged for over twenty years by Nidec Copal Corp, Tokyo, Japan. They were available in two different types and several different sizes. Unfortunately Copal ceased production in 2016 and there is currently no new alternative.
As of April, 2020 we only have Copal Press Shutters in stock.
The Copal Shutter
Copal Brand shutters were manufactured by Copal Co, Tokyo, Japan until 2016. Copal shutters were supplied with Schneider, Rodenstock, Fuji , etc view camera lenses, they are simple, reliable, and economical. The performance and price of Copal shutters is such that they are often a practical improvement over restoration or repair of obsolete or worn equipment. Many lenses will fit directly from their old shutters to new, needing only the appropriate iris scale and mounting to the lens board. We routinely complete changeovers to new shutters, mounted to your lens board and ready to use.
We no longer stock this style of Copal shutter, but do supply retaining rings, iris scales and assorted replacement parts. Current sources for the leaf shutters include 3rd party vendors or used camera vendors.
Standard Copal Shutter Measurements
| #0 | #1 | #3 | #3s | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| front thread | M29.5-0.5 | M40-0.75 | M58-0.75 | M56-0.75 |
| back thread | M29.5-0.5 | M36-0.75 | M58-0.75 | M56-0.75 |
| overall thickness | 20 mm | 20 mm | 32 mm | 28.6 mm |
| front to shutter | 10.2 mm | 10.75 mm | 17.7 mm | 16.25 mm |
| mount thread | M32.5-0.5 | M39-0.75 | M62-0.75 | M61-0.75 |
| lensboard hole | 34.6 mm | 41.6 mm | 65 mm | 64.1 mm |
| iris dia | 24 mm | 30 mm | 45 mm | 45 mm |
Copal Shutter spec drawings
The Copal Press Shutter
The Press Shutter operates differently from the standard version. In the standard version, the shutter is operated on a “set and release” principle. That is, a finger operation is needed to “cock” (in reality, “wind up”) the shutter. Operation is then by cable release or the release lever. The advantage of this design is twofold: First there is speed of operation, the shutter is always ready for exposure and never needs to be cocked.
Second, and of great importance especially to architectural photographers is the ability to make multiple exposures without any risk of disturbing the camera setup. This means that you can take a flash picture, move the flash to another place, make another exposure, and repeat this procedure to light up a large area with only one or two flash heads. With the shutter set at 1/125 second ambient light will not add up and very dramatic results can be obtained. In the case of the Press shutter, all the operation is done via the release lever or cable release. Some extra energy is needed since the cable release actually winds up the mechanism of the shutter. Most of the specifications are the same as the ordinary shutters except for a few internal distances that only effects 1-2 lenses.
We routinely install lenses in these shutter from the Copal standard version. Because of the differences between the shutter versions some attention and experience is needed to ensure proper operation. Iris scales from the standard shutter do not fit the Press shutter. There are a few other points of difference:
- Top speeds are slower: fastest speed is 1/125 sec
- #0 Minimum iris opening is 2 mm on the press, 1.5 mm on regular.
- #1 Minimum iris opening is 2.5mm on the press, 2 mm on regular.
- The iris is about 0.75mm farther back in the shutter.
- The iris diaphragm is a spring loaded affair that is held open when the press focus is operated. All “press” viewing is at full aperture. In order to view thru a selected aperture the shutter must be set to “B” or “T”
- Not available in #3 size.
Copal Press Shutter Measurements
| #0 | #1 | |
|---|---|---|
| front thread | M29.5-0.5 | M40-0.75 |
| back thread | M29.5-0.5 | M36-0.75 |
| overall thickness | 20 mm | 20 mm |
| front to shutter | 11.7 mm | 11.7 mm |
| mount thread | M32.5-0.5 | M39-0.75 |
| lensboard hole | 34.6 mm | 41.6 mm |
| iris dia | 24 mm | 30 mm |
| price* | $426.00 | $585.00 |
Ilex Shutters
The most numerous older view camera shutters are the ILEX brand.
The Ilex shutters were a product of the American optical industry located in Rochester, New York. There are numerous versions produced over fifty years of industry. They were in abundant supply and are still widely used today.
The Ilex is one of the most “American” of products. It’s simple design uses mostly stamped metal parts. Although stamped metal parts have a reputation of being “cheap” this method of mass production requires a rare mastery in the design and fabrication of the tooling for the original parts.
The $2.00 windup alarm clock of which the Ilexes are reminiscent is only that cheap because millions of them were made. The tooling and technology to make a reliable cheap mechanism is very sophisticated. Even taking this into account, the Ilex company came up with at least one real dog of a model: The Dial set version illustrated below on the left, is a lookalike for a more expensive German made shutter. They rarely work at all and reliable operation is nearly impossible. These should be avoided. (Other Black finished models are virtually the same as the usual, reliable, silvery colored ones)
Features and Use
To appreciate the reliability of the Ilex shutter line its best to realize that they were designed to be accurate to within one stop. In addition, the stamped metal parts provide no particular sophistication for adjustment depending on the skill and experience of the mechanic to clean, file, bend and tweak to obtain the best performance and then leave well enough alone. If tenth of a stop accuracy is required the Ilex shutter should be replaced with a new Copal or Compur shutter of most recent design.
This is an ordinary Ilex #3 “Rim Set” shutter. The shutter speed is selected by turning the knurled rim anywhere on the outer circumference . Click on the picture to see an enlarged version with the various parts labeled.
The set and release type “Synchro” models have a complicated set and release type delay mechanism for use with flash bulbs. Since a flash bulb requires some time to become illuminated shutters intended for pre-electronic flash require a method to trip the flash before the shutter is opened. The numbers indicate the milliseconds that the flash is started before the shutter is released. This is obsolete and for use with electronic flash the dial is set to the red “0” setting. It is an inconvenience that two cocking operations are required when using flash: one to set the shutter itself and the other to set the flash synchronizer. This must be done even at the “0” setting.
Kodak Version
When is an Ilex not an Ilex? Shutters marked as “Made for Eastman Kodak” were made to different dimensions from the standard production runs. The face plates of the Ilex are interchangeable, but the overall and flange dimensions are different. This means that lenses and mounting flanges may not be easily interchangeable between different shutters.
Ilex Shutter Measurements
| #3 | #3 (dialset) | #4 | #4 (dialset) | #5 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| overall Ø | 3.375" | 3.070" | 4.025" | 3.825" | 5.20" |
| lens thread | 1.775-48 | 1.785-48 | 2.340-40 | 2.360-40 | 2.988-30 |
| overall thickness | 1.025" | 0.828" | 1.060" | 0.866" | 1.060" |
| front to iris | 0.566" | 0.415" | 0.623" | 0.458" | 0.614" |
| mount flange thread | 1.915-40 | 1.915-40 | 2.500-30 | 2.500-30 | 3.225-30 |
| lensboard hole Ø | 1.985" | 1.985" | 2.604" | 2.604" | 3.365" |
| iris Ø (Max) | 1.362" | 1.375" | 1.730" | 1.741" | 2.525" |
Prontor Shutters
Prontor Professional shutter are self cocking like a Copal Press Shutter. This shutter operates directly from the cable release or release lever. It is not “cocked” or “set” before making an exposure. This allows rapid repetition of exposures without touching the shutter between shots.
The disadvantage is that more energy is required by the cable release to trigger the operation and in addition this mechanism results in the fastest speed being slower than that achievable in a “set and release” or ordinary type shutter.
This is analogous to the difference in operating a revolver by pulling the trigger to revolve the cylinder, cock the hammer, and release the firing pin (A fair amount of finger energy is required to do this.) As opposed to cocking the hammer in a separate operation then squeezing the trigger with minimal energy.
Operation of Prontor professional shutter follows the self-cocking principle. They can be released without any previous cocking operation. This is of particular advantage when multiple exposures with or without flash are carried out. Release is possible by choice with either release lever 1 or by means of the cable release socket 2 (colour code: red). For ground glass viewing shutter and diaphragm can be opened in separate steps via the cable release socket 3 (colour code: white). These two operating steps of releasing and opening are carried out by means of the central remote control unit from behind the camera.
The shutter speeds of 1/125 to 1 s and B can be read both from the front plate (4) and from the top side (5) of the shutter. This is true as well for the aperture (5 and 6). The aperture ring has click-stops in marked 1/3-stop increments. The click-stops can be disengaged–if desired–by lever 11. The scales depend on the mounted lens. The aperture can be set either with the aperture setting handle 7 or with the aperture setting device which is inserted into support 8 and hole 9 of aperture setting handle 7, By means of this device the aperture can be controlled from the rear of the camera.
The flash connection 10 is well protected and plug connections find firm hold.
Additional Information
By using the accessory “time setting device”, the exposure time can be both set and read from the rear of the camera. The time setting device is attached to the aperture setting device and has a rod which is inserted into connection b>(12) on the shutter speed ring. By adding the automatic cartridge accessory, the central remote control unit can be extended to a cartridge automatic if a camera is equipped with an appropriate connection to a cartridge holder. When inserting a film cartridge the shutter, which is usually open during ground glass viewing, closes automatically. The operature (sic) adapts to the pre-set value.
The Prontor Professional line has several accessories to improve its versatility. The following pictures and product literature explain these.
All currently made #0, #1, and #3 (Copal makes two versions of the #3) are essentially interchangeable. The thread dimensions and mounting hole sizes are as in the table on the previous page (There is also a table specific to the Prontor shutters at the bottom of this page) — a lens which will fit a Copal #0 shutter will fit a Prontor Professional #01 for example. There may be some inconvenience such as around obtaining the right iris scale but we routinely accomplish these installations.
Speeds: #0 & #1 1/250 thru 1 sec and “B”. #3 1/125 thru 1 sec and “B”
These are premium quality self cocking shutters. Note that the #0 size is a modification of the #1 size. *These are now discontinued and no longer available. We do not service these shutters.
Prontor Shutter Measurements
| #0 | #1 | #3 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| housing dia. | 72.8mm | 72.8mm | 95mm |
| front thread | M29.5-0.5 | M40-0.75 | M58-0.75 |
| back thread | M29.5-0.5 | M36-0.75 | M58-0.75 |
| overall thickness | 20 mm | 20 mm | 31.5 mm |
| mount thread | M32.5-0.5 | M39-0.75 | M62-0.75 |
| lensboard hole | 34.6 mm | 41.6 mm | 65 mm |
| iris dia | 24 mm | 30 mm | 45 mm |
Packard Shutter Mounting
Packard shutters were originally installed within large studio cameras. The shutter was mounted to the back of the front standard and the tube was fed through the board to the front for bubble firing. A few new camera setups allow for this traditional use of the Packard shutter, but most won’t allow this setup.
Our Packard shutter mounting is designed to mount the shutter to the front of the lens. Usually these are large barrel mounted lenses the can’t be remounted to leaf shutters. Packard shutters give more accurate timing for long exposures while limited to instantaneous shots of 1/15th second. The adapters start at $300 and do not include the cost of the Packard shutter.
COMPOUND SHUTTERS
Background and Use
Compound shutters are occasional used in the remounts we perform. The Compound #5 is the most frequently used due to its large dimensions. Compound shutters were made in great numbers and in many different sizes. The main features of their design are the air piston/cylinder at the top of the speed dial and what turns out to be a quirk of operation by which the shutter is not cocked when operated on “B” or “T” setting, but operated by only the action of the release lever (or cable release). |
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Cleaning
Compound shutters are occasional used in the remounts we perform. The Compound #5 is the most frequently used due to its large dimensions. Compound shutters were made in great numbers and in many different sizes. The main features of their design are the air piston/cylinder at the top of the speed dial and what turns out to be a quirk of operation by which the shutter is not cocked when operated on “B” or “T” setting, but operated by only the action of the release lever (or cable release). |
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We currently do not service these shutters.
COMPUR SHUTTERS
The Compur shutters are still in widespread use. The most popular sizes are #0 and #1. Scroll down this page for a table of sizes. The earliest versions have three blades which open and close to deliver the exposure. The vast majority of these are #0 and #1 size, although there are a few #00 size. Most have no flash synch; these are obsolete, as a practical matter. However since they are of the usual rimset design they look similar to the later versions.
Later versions are called “Synchro Compur” or, in the case of the non flash version “Compur Rapid” and have five blades. These are also common in the tiny #00 size as well as the #0 and #1. Like the earlier models they use the tension type mainspring. The larger one in the picture is a special version of the same shutter made for Linhof.
The latest version of the Synchro Compur began production in the early 1970’s and is still in limited production. It has a new design torsion type mainspring and was originally available in sizes #00, #0, #1 and #3. Here, I show the #1 in the largely unsuccessful battery timed “electronic” version. Most of the electronic versions don’t work. Battery vendors for the PX 21 can be found via a Google search.
In addition to the usual #00, #0, #1 and #3 sizes there is an elusive size referred to by default as #2. There are variants and versions that make this a difficult size. These are usually four bladed shutters and exist in both dial set and later as rim set versions. They work more like the Compound shutters but are called Compur and were made thru the late sixties. This size (and the #00 size) is no longer available and replacement with new shutters is a problem. Repair of these an option which must be considered. #0, #1 and #3 sizes are readily replaced with new shutters, so the option of replace instead of repair is available. The Compur shutters are nicely made and well designed. They make use of more machined parts and fewer die stampings and therefore were more expensive to make and sell and have a reputation for high quality. The latest versions are perfect in operation and if it were not for their very high price would be popular. The earlier versions are OK but their performance does not equal their current Japanese made replacements.
| #00 | #0 | #1 | #2* | #3 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| body Ø | 45.2 | 58 | 70.5 | 80.5 | *** |
| front lens thread | M22.5-0.5 | M29.5-0.5 | M40-0.75 | M45.75-0.75 | M58-0.75 |
| back lens thread | M22.5-0.5 | M29.5-0.5 | M36-0.75 | M45.75-0.75 | M58-0.75 |
| overall thickness | 16 | 20 | 20 | 26.75 | 26.75 |
| front to iris | 9.3 | 10.2 | 10.75 | 14.5 | 31.5 |
| mount flange thread | M25.0-0.5 | M32.5-0.5 | M39-0.75 | M50-0.9 | M62-0.75 |
| lensboard hole Ø | 26.3 | 34.6 | 41.6 | 52.5 | 65 |
| iris Ø (Max) | 17.4 | 24 | 30 | 35 | *** |
SELF TIMER OPERATION
“P” Press Focus Type and Self Timer Type(No Press Focus)
The self timer button has a stop (see arrow) to keep the cocking lever from moving past that point in ordinary non-self timer use.
After the self timer button has been moved, the shutter cocking lever can be moved as far as the arrow indicates. This engages the gear mechanism needed to cause the approximate ten to fifteen second delay after the shutter release is operated until shutter clicks at its set speed.
The Press focus version Compur P looks the same except that the button pictured is used to operate the Press Focus Feature. Press Focus allows the photographer to open the shutter blades and view the composed image on the ground glass without having to disturb the shutter speed setting or otherwise operate the shutter.
To view the composed image on the ground glass, cock the shutter at any speed setting then push the press focus button back and operate the shutter release. The shutter operation will be blocked with the blades open. To close the blades prior to inserting the film holder re-cock the shutter. This will also push the press focus button back to its rest position.
SO WHY ARE THERE TWO DIFFERENT VERSIONS?
The small sized #0 shutters were used on both folding rollfilm cameras (permanently installed shutter) as well as on small sized view cameras. Press focus on a camera without a viewback will cause problems when it is operated since it will spoil the film and have no usefulness at all on such a camera. Rather than design a separate casting the makers used the same parts to operate a nice to have self timer on these mostly amateur cameras.
OPERATION OF COMPUR 1 SHUTTER
The five blade Synchro Compur #1 is probably the most numerous of all the Compur shutters. It features shutter speeds from 1/400 Second to One second as well as “B” and “T” Speeds are selected by turning the knurled outside speed dial. There is an additional spring engaged when setting the shutter to 1/400 second. This takes a fair amount of force to turn to 1/400 second and may be very difficult to set to the highest speed with the shutter cocked. This is normal operation.
The shutter is released by operating the release lever or using a cable release in the release socket.
The Green “M/X” lever sets the flash contacts to be used with electronic flash or flashbulbs. Normal flash setting for modern electronic flash is “X”
The Synchro Compur # 1 has both the self timer and press focus.
The #1 shutter has both self timer and press focus. The square stamped lever/button can be used to open the blades when the shutter is cocked. The round button to the right operates the self timer. (Set the cocking lever then push the button, this allows the cocking lever to move a little more and engage the self timer. above. The two controls operate independently of one another. The blades should open when the press focus lever is pushed in and close crisply when the lever is pulled back out. It is a common fault/defect that the blades stick open and do not snap shut when the lever is pulled back out. Even in the case of defect, the blades will usually close if the shutter release is operated.
COPAL SHUTTERS
As of April, 2020 we only have Copal Press Shutters in stock.
THE COPAL SHUTTER
Copal Brand shutters were manufactured by Copal Co, Tokyo, Japan until 2016. Copal shutters were supplied with Schneider, Rodenstock, Fuji , etc view camera lenses, they are simple, reliable, and economical. The performance and price of Copal shutters is such that they are often a practical improvement over restoration or repair of obsolete or worn equipment. Many lenses will fit directly from their old shutters to new, needing only the appropriate iris scale and mounting to the lens board. We routinely complete changeovers to new shutters, mounted to your lens board and ready to use.
We no longer stock this style of Copal shutter, but do supply retaining rings, iris scales and assorted replacement parts. Current sources for the leaf shutters include 3rd party vendors or used camera vendors.
STANDARD COPAL SHUTTER MEASUREMENTS
| #0 | #1 | #3 | #3s | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| front thread | M29.5-0.5 | M40-0.75 | M58-0.75 | M56-0.75 |
| back thread | M29.5-0.5 | M36-0.75 | M58-0.75 | M56-0.75 |
| overall thickness | 20 mm | 20 mm | 32 mm | 28.6 mm |
| front to shutter | 10.2 mm | 10.75 mm | 17.7 mm | 16.25 mm |
| mount thread | M32.5-0.5 | M39-0.75 | M62-0.75 | M61-0.75 |
| lensboard hole | 34.6 mm | 41.6 mm | 65 mm | 64.1 mm |
| iris dia | 24 mm | 30 mm | 45 mm | 45 mm |
COPAL SHUTTER SPEC DRAWINGS
THE COPAL PRESS SHUTTER
The Press Shutter operates differently from the standard version. In the standard version, the shutter is operated on a “set and release” principle. That is, a finger operation is needed to “cock” (in reality, “wind up”) the shutter. Operation is then by cable release or the release lever. The advantage of this design is twofold: First there is speed of operation, the shutter is always ready for exposure and never needs to be cocked.
Second, and of great importance especially to architectural photographers is the ability to make multiple exposures without any risk of disturbing the camera setup. This means that you can take a flash picture, move the flash to another place, make another exposure, and repeat this procedure to light up a large area with only one or two flash heads. With the shutter set at 1/125 second ambient light will not add up and very dramatic results can be obtained. In the case of the Press shutter, all the operation is done via the release lever or cable release. Some extra energy is needed since the cable release actually winds up the mechanism of the shutter. Most of the specifications are the same as the ordinary shutters except for a few internal distances that only effects 1-2 lenses.
We routinely install lenses in these shutter from the Copal standard version. Because of the differences between the shutter versions some attention and experience is needed to ensure proper operation. Iris scales from the standard shutter do not fit the Press shutter. There are a few other points of difference:
- Top speeds are slower: fastest speed is 1/125 sec
- #0 Minimum iris opening is 2 mm on the press, 1.5 mm on regular.
- #1 Minimum iris opening is 2.5mm on the press, 2 mm on regular.
- The iris is about 0.75mm farther back in the shutter.
- The iris diaphragm is a spring loaded affair that is held open when the press focus is operated. All “press” viewing is at full aperture. In order to view thru a selected aperture the shutter must be set to “B” or “T”
- Not available in #3 size.
COPAL PRESS SHUTTER MEASUREMENTS
| #0 | #1 | |
|---|---|---|
| front thread | M29.5-0.5 | M40-0.75 |
| back thread | M29.5-0.5 | M36-0.75 |
| overall thickness | 20 mm | 20 mm |
| front to shutter | 11.7 mm | 11.7 mm |
| mount thread | M32.5-0.5 | M39-0.75 |
| lensboard hole | 34.6 mm | 41.6 mm |
| iris dia | 24 mm | 30 mm |
| price* | $426.00 | $585.00 |
ILEX SHUTTERS
The most numerous older view camera shutters are the ILEX brand.
The Ilex shutters were a product of the American optical industry located in Rochester, New York. There are numerous versions produced over fifty years of industry. They were in abundant supply and are still widely used today.
The Ilex is one of the most “American” of products. It’s simple design uses mostly stamped metal parts. Although stamped metal parts have a reputation of being “cheap” this method of mass production requires a rare mastery in the design and fabrication of the tooling for the original parts.
The $2.00 windup alarm clock of which the Ilexes are reminiscent is only that cheap because millions of them were made. The tooling and technology to make a reliable cheap mechanism is very sophisticated. Even taking this into account, the Ilex company came up with at least one real dog of a model: The Dial set version illustrated below on the left, is a lookalike for a more expensive German made shutter. They rarely work at all and reliable operation is nearly impossible. These should be avoided. (Other Black finished models are virtually the same as the usual, reliable, silvery colored ones)
FEATURES AND USE
To appreciate the reliability of the Ilex shutter line its best to realize that they were designed to be accurate to within one stop. In addition, the stamped metal parts provide no particular sophistication for adjustment depending on the skill and experience of the mechanic to clean, file, bend and tweak to obtain the best performance and then leave well enough alone. If tenth of a stop accuracy is required the Ilex shutter should be replaced with a new Copal or Compur shutter of most recent design.
This is an ordinary Ilex #3 “Rim Set” shutter. The shutter speed is selected by turning the knurled rim anywhere on the outer circumference . Click on the picture to see an enlarged version with the various parts labeled.
The set and release type “Synchro” models have a complicated set and release type delay mechanism for use with flash bulbs. Since a flash bulb requires some time to become illuminated shutters intended for pre-electronic flash require a method to trip the flash before the shutter is opened. The numbers indicate the milliseconds that the flash is started before the shutter is released. This is obsolete and for use with electronic flash the dial is set to the red “0” setting. It is an inconvenience that two cocking operations are required when using flash: one to set the shutter itself and the other to set the flash synchronizer. This must be done even at the “0” setting.
KODAK VERSION
When is an Ilex not an Ilex? Shutters marked as “Made for Eastman Kodak” were made to different dimensions from the standard production runs. The face plates of the Ilex are interchangeable, but the overall and flange dimensions are different. This means that lenses and mounting flanges may not be easily interchangeable between different shutters.
ILEX SHUTTER MEASUREMENTS
| #3 | #3 (dialset) | #4 | #4 (dialset) | #5 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| overall Ø | 3.375″ | 3.070″ | 4.025″ | 3.825″ | 5.20″ |
| lens thread | 1.775-48 | 1.785-48 | 2.340-40 | 2.360-40 | 2.988-30 |
| overall thickness | 1.025″ | 0.828″ | 1.060″ | 0.866″ | 1.060″ |
| front to iris | 0.566″ | 0.415″ | 0.623″ | 0.458″ | 0.614″ |
| mount flange thread | 1.915-40 | 1.915-40 | 2.500-30 | 2.500-30 | 3.225-30 |
| lensboard hole Ø | 1.985″ | 1.985″ | 2.604″ | 2.604″ | 3.365″ |
| iris Ø (Max) | 1.362″ | 1.375″ | 1.730″ | 1.741″ | 2.525″ |
PRONTOR SHUTTERS
Prontor Professional shutter are self cocking like a Copal Press Shutter. This shutter operates directly from the cable release or release lever. It is not “cocked” or “set” before making an exposure. This allows rapid repetition of exposures without touching the shutter between shots.
The disadvantage is that more energy is required by the cable release to trigger the operation and in addition this mechanism results in the fastest speed being slower than that achievable in a “set and release” or ordinary type shutter.
This is analogous to the difference in operating a revolver by pulling the trigger to revolve the cylinder, cock the hammer, and release the firing pin (A fair amount of finger energy is required to do this.) As opposed to cocking the hammer in a separate operation then squeezing the trigger with minimal energy.
Operation of Prontor professional shutter follows the self-cocking principle. They can be released without any previous cocking operation. This is of particular advantage when multiple exposures with or without flash are carried out. Release is possible by choice with either release lever 1 or by means of the cable release socket 2 (colour code: red). For ground glass viewing shutter and diaphragm can be opened in separate steps via the cable release socket 3 (colour code: white). These two operating steps of releasing and opening are carried out by means of the central remote control unit from behind the camera.
The shutter speeds of 1/125 to 1 s and B can be read both from the front plate (4) and from the top side (5) of the shutter. This is true as well for the aperture (5 and 6). The aperture ring has click-stops in marked 1/3-stop increments. The click-stops can be disengaged–if desired–by lever 11. The scales depend on the mounted lens. The aperture can be set either with the aperture setting handle 7 or with the aperture setting device which is inserted into support 8 and hole 9 of aperture setting handle 7, By means of this device the aperture can be controlled from the rear of the camera.
The flash connection 10 is well protected and plug connections find firm hold.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
By using the accessory “time setting device”, the exposure time can be both set and read from the rear of the camera. The time setting device is attached to the aperture setting device and has a rod which is inserted into connection b>(12) on the shutter speed ring. By adding the automatic cartridge accessory, the central remote control unit can be extended to a cartridge automatic if a camera is equipped with an appropriate connection to a cartridge holder. When inserting a film cartridge the shutter, which is usually open during ground glass viewing, closes automatically. The operature (sic) adapts to the pre-set value.
The Prontor Professional line has several accessories to improve its versatility. The following pictures and product literature explain these.
All currently made #0, #1, and #3 (Copal makes two versions of the #3) are essentially interchangeable. The thread dimensions and mounting hole sizes are as in the table on the previous page (There is also a table specific to the Prontor shutters at the bottom of this page) — a lens which will fit a Copal #0 shutter will fit a Prontor Professional #01 for example. There may be some inconvenience such as around obtaining the right iris scale but we routinely accomplish these installations.
Speeds: #0 & #1 1/250 thru 1 sec and “B”. #3 1/125 thru 1 sec and “B”
These are premium quality self cocking shutters. Note that the #0 size is a modification of the #1 size. *These are now discontinued and no longer available. We do not service these shutters.
PRONTOR SHUTTER MEASUREMENTS
| #0 | #1 | #3 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| housing dia. | 72.8mm | 72.8mm | 95mm |
| front thread | M29.5-0.5 | M40-0.75 | M58-0.75 |
| back thread | M29.5-0.5 | M36-0.75 | M58-0.75 |
| overall thickness | 20 mm | 20 mm | 31.5 mm |
| mount thread | M32.5-0.5 | M39-0.75 | M62-0.75 |
| lensboard hole | 34.6 mm | 41.6 mm | 65 mm |
| iris dia | 24 mm | 30 mm | 45 mm |
PACKARD SHUTTER MOUNTING
Packard shutters were originally installed within large studio cameras. The shutter was mounted to the back of the front standard and the tube was fed through the board to the front for bubble firing. A few new camera setups allow for this traditional use of the Packard shutter, but most won’t allow this setup.
Our Packard shutter mounting is designed to mount the shutter to the front of the lens. Usually these are large barrel mounted lenses the can’t be remounted to leaf shutters. Packard shutters give more accurate timing for long exposures while limited to instantaneous shots of 1/15th second. The adapters start at $300 and do not include the cost of the Packard shutter.