anyone in socal have a master technika?

[DanielStone]

hey all,

I've been doing some searching, along with LOTS of reading, trying to find a suitable replacement for my trusty Sinar F2 kit(which is still for sale btw). I've been leaning towards a Linhof Master Technika, due to most of my shooting taking place AWAY(200+ yds) from the car most of the time, mostly hiking here in LA.

does anyone on here in the LA area have a Master Technika that they'd be willing to show me so I can get a grip on the "feel" of the camera itself? I've seen them before, and know they have a lot of people who like them, but this isn't the kind of investment that I'd want to make lightly, especially without 'tasting' what the camera can/should do.

just in case, wooden field cameras are kinda out for me, so Cham's and Tachi's, mayyybe an Ebony(used of course) could fit, but I like metal things, well-built metal things . I'm not just after the name, but something that can serve me for many years of good use.

thanks

-Dan

[DanielStone]

also,

not JUST LA, but anywhere within a reasonable driving distance from LA.

thanks

-Dan

[raizans]

ditto. i called all of the camera stores in the LA basin and there isn't much to look at. nobody has a linhof, and the only "internet famous" camera i found is a canham 8x10 traditional at samy's on fairfax.

[2F/2F]

Hey, Daniel.

They are not as slick and nice as Master Technikas, but I do have two Technika IIIs that you are welcome to fiddle with. One of them is loaned out at the moment, but the other will probably sit unused for the next four months. These are both version fours, the last model with the single-surfaced (as opposed to five-surfaced) bed.

[2F/2F]

BTW, I recommend a Super Graphic or Super Speed Graphic, or Horseman clones as well. We should go into Frank's one time just to see the ones they have in there at absolutely ridiculous prices, so you can get an idea of how they feel, operate, and handle. Who knows? Flap some cash in front of her, give her some straight talk about the market, and she might come to her senses and cut a good deal.

I got my two Techs because they happened to come along in complete original kits (which is a necessity with the IIIs if you want to use them hand held), for a decent deal ($1650 for both, each with extensive three lens original kits, one with zoom finder and custom case), and because I am also somewhat of a sucker for cool old stuff with a little collectible appeal as well. However, if I had actually been searching for a camera to use in the field as 100% tool, I probably would have got a Super Speed Graphic or Horseman instead.

[DanielStone]

Hey 2F,

I've had the chance to use a Crown/Speed before, wasn't really my thing unfortunately. Due to myself being tall, I generally set up the tripod too tall anyhow, so having some basic movements(more than the Crown or Speed) is pretty much a necessity.

thanks for your offer regarding ?Franks? never heard of them before. I'm down for a trip though!

-Dan

[2F/2F]

Hi, Daniel.

Got your PM. Will call after I go out to eat with my friend.

Frank's was the east side's equivalent of Samy's in its heyday. It was a powerhouse pro photo shop! Now, Frank himself is gone, and the place is...well, let's just say it is beyond words. It is more like a dust museum than a photo store...with a certifiable proprietor and big, angry, smelly dogs barking at you the whole time. I am sure they make an average of about 5 cents a day there now...but, anyone in L.A. needs to check it out at least once, just for a good laugh/cry.

[2F/2F]

P.S. Super Graphics and Super Speed Graphics are a huge improvement in features over the Pacemakers. Rotating back, cammed rangefinder, swings, etc. They have more in common with a Super Technika than with the Pacemaker Speed/Crown Graphics.

[raizans]

someone in LA is selling a technika v on ebay. i asked if i could go see it in person, and mentioned that other people might be interested.

[DanielStone]

thanks,

I viewed/fondled a fellow apug members Technika III yesterday. I'm definitely game for a M.T. now for the saving part


-Dan