ANBA Wood View Field Camera 4x5

[LyleB]

I haven't been able to find a lot of information on this camera other than that is one of the cheaper, less well-constructed of the common field cameras. Usable, but not known for it's great build.

What would be a fair price for a used one, described as "Mint" and "Flawless Condition"? The photos do look nice. This is available, body only with GG. No extras.

What do you think?

Any comments on quality?

Thanks.

[srmcnamara]

I have one. I bought it in January 2009 as my first (and only) 4x5. I can't remember what I paid for it but I think with lens, meter, and holders I paid about 800 or so. so I would say just less than 500 for the body.

As far as usage, it's the lightest 4x5 I've heard of. It folds up nicely without lens. Movements are limited (no shifts, minimal swing). But on the whole I love it quite a bit and would recommend it.

[outwest]

One of these was my first 4x5. It cost me $100 and I sold it for $100. It is very light and being lightly built, gives a feeling of fragility. It is serviceable, however, and can be a good first field camera. If "mint" and "flawless" equals expensive, I might look for something else that is "sturdy", "used" and "cheap".

[LyleB]

Thanks,

I passed on it, it went for about $440. I'll just keep looking.

[glbeas]

I had one before the Ebony. Though lightly built it had a feature I liked. You could use a 65mm lens on it easily by shifting the rear standard forwards to keep the front rails out of the picture. The knobs were way too easy to loosen and fall off while hiking around with it. I replaced two or three on mine while I had it.

[cdholden]

I'd be happy to take one of these in a 5x7 if anyone has a spare they'd like to toss my way.
Being very light would make a great camera for backpacking.