Pre-Owned - GRAFLEX SPEED GRAPHIC 4X5 Camera w/ Optar 135mm f/4.7 Lens

Pre-Owned - GRAFLEX SPEED GRAPHIC 4X5 Camera w/ Optar 135mm f/4.7 Lens

Camera is in excellent condition, bellows is intact.

The Graflex Speed Graphic 4x5 is the quintessential American press camera, famously relied on by mid-century photojournalists and icons like Weegee. When paired with the standard Graflex Optar 135mm f/4.7 lens, it forms a highly versatile, classic large-format field kit capable of producing exceptional detail on 4x5 sheet film.

Key Camera Specifications & Features Dual Shutter System: The defining characteristic of the Speed Graphic is its built-in rear focal-plane shutter, capable of speeds up to 1/1000th of a second. This allows photographers to use fast, "barrel" lenses that lack built-in leaf shutters.

Front Standard Movements: While limited compared to modern studio view cameras, it offers front rise and limited tilt functionality for crucial perspective control.

Focusing Mechanisms: Equipped with a side-mounted rangefinder (often Kalart models) for quick handheld focus, alongside a rear ground glass screen for critical composition.

Interchangeable Film Backs: Depending on the specific era (e.g., Anniversary or Pacemaker models), it features either a classic spring back or the highly versatile Graflok back, which supports adapters for 120 roll film or instant film.

The Optar 135mm f/4.7 Lens Optical Design: Built by Wollensak for Graflex, this lens uses a sharp, Tessar-type 4-element design. It is highly regarded by users for producing classic, punchy contrast and edge-to-edge resolution.

Focal Length: The 135mm focal length offers a slightly wide-to-normal field of view on a 4x5 frame, making it the premier choice for environmental portraits, street photography, and landscapes.

Shutter Pairing: It comes mounted in either a Graphex or Rapax leaf shutter, giving you a secondary option for flash synchronization at all speeds.