MF condenser & lens or Gnome enlarger

[gray1720]

I've been considering developing my own for a while now as my box camera collection has largely stood idle since I lost the use of a darkroom - it's not the same when you have to spend a tenner for eight shots, all of which may be crummy!

Anyway, I've just picked up for next-to-nothing a Gnome Universal Alpha II enlarger. Not the best bit of kit around, but cheap and convenient to collect. It has a 35mm condenser in it and a 50mm lens. I'm told that you can just about get an 8x10 print from a 6x9 neg with that set up, by someone who used to use one, but I'd really like the proper bits for medium format. Does anyone out there happen to have a longer lens and condenser hanging about, before I try to buy one, or try to use as a diffusion enlarger?

Thanks,

Adrian

[huwevans]

It has a 35mm condenser in it and a 50mm lens. I'm told that you can just about get an 8x10 print from a 6x9 neg with that set up, by someone who used to use one...

Sounds like hogwash to me - I don't think any 50mm enlarging lens ever made has had a wide enough field to cover 6x9 at that magnification, and if it had I hate to think what the corner quality (not to mention light fall-off) would be like. And how a condenser set designed for 35mm would cover 6x9 is equally baffling.

[gray1720]

Well, if that is the case then it increases my need for the right bits, doesn't it?

"Hogwash" is a word that should be used more often. And I like your BS meter spotted elsewhere.

Adrian

[huwevans]

Thank you!

[Malcolm_Stewart]

You could try S/H Darkroom Supplies, Nova Darkroom and MXV darkroom page.

I expect you'll have to ask for things like condensor lenses.

I bought my Gnome Alpha some years ago, used it once or twice, but have never thought of getting rid of it.

[John_K]

I don't know your particular enlarger model but Gnome made quite a number that were very similar and some of the parts were interchangeable. However as a guide for a 2.25 x 3.25 negative you will need a 105mm (41/4") condenser - is your enlarger big enough to take one? Also your lens will need to be about 100mm to 105mm in focal length to cover the whole negative.

lenses should not be a problem but I can imagine the correct condenser pair (Yes you need 2) will be somewhat of a challenge plus the necessary housing to hold them in place. I wish you luck but I would not hold my breath.

[gray1720]

Hi John,

Thanks for the advice. Yes, there's plenty of space in there - you could fit a fairly hefty condenser in there. Think 1950s hairdresser's hairdryer! I've not measured the internal diameter of the housing, but it's at least 4 1/4".

So the condensor lenses need to be the same diameter as the focal length of the lens... As you say, I've seen several lenses (I have a possible source...), but not condensers. There are two lenses on ebay at the moment, no housing with them, but they are 3 1/4" so presumably would be for a 80mm lens? And for 6x6 or 127, presumably?

Frankly, I'm a tinkerer, so if I can't do MF I shall just do 35mm, and keep my eyes open.

Cheers,

Adrian

[John_K]

Another possible source for 4.25" condensers could be Mr cad in Crodon:-

www.mrcad.co.uk

or if you Google 'Gnome Enlargers' there are a few sites that support that topic.

Have fun.

[gray1720]

Thank you gentlemen - a friend has now offered me a Gamer enlarger (wish he'd told me earlier!), so I may end up with two - will see whether this one has a MF condensor or not (he used to shoot a Rollei, so I might be in luck....). If not, I have lots of options, and I've just had a nice chat with the guy from second hand darkroom, who is only a few miles down the road.

Most annoying thing so far is discovering that Nova's portable darkroom is 10cm taller than our bathroom ceiling - renting a flat, there's only so much you can do to make it dark!

Never mind - a bit of cunning will find a way, just have to find a bit of cunning...

Adrian