Lumière Box 4x6.5
Specification
| Manufacturer | : | Lumière |
|---|---|---|
| Produced | : | 1935 |
| Classification | : | Medium Format |
| Body Type | : | Box |
| Construction | : | Metal |
| Film Type | : | 127 |
| Film Width | : | 46mm |
| ImageSize | : | 1⅝ x 2½ in |
| No. of Images | : | 8 |
| Lens Type | : | meniscus |
| Focal Length | : | 75mm |
| Focus Type | : | Fixed |
| Focal Range | : | 10ft - inf. |
| Aperture Type | : | Fixed |
| Aperture | : | f/13 |
| Shutter Type | : | Rotary |
| Shutter Speeds | : | T, I*(1/100sec) |
| Size[body] (w x h x d) | : | 66 x 95 x 93 mm |
| Weight | : | 380g |
| * Measured on this camera | ||
Art Deco Credentials
Significant: Pronounced and self evident
I consider this camera to warrant 4 stars for the following attributes:
- Designed during the main Art Deco period
- Black and chrome faceplate
- Lined pattern on faceplate
- Striped pattern on body covering
- Concentric circles on door lock.
- Chromed viewfinder
- Curvilinear shape
- Aluminium winder.
Description
This metal bodied camera opens at the side to load the film. This is the 1st Lumière box camera to have a side opening which was subsequently adapted for the Scoutbox (1935) and the Scoutbox (1939).
It has a simple T(P) & I shutter and a single sized aperture. The shutter control has a locking position (S). There is an aluminium knob to wind the film and framing control is by the use of the red window. It has an unusual large folding frame viewfinder. Being made from metal makes this a very sturdy camera.
How to Use
This camera takes 127 film which is still available from select outlets - search for 'Rera Pan 100-127' which is a black & white film. For those photographers in the UK, try Nick & Trick photographic services. If you want to use a particular type of film which is not available commercially, then you can cut your own 127 film from any 120 film. See my page on 'How to cut 127 film from 120 film'.
If you don't want to bother with an exposure meter, follow the guide shown. It is based on the 'Sunny 16' rule. Film is so forgiving and will produce acceptable results even when overexposed by 2 or 3 stops or underexposed by 1 stop.
Remember that the exposure guide in the camera user manual may not be helpful as it is based on the use of old film with a low ISO value.
The table assumes that the sun is at least 30 degrees above the horizon - that's 10am - 5pm on a summer's day in the UK.
This camera has an aperture of f/12 and a measured shutter speed of 1/100s.
As the shutter speed is only 1/100s, it is advisable to try to hold the camera against a wall or other solid object. For quick snapshots, hold it firmly against your face as you look through the viewfinder.
Using ISO 100/125 film - shutter speed 1/100s
| Weather Conditions | Shadow Detail | Aperture | Exposure |
|---|---|---|---|
 SunnySnow/Sand | Dark with sharp edges | f/12 | +2 Stop Overexposed Acceptable |
| Sunny | Distinct | f/12 | +1 Stop Overexposed Acceptable |
 Slight Overcast | Soft around edges | f/12 | Good |
 Overcast | Barely visible | f/12 | -1 Stop Underexposed Acceptable |
 Heavy Overcast | None | f/12 | -2 Stop Underexposed Unacceptable |
 Open Shade/Sunset | None | f/12 | -3 Stop Underexposed Unacceptable |