Mergott Jem Flash
Art Deco Credentials ⓘ
Subtle elements of Art Deco appear without fully shaping the design
Modest: Subtle and restrained Deco influence
- Produced after the main Art Deco period;
- Geometric Art Deco front panel in chrome;
- Symmetrical face;
- Quirky Font;
- Nickel viewfinder surrounds;
- Nickel winder;
- Plastic embossed strap.
Specification
| Manufacturer | : | J.E. Mergott Co. |
|---|---|---|
| Produced | : | 1940 |
| Classification | : | Medium Format |
| Body Type | : | Box |
| Construction | : | Metal |
| Film Type | : | 120 |
| Film Width | : | 62mm |
| Image Size | : | 2¼ x 3¼ in |
| No. of Images | : | 8 |
| Lens Type | : | Meniscus |
| Focus Type | : | Fixed |
| Focal Length | : | 90mm |
| Focus Range | : | 10ft to inf |
| Aperture Type | : | Fixed |
| Aperture | : | f/16 |
| Shutter Type | : | Rotary |
| Shutter Speeds | : | T,I*(1/25 sec) |
| Synchronised Flash | : | Yes |
| Size (w x h x d) | : | 84 x 115 x 120 mm |
| Weight | : | 423g |
| * Measured on this camera | ||
Description
The Mergott Jem Flash Camera is a box-type camera manufactured in 1940. It was manufactured in the USA in Newark, New Jersey. The facade has a strong black symmetrical geometric pattern printed on chrome. The metal body is covered in black leatherette and it has a plastic handle with 'JEM JR.' embossed on it. It has two reflecting brilliant finders. It also has a flip out sports finder on the body. It features a nickel winder. The red window on the back is not covered.
It is fixed focus with a T/I shutter. The T/I switch is found on the top of the camera. The shutter speed on this camera was measured at 1/25s. The T(timed) function allows the aperture to stay open as long as the shutter is depressed.
The lens is found on the film carriage mechanism with only a plane glass protecting cover on the body. The film plane is curved to give better focus at the edges of the frame.
Flash contacts are found at the bottom of the front panel giving synchronisation for flash attachments.
Get a camera like this from Ebay - Mergott Co. Jem Flash
How to Use
This camera takes 120 film which is easily available from photographic outlets.
As the shutter speed is only 1/25s, it is advisable to hold it against a wall or other solid object to get shake free shots. There are no tripod sockets. For quick snapshots, hold it firmly against your body.
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.
The tables assume that the sun is at least 30 degrees above the horizon - that's 10am - 5pm on a summers day in the UK.
Modern films are sensitive to red light. Make sure you cover the red window with black tape and only open it to wind on in low light.
Remember that the exposure guide in the manual may not be helpful as it is based on the use of old film with a low ISO value.
Using ISO 100 film - shutter speed 1/25s
| Weather Conditions | Shadow Detail | Aperture | Exposure |
|---|---|---|---|
 SunnySnow/Sand | Dark with sharp edges | f/16 | +3 Stop Overexposed Acceptable |
| Sunny | Distinct | f/16 | +2 Stops Overexposed Acceptable |
 Slight Overcast | Soft around edges | f/16 | +1 Stop Overexposed Acceptable |
 Overcast | Barely visible | f/16 | Good |
 Heavy Overcast | None | f/16 | -1 Stop Underexposed Acceptable |
 Open Shade/Sunset | None | f/16 | -2 Stops Underexposed Not Acceptable |
Get Film for this camera from Ebay - 120 film