1939 WW2 4x5 C-3 US ARMY AIR FORCES MILITARY GRAFLEX SPEED GRAPHIC + CASE

  

Here is a VERY rare version of the 4x5 large format Speed Graphic, a VERY EARLY WW2 VERSION of the US ARMY AIR FORCES Camera, Ground Type C-3. Nearly all of these are post 1942 but not this one. The camera itself is a 1939 Anniversary Model Speed Graphic from the second batch ever built (Oct 4 1939) although the USAAF contract plate is dated 1940.

Which is why there are still chrome parts on the camera, unlike the later all black WW2 versions. Both front and rear shutters appear to work very well, exactly as they should, although B and T on the front shutter hang open. The lens has some minor haze and one spot of very fine thread fungus near one edge.

Around the rear, the shutter curtain is nice and snappy, the ground glass and hood are excellent and all the leather covering is intact and nice. The bellows do have pinholes and would need to be replaced or repaired for use. Everything mechanical, including the rangefinder is working smoothly. This is the full cased military set except the original Graflex 3 cell flash handle. Both 5" and 7" reflectors are there, Crown No 1 wooden tripod complete with tilting platform and 6 double sided film holders.

You may never see another one of these versions in the case! Please look at all the photos for the condition.... A fantastic display item, or for use with a little work. Please be aware this item is very heavy.

The item "1939 WW2 4x5 C-3 US ARMY AIR FORCES MILITARY GRAFLEX SPEED GRAPHIC + CASE" is in sale since Saturday, February 15, 2020. This item is in the category "Cameras\Vintage Movie & Photography\Vintage Cameras\Folding Cameras".

The seller is "1952photog" and is located in Sawtell, NSW. This item can be shipped worldwide.