8mm Forum: Help needed to use 8mm camera

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Posted by Paul Moriarty (Member # 4575) on January 18, 2016, 09:40 AM:

I have a film project coming up and want to film it in 8mm. I have just bought a Bolex Paillard B8 on ebay and want to know if there is someone near to where I live in East Sussex who would be willing to meet up and give me some tips on its use. I think there is someone from Hailsham (which is fairly close to me My postcode is TN19 7PX) on this forum who is also into valve equipment but I cannot remember his name. Can anyone help?

Posted by Maurice Leakey (Member # 916) on January 18, 2016, 10:04 AM:

Paul
You will find this book very interesting.
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Vintage-Bolex-8-B8-C8-L8-Cine-Camera-Guide-the-focus-press/111877501204?_trksid=p2047675.c100011.m1850&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%26 asc%3D20140107083358%26meid%3D15ac97c911184406a29eb9a4d5c6667c%26pid%3D100011%26rk%3D6%26rkt%3D9%26sd%3D161673633645

Posted by Paul Moriarty (Member # 4575) on January 19, 2016, 01:59 PM:

Thanks Maurice, i bought a copy yesterday. The B8L i bought on ebay will need the 12.5 lens replacing as it very hazy and dirty. I assume it would be easier and cheaper just to buy another lens on ebay that is described in very good terms than to try and find someone who may or may not be able to clean and polish the optics. In the instructions that came with the camera it says the camera should be lubricated every few years. Is that something you do to yours. Are there any folks left who work on these cameras? Between the interaction book and the Bolex guide I am gradually getting up to speed. Trying to get my head round operating the light meter at the moment. I imagine its all good fun …once you know what you are doing LOL Cheers Maurice

Posted by Bryan Chernick (Member # 1998) on January 19, 2016, 03:49 PM:

I have lubricated several Bolex cameras. The C8, B8, D8, and P models are all essentially the same when it comes to lubrication. If you are good with tools and working with small parts it's not very hard. The following links have the instructions.

Servicing a Bolex D8L

Lubricating a Bolex D8L

I wouldn't trust the light meter in the camera without checking it against a working light meter. There are several light meter apps for smart phones.

Posted by Maurice Leakey (Member # 916) on January 20, 2016, 02:30 AM:

Paul
The lens may be OK, the haze and dirt could be on the two external glasses. Have a go with lens cleaning liquid which should be applied with lens tissues.

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