posted February 15, 2013 08:31 AM
Ok I'm lookimg at getting my first Projector tomorrow and would like some advice. What would the best bang or purchase for my money I have a 50$ budget (not including the films). These are all working by the way. 1. Bolex M8 home movie projector - $25 2. Bell and Howell Auto Load model 256 AB - $35 3. Regal Keystone k-109 - $50
Or should I fork out the extra money and get a Chinon sp300 - $75
Posts: 3063
From: Gt. Clifton,Cumbria,England
Registered: Jan 2012
posted February 15, 2013 09:05 AM
Hello Joshua, that's a loaded question, it all depends on what you want the projector for, are you sticking to silent film, do you want to graduate to sound and can you still get lamps readily and cheaply for you projector of choice.
Posts: 654
From: Bothell, WA, USA
Registered: Mar 2010
posted February 15, 2013 10:35 AM
Joshua, Those are all Regular 8mm projectors, they will not play Super 8 film. If that is what you want I would recommend the Bolex M8. Second on your list would be the Keystone K 109. They are both very well built projectors, I have one of each and they are my two favorite 8mm projectors. Make sure they are in good working condition, that is the most important thing. That is a great price for the Bolex, even if they were priced the same I would still go for the Bolex over the Keystone.
I have also owned the Bell & Howell model you listed but I try to avoid auto load projectors, they can damage film easier.
posted February 15, 2013 05:11 PM
Bolex M8! For that price I'd buy it even if I wasn't going to use it. I got one about a year ago for $20 and it's the best $20 I ever spent.
Posts: 654
From: Bothell, WA, USA
Registered: Mar 2010
posted February 18, 2013 03:54 PM
Good choice Joshua. Make sure to oil it before you start using it. There are several little holes marked in red. These feed oil to wicks that keep important parts lubricated. There is one on the back where the take-up reel attaches and one on top. I don't have my projector in front of me right now, there may be more than that. Use mineral oil, I use sewing machine oil, keep adding it until you can feed about 6 drops. This will soak the wick enough to get oil to the critical parts. If it starts making a funny noise shut it off immediately, it likely needs more oil. If you keep running it while it's making noise you will damage it. It could take a few days for the wicks to get saturated with oil if they are dry.
Here she is gonna oil her up and wait till my movies come in. The whole sale was a the projector and a BAIA film previewer/editor and splicer for $25. I'm super happy!
Also just ordered two more 8mm films 1. Disney's Three for Breakfast 2. Merrie Melodies a.a.p. presents Rattled Rooster
posted February 18, 2013 08:01 PM
What a gorgeous looking machine you have there Joshua. Do you realize that this machine sold for about 6 weeks of the average working mans wages when I was growing up in the UK in the 1950's? It was the highest quality and most desirable 8mm projector of its day. And here you have aquired it for a pittance!
-------------------- The best of all worlds- 8mm, super 8mm, 9.5mm, and HD Digital Projection, Elmo GS1200 f1.0 2-blade Eumig S938 Stereo f1.0 Ektar Panasonic PT-AE4000U digital pj
posted February 18, 2013 10:51 PM
I had no idea I've been trying to find another but there was none on eBay and I don't know where else to look being new at this still surfing the web now hopefully will find more about it