8mm Forum: My first Projector

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Posted by Joshua Kelly (Member # 3547) on 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

Posted by Hugh Thompson Scott (Member # 2922) on 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.

Posted by Joshua Kelly (Member # 3547) on February 15, 2013, 09:51 AM:

I am for now looking at a starter projector an then graduating up to sound. I like silent films.

Posted by Bryan Chernick (Member # 1998) on 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 by Bill Phelps (Member # 1431) on 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.

Bill [Smile]

Posted by Joshua Kelly (Member # 3547) on February 18, 2013, 03:29 PM:

Bought the m8 today will post some photos tonight looks amazing and got two reels and an editor and splicer

Posted by Pasquale DAlessio (Member # 2052) on February 18, 2013, 03:32 PM:

Josh

WELCOME TO THE FORUM!!!!

PatD

Posted by Bryan Chernick (Member # 1998) on 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.

Posted by Joshua Kelly (Member # 3547) on February 18, 2013, 06:08 PM:

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 by Paul Adsett (Member # 25) on 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! [Smile]

Posted by Joshua Kelly (Member # 3547) on 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 [Smile]

still surfing the web now hopefully will find more about it

Posted by Hugh Thompson Scott (Member # 2922) on February 19, 2013, 07:47 AM:

Get yourself some back issues of cine magazines Joshua,there is
much to be learned.........and enjoyed.

Posted by Joshua Kelly (Member # 3547) on February 21, 2013, 12:10 PM:

Where can you get this magazine? Got my first film in the mail so exccited!

[ February 21, 2013, 10:38 PM: Message edited by: Joshua Kelly ]

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