THREADING : Automatic threading and loop forming. The end of the film is simply placed in a channel leading to the feed sprocket. The release is pressed and the film is then automatically threaded throughout the entire mechanism. MOTOR : Constant speed, spring motor mechanism; governor controlled. Large winding handle folds downward and attaches to camera when not in use.
FILTER SLOT : Built-in slot holds a gelatin filter behind the taking lens and in front of the shutter. VARIABLE SPEED : 12, 16, 18, 24, 32, 48 and 64 frames per second. VARIABLE SHUTTER : 133 degree variable shutter; operated manually to decrease exposure time, or with accessory Rexofader to accomplish fade-ins and fade-outs. This mechanism may be disengaged, if desired, by simply moving a lever. FRAME COUNTER : Twin dial counts frames individually and in total; Adds frames in forward motion and subtracts when film is wound backwards. Dial may be reset manually at any time. SINGLE FRAME : Time lapse and animation is possible by using the side release button or an accessory cable release and adapter; I-T lever allows for timed or instantaneous single exposures. MANUAL REWIND : Clutch disengages spring motor and permits forward movement and backwind without running down the spring; allows for dissolves and superimposition.
The viewfinder has some dirt inside; I attempted to remove the saddle before I realized there were nuts on the back side, with 2 below the internal plate. I was able to get one rethreaded, but not the other. The screw will be included. I cannot hear it moving around, so it may be lodged somewhere out of the way. The turret can be removed quite easily by first removing the cover, then the 4 screws holding the turret in place. It lifts out, with just a slight tilt to fit under the viewfinder. I did this to gain access to the various prisms of the reflex viewfinder, allowing me to clean those. It improved the viewfinder image somewhat, but additional cleaning is still needed. The camera had a 100' roll of film inside, so I was able to do several test runs at various speeds.
In general, the speed remaining fairly constant, but there is a noticeable slowing just before the spring is fully wound down and the camera stops. I would attribute this to age and the need for a full cleaning, lubrication and adjustment (CLA). I didn't notice any gumming of the lubricants, but after 54 years, a CLA is in order. All features of the camera work as designed.
The rubber eyepiece is in good shape; no need to replace that. Body leather also good to go. Three (3) filter holders are included (minus one clamp), along with a manual winding lever for. Five (5) lenses are included with this camera. SOM Berthiot CINOR 10mm f1.9.
SOM Berthiot CINOR P 25mm f1.8. Kern-Paillar YVAR 15mm f2.8. Soligor ELITAR 1 f1.5. Wollensak RAPTAR 6 f4.5 Cine Telephoto. All lenses have reasonably clean and clear glass; no obvious fungus, scratches or other problems.
All aperture and focus rings move (some more easily than others), and remain in place when set. Use will help loosen any stiffness in the rings. The Wollensak lens has a hood, and there is some loss of chrome around the front edge. While it could be used "as-is", I would recommend. A full CLA of the camera body.
It dates to 1966 (the REX 5 model wouldn't be released until 1967), so it may have been 54 years since its last (original) servicing! This set is priced to sell! Don't miss out on a great deal! The item "Bolex H16 REX 5 Body, 5 Lenses, Accessories!
Priced to Sell" is in sale since Monday, June 1, 2020. This item is in the category "Cameras & Photo\Vintage Movie & Photography\Vintage Cameras\Movie Cameras". The seller is "kirkle_3" and is located in Bloomington, Indiana.
This item can be shipped worldwide.
- Model: H16 REX 5
- Country/Region of Manufacture: Switzerland
- Type: Reflex
- Color: Black
- Film Format: 16mm
- Brand: Bolex