Following the success of Wista 45 Technical Cameras with the superb features
required for technical cameras, Wista introduced another series of Field 4x5 format
wooden cameras for those photographers who favor the beauty of wood and its
versatile functions.
Among the many wooden cameras in the market, Wista Field 45 cameras have a
unique feel. This is because none of the shiny metal parts are plated but coated with
clear varnish to retain the original beauty of the brass. No metal parts are used in the
joints of the wooden parts so that the total design concept of the camera has a feeling
of simplicity without any gaudiness.
For example, in the case of the Cherrywood cameras, skilled craftsmen in one of the
prefectures of Japan which is famous for Cherrywood, selects the wood and makes
housing sets (frames,brackets and boards) which are lacquered at a crafts workshop
in Tokyo. Even though each set consisting of various wooden parts for a camera are
lacquered separately, it is amazing to see how well they fit together.
The superb result of such precision workmanship by expert craftsmen is only
produced by using the finest materials and requires no showy ornamentation.
Among the many wooden cameras in the market, Wista cameras are more interesting
than others because of the wider choice of wood available. Wista has three kinds of
wooden camera, friendly vermilion Cherrywood, dignified Rosewood and Ebony,
with its beautiful grain which matches die casting in strength. Also,red bellows are
available for the Rosewood cameras for those who are specially interested in the
color of their cameras.
As regard to the functions required by professional photographers who use advanced
techniques for field work such as tilt,rise,swing and shift,the Wista Field 45 SW
Rosewood camera has a mechanism for the interchangeability of bellows.This
enables the use of a wide range of telephoto and close up accessories.
Note the notch which sets the brace into a neutral position. Even if the locking knobs
are not tightened whilst taking pictures, you do not have to worry about movement as
long as the shafts of the knobs are in the notches. The horizontal and vertical
adjustments made on completion with test charts are done with the knobs loosened.
From the developmental stage of these cameras, the same standard of precision
machining has been used as with die cast bodies. Wista Field 45-‡U Cherry and
Rosewood cameras have all the basic functions of the Wista Field 45DX cameras
except for the back shift and,being durable and portable,are the ideal cameras for
students and beginners. Needless to say, all Wista cameras have a unique ground
glass with bright fresnel screen.
Also the wooden tripod, developed around the same time, which is made of Chinese
Quince helps to absorb camera movement due to wind when engaged in outdoor
field work.
