Éclair Cameflex 16/35mm camera

Éclair Cameflex 16-35mm camera, Serial No1635-296. Based on the Cameflex Standard (CM3) it has three pulldown claws (two for 35mm, one for 16mm) in the film gate. Includes three Cooke Speed Panchro lenses; 2 x 75mm Serial No's 4547533 and 468797 and 1 x 100mm Serial No 39333.

Cameflex 16/35mm camera made by Etablissement Eclair, France in 1946.

The camera is unique as it can be used for either 35mm or 16mm filming, with the insertion of a 16mm film gate into the camera body and using the appropriate film magazine. The magazines could be changed very quickly and with the camera motor still running.

The camera is electrically-driven and can run at speeds between 8 and 48 frames/second, regulated on a tachometer. It has a three-lens turret with CA mount ports fitted with; a Taylor, Taylor and Hobson Cooke Speed Panchro 75mm f/2 (T2.3) lens, Serial No 4547533; a second Taylor, Taylor and Hobson Cooke Speed Panchro 75mm f/2 (T2.3) lens, Serial No 468797; and a Cooke Speed Panchro 100mm f/2.5 (T2.8) lens Serial No 39333.

Viewing is through the lens, using a reflex mirror shutter. The shutter is adjustable between 35-200 degrees, marked with an angle scale along the mirror edge. The viewfinder rotates 360 degrees on its axis and is lockable in four 90 degree stages. The 400 foot coaxial magazine, Serial No V34, is easily interchangeable. Used at BBC Ealing studios.