I recommend the Besler 6x7, 23C?, and the omega B22. I find myself using the B22's for 35 and the Beseler for medium format.Ĭraigslist is definitely the way to go and patience is the key.

I like them, the B22's are easy to use, I just wait a few seconds for them to 'settle down' before I hit the print switch. I currently use a Beseler 4x5, an Omega B22 and a B22XL. I'm way ahead when just considering the lenses and retaining rings :) I make it a habit to look at everything close to me if it cheap and this time it paid off. I haven't even finished digging through the boxes yet. The only thing missing is a footswitch :( cylinders, thermometers, trays, timer, film clips, and much more. Easels including a 4 bladed Saunders, SS tanks and reels, grad. He included 3 boxes of other stuff including 2 Rodenstock Rodagon lenses. There was a Vivitar VI enlarger 2 miles from my work.

I read this thread at 8:30, checked my Craigslist newsgroup at 8:35. One of these older enlarging lenses from Durst, etc., should be available for ten bucks or so. It's actually pretty good for an older lens with a simple optical design. My Durst 606 also came with an old Wollensack enlarger for medium format. For that money or a bit more you can buy one of the better Schneiders new or like new. The Nikkor enlarging lenses are very good for the money, even the older series. These older condenser head enlargers usually require a set of variable contrast filters too. Unless you have a specific need for it you'll probably never use those accessories.

The 606 and other older Dursts also occasionally appear on ebay with doodads for copying, etc. Mine came without this opal sheet, but it would be easy to homebrew one using glass from a glass shop. The 606 also was equipped for use either with an 'opal' (frosted) enlarging bulb, or with an unfrosted tubular shaped lamp, which required a sheet of opal glass or plastic for diffusion. Cost aruond $60 a few years ago, should be cheaper now. Mine came with the original carrying case (it's more luggable than portable). You can often buy a 1960s vintage Durst 606 for well under $100 but, again, be sure it has all the accessories - lens holders and negative carrier, especially. It came with lens holders for printing medium format and 35mm. I have the M605, which is an excellent dichro head with built in filters which can be used for printing on variable contrast paper. The saucer shaped lens holders typical of Dursts can be a bit difficult to find and not cost effective to buy. The Dursts are excellent enlargers but make sure you get all the accessories.

Used photographic enlargers