Balda Juwella 6.3
Specification
| Manufacturer | : | Balda |
|---|---|---|
| Produced | : | 1936 |
| Classification | : | Medium Format |
| Body Type | : | Folding Bed |
| Bellows Deployment | : | Self Erecting |
| Construction | : | Metal |
| Film Type | : | 120 |
| Film Width | : | 62mm |
| ImageSize | : | 2¼ x 3¼ in |
| No. of Images | : | 8 |
| Lens Type | : | Juwella Anastigmat |
| Focal Length | : | 105mm |
| Focus Type | : | Variable |
| Focal Range | : | 2m - inf. |
| Aperture Type | : | Iris |
| Aperture | : | f/6.3 - f/32 |
| Shutter Type | : | 2 Leaf |
| Shutter Speeds | : | T,B,1/25,1/50,1/100 sec |
| Size Closed (w x h x d) | : | 87 x 160 x 35 mm |
| Size Open (w x h x d) | : | 87 x 160 x 134 mm |
| Weight | : | 615g |
Art Deco Credentials
Significant: Pronounced and self evident
- Produced during the main Art Deco period.
- Diamond pattern in chrome on black enamel on faceplate.
- Ornate chrome struts.
- Curvilinear body design.
- Body covered in ribbed leatherette.
- Chrome outline to body.
- Ornate chrome winder.
- Chrome table stand and tripod socket.
- Chrome and black enamel brilliant finder
Description
The Juwella is a folding camera made by Balda in the 1930s. It takes 6 x 9 cm images on 120 roll film. The camera is self-erecting, with a button to release the front next to the film winding key. The lens is a 10.5 cm, f/6.3 Juwella Anastigmat. The focus is adjustable down to two metres. It has an everset shutter with speeds 1/25 - 1/100 second, plus 'B' and 'T'. This camera has a keyhole shaped clasp mounted on the front, just above the front door, which holds the end of a cable release to provide a body-mounted shutter release.
The main viewfinder is a double frame type. There is also a brilliant finder mounted on the lens standard, which swivels for horizontal and vertical use. The film compartment opens with a small sliding latch, marked with an arrow, under the carrying strap. In the back, there are swing-out holders for the spools. The camera has a 3/8 inch tripod mount.
On this model, the Art Deco face plate has been partially obscured by a plate showing focussing distance. Other models show the full design because the focussing marks are on the front lens surround.
How to Use
Shutter speeds are 1/25s, 1/50s and 1/100s although the accuracy is not guaranteed. The aperture range is f/6.3 to f/32
If you don't want to bother with an exposure meter, follow the guide shown. It is based on the 'Sunny 16' rule. Film is so forgiving and will produce acceptable results even when overexposed by 2 or 3 stops or underexposed by 1 stop.
Remember that the exposure guide in the camera user manual may not be helpful as it is based on the use of old film with a low ISO value.
The tables assume that the sun is at least 30 degrees above the horizon - that's 10am - 5pm on a summer's day in the UK.
If you are not sure about the light level, err on the side of overexposure - i.e. assume the smaller f number.
Where there is a choice, a larger f number will give a larger depth of field.
For the slower speeds, you may need a tripod to stop blur through shake.
Using ISO 100/125 film
| Weather Conditions | Shadow Detail | Shutter Speed (s) | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1/25 | 1/50 | 1/100 | ||
 SunnySnow/Sand | Dark with sharp edges | - | f/32 | f/22 |
| Sunny | Distinct | f/32 | f/22 | f/16 |
 Slight Overcast | Soft around edges | f/22 | f/16 | f/11 |
 Overcast | Barely visible | f/16 | f/11 | f/8 |
 Heavy Overcast | None | f/11 | f/8 | f/6.3 |
 Open Shade/Sunset | None | f/8 | f/6.3 | - |