Gnome Pixie Flex
Specification
| Manufacturer | : | Gnome |
|---|---|---|
| Produced | : | 1951 |
| Classification | : | Medium Format |
| Body Type | : | Pseudo Twin Lens Reflex |
| Construction | : | Metal |
| Film Type | : | 620 |
| Film Width | : | 62mm |
| Image Size | : | 2 x 2 in |
| No. of Images | : | 12 |
| Lens Type | : | Meniscus |
| Focal Length | : | 80 mm |
| Focus Type | : | Fixed |
| Focus Range | : | 10ft to inf |
| Aperture Type | : | Fixed |
| Aperture | : | f/20 |
| Shutter Type | : | Rotary |
| Shutter Speeds | : | B,I*(1/50 sec) |
| Size (w x h x d) | : | 88 x 120 x 96 mm |
| Size - hood up (w x h x d) | : | 88 x 165 x 96 mm |
| Weight | : | 620g |
| * Measured on this camera | ||
Art Deco Credentials
Limited: Minor and insubstantial
- produced after the main Art Deco period
- charming figure of eight front panel.
- alloy lens and viewfinder bezels
- chromed shutter release and winding knob
- symmetrical layout to front
Description
The Pixie Flex was manufactured in Wales, UK. It can be described as a pseudo twin lens reflex camera. It isn't a true TLR because the top lens is just part of the viewfinder and does not aid focussing. It takes twelve 5.3x5.6 cm images on 620 film. It has a leatherette covering to the metal body and a real leather strap.
It is a simple camera with a fixed focus viewing and objective lens. The viewfinder image is projected on to a large translucent glass screen on the top of the camera. There is a hood to protect the glass screen and to provide shade for viewing.
The shutter has both Instant and Bulb mode. The shutter function is changed by a small lever on the front of the camera. The chromed shutter release is on the top panel at the front. The shutter makes a reassuring loud 'clunk' when it is activated.
A chromed knob on the side is turned to release to back to load the film. The red window on the rear does not have a cover. There is no tripod mount.
How to Use
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 table assumes that the sun is at least 30 degrees above the horizon - that's 10am - 5pm on a summer's day (May-August) in the UK.
This camera has an aperture of f/20 and a shutter speed is 1/50s.
As the shutter speed is only 1/50s, it is advisable to try to hold the camera against a wall or other solid object. For quick snapshots, hold it firmly against your body.
Using ISO 100/125 film - shutter speed 1/50s
| Weather Conditions | Shadow Detail | Aperture | Exposure |
|---|---|---|---|
 SunnySnow/Sand | Dark with sharp edges | f/20 | +1 Stop Overexposed Acceptable |
| Sunny | Distinct | f/20 | Good |
 Slight Overcast | Soft around edges | f/20 | -1 Stop Underexposed Acceptable |
 Overcast | Barely visible | f/20 | -2 Stops Underexposed Unacceptable |
 Heavy Overcast | None | f/20 | -3 Stops Underexposed Unacceptable |
 Open Shade/Sunset | None | f/20 | -4 Stops Underexposed Unacceptable |