Vredeborch Alka Box
Specification
| Manufacturer | : | Vredeborch |
|---|---|---|
| Produced | : | 1953 |
| Classification | : | Medium Format |
| Body Type | : | Box |
| Construction | : | Metal |
| Film Type | : | 120 |
| Film width | : | 62mm |
| Image Size | : | 2¼ x 3¼ in |
| No. of Images | : | 8 |
| Lens Type | : | Meniscus |
| Focus Type | : | Fixed |
| Focal Length | : | 90mm |
| Focus Range | : | 3m to inf. |
| Aperture Type | : | Multihole + yellow filter |
| Aperture | : | f/13, f/22 |
| Shutter Type | : | Rotary |
| Shutter Speeds | : | B,I*(1/40 sec) |
| Size (w x h x d) | : | 80 x 102 x 125 mm |
| Weight | : | 464g |
| * Measured on this camera | ||
Art Deco Credentials
Acceptable: Modest and restricted
- Produced after the main Art Deco period;
- Geometric Art Deco front plate;
- Fine textured pattern in leatherette covering;
- Chrome winder and embellishments;
Description
Alka Box was manufactured by Vredeborch GmbH, Nordenham, Germany. It is part of a series of medium format film box cameras made by this company. This model has a central strap whereas early models had a diagonal strap. Vredeborch produced cameras for other distributors based on the Vrede Box. This camera is almost identical to the Vrede Box. Simlar cameras were produced for Filmor, Fodor, G-M-Box, Haaga, Helios, Hanimex, Joy-Box, Manex, Monty, N-Box, Prinz Pilot, Photopia, Regia Box, Slomexa, Texar and Union.
The Alka Box camera has typical controls for this era. The shutter can be operated in Instant(I) or Timed(T) mode. A small tab can be used to switch to timed mode. When used in timed mode, the shutter can be locked open using a small switch. The camera also provides a connection for a cable release. The aperture can be set to f/13 or f/22 by a pull out tab. A knob on the front allows a yellow filter to be swung into place. The yellow filter is used to enhance skies on B/W film.
Film is advance using a turn-key and the frame number is viewed through a red window on the back. The red window does not have a cover. It has two brilliant viewfinders for both landscape and portrait mode. There are two tripod mounts allowing stabilization in portrait or landscape orientation.
How to Use
Find the User Manual for a similar model here:- Vrede Box Manual.
This camera takes 120 film which is easily available.
As the shutter speed is only 1/40s, it is advisable to use a tripod to get clear shake free images. However, holding it against a wall or other solid object would work as well. For quick snapshots, hold it firmly against your body.
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.
The tables assume that the sun is at least 30 degrees above the horizon - that's 10am - 5pm on a summers day (May - August) in the UK.
Remember that the exposure guide in the manual may not be helpful as it is based on the use of old film with a low ISO value.
Using ISO 100/125 film - shutter speed 1/40s
| Weather Conditions | Shadow Detail | Aperture | Exposure |
|---|---|---|---|
 SunnySnow/Sand | Dark with sharp edges | f/22 | +1 Stops Overexposed Acceptable |
| Sunny | Distinct | f/22 | Good |
 Slight Overcast | Soft around edges | f/13 | +1 Stop Overexposed Acceptable |
 Overcast | Barely visible | f/13 | Good |
 Heavy Overcast | None | f/13 | -1 Stop Underexposed Acceptable |
 Open Shade/Sunset | None | f/13 | -2 Stops Underexposed Not Acceptable |