Bolex Paillard H16 Movie camera
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Expert
Selected by Rob ter Ellen
Over 35 years' experience specialising in cameras and optical equipment.
Estimate € 450 - € 550
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Description from the seller
1941-1943 – Paillard Bolex Swiss H16 16 mm Camera
The body of this camera is in good cosmetic condition. The faux leather covering is well preserved and shows only a few signs of use, including a circular mark left by the reverse arm of the leather carrying strap, as well as a few small scratches, probably caused by the winding crank. The polished aluminum parts are in good condition, with no oxidation, only a few slight marks on the top. The chrome elements show no rust. Overall, there are no signs of fungal contamination or damp traces.
The upper focusing viewfinder has a slight haze as well as a few particles that may hinder use. The side viewfinder is usable but also has a slight haze and some dust.
Viewfinder H16 F 27 mm / 75 mm / 15 mm: some dust, cosmetically clean for its age. The parallax correction mechanism works properly.
The winding lever and mainspring operate perfectly. The trigger, both in continuous shooting and frame-by-frame modes, functions normally. The mechanism turns with a steady, reasonably soft sound for its age. The frame counter advances normally and the unit works correctly at all speeds once the spring is wound. Frame-by-frame shooting is operational. The continuous operation lock is effective.
However, I could not test the reverse winding crank. The rotation of the objective turret is smooth and functions correctly. A cap is present on one of the C-mounts.
The serial number on the lid matches that of the body.
The camera is supplied with a handmade wooden exposure stand to display it easily. A 16 mm take-up reel is also inside the body.
No further testing was performed; the device has not been tested with a blank film. However, a test was carried out with an already exposed film, which confirmed that the film transport by the mechanism and the claw works correctly.
As with any camera from this period (1941, estimated based on its serial number), routine maintenance will likely be necessary to achieve optimal performance. Replacing the seal foams on the lid will be essential.
Lenses
(No lenses were tested for filming.)
SOM Berthiot Cinor P 25 mm f/1.8
Some dust.
Cosmetically clean for its age.
The focus and aperture rings need cleaning.
A full service is recommended.
Wollensak Cine Velostigmat 1 Inch (25 mm) f/1.5
Some dust.
Cosmetically showing signs of wear.
The focus and aperture rings need cleaning.
A full service is recommended.
Overall, this camera could perfectly be put back into service after routine maintenance and a revision of the lenses.
1941-1943 – Paillard Bolex Swiss H16 16 mm Camera
The body of this camera is in good cosmetic condition. The faux leather covering is well preserved and shows only a few signs of use, including a circular mark left by the reverse arm of the leather carrying strap, as well as a few small scratches, probably caused by the winding crank. The polished aluminum parts are in good condition, with no oxidation, only a few slight marks on the top. The chrome elements show no rust. Overall, there are no signs of fungal contamination or damp traces.
The upper focusing viewfinder has a slight haze as well as a few particles that may hinder use. The side viewfinder is usable but also has a slight haze and some dust.
Viewfinder H16 F 27 mm / 75 mm / 15 mm: some dust, cosmetically clean for its age. The parallax correction mechanism works properly.
The winding lever and mainspring operate perfectly. The trigger, both in continuous shooting and frame-by-frame modes, functions normally. The mechanism turns with a steady, reasonably soft sound for its age. The frame counter advances normally and the unit works correctly at all speeds once the spring is wound. Frame-by-frame shooting is operational. The continuous operation lock is effective.
However, I could not test the reverse winding crank. The rotation of the objective turret is smooth and functions correctly. A cap is present on one of the C-mounts.
The serial number on the lid matches that of the body.
The camera is supplied with a handmade wooden exposure stand to display it easily. A 16 mm take-up reel is also inside the body.
No further testing was performed; the device has not been tested with a blank film. However, a test was carried out with an already exposed film, which confirmed that the film transport by the mechanism and the claw works correctly.
As with any camera from this period (1941, estimated based on its serial number), routine maintenance will likely be necessary to achieve optimal performance. Replacing the seal foams on the lid will be essential.
Lenses
(No lenses were tested for filming.)
SOM Berthiot Cinor P 25 mm f/1.8
Some dust.
Cosmetically clean for its age.
The focus and aperture rings need cleaning.
A full service is recommended.
Wollensak Cine Velostigmat 1 Inch (25 mm) f/1.5
Some dust.
Cosmetically showing signs of wear.
The focus and aperture rings need cleaning.
A full service is recommended.
Overall, this camera could perfectly be put back into service after routine maintenance and a revision of the lenses.
Details
Era
1900-2000
Brand
Bolex
Model/type nr
Paillard H16
Physical condition
Good
Functional condition
Tested and working
Lens Mount Type
C-mount
Film type
16mm
Serial number
16156
Estimated period
1940-1950
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