Paillard Bolex B8L (1958)
An 8mm wind-up cine camera introduced in 1958. It was notable for its built-in exposure meter.
Overview
The Paillard Bolex B8L is an 8mm film camera that Paillard, a Swiss manufacturer, introduced in 1958. It was designed for 25-foot daylight loading spools and exposes one half of the film width per run. The B8LA replaced it in 1961. It was one of the first Bolex models with a built-in exposure meter.
Specifications
| Film format | Standard 8 mm |
| Film capacity | 25ft daylight loading spools |
| Film process | Half-width exposure per run |
| Power source | Wind-Up |
| Frame rates | 12–64 fps |
| Shutter angle | Up to 165° |
| Footage counter | Yes |
| Single-frame capability | Yes |
| Lens mount | Two-lens turret |
| Exposure meter | Built-in |
| ASA range | 12 to 1600 |
| Dimensions | 5" x 3 1/2" x 2" |
| Body material | Duraluminium covered in black leathercloth |
Design
The B8L has a built-in exposure meter and a two-lens turret mount. The body is highly polished duraluminium covered in black leathercloth.
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