Paillard Bolex B8L (1958)
An 8mm wind-up cine camera introduced in 1958, notable for including a built-in exposure meter.
Overview
The Paillard Bolex B8L is an 8mm film camera introduced in 1958 by Paillard, a Swiss manufacturer. It was designed for use with 25-foot daylight loading spools, exposing one half of the film width per run. The B8L was succeeded by the B8LA in 1961. It is recognized as one of the first Bolex models to feature a built-in exposure meter, marking a step forward in user-friendly cine camera design.
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 features a built-in exposure meter and a two-lens turret mount, with a highly polished duraluminium body covered in black leathercloth, reflecting Bolex’s precision engineering and Swiss craftsmanship.
eBay Listings
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.