Cambo SC 2
The Cambo SC 2 is also written SC-2, and sometimes called the SC-2 Basic. It's a 4×5 monorail view camera from the Dutch maker's Classic Series. It's a straightforward studio workhorse. A 21.3-inch indexed monorail carries the front and rear standards, with the full set of movements - tilt, swing, rise/fall, and shift - on large, easy-to-read knobs. The back is a reversible ground glass with a Graflok-style international mount, and the lens board uses Cambo's bayonet system. It folds up reasonably for travel and works with most current Cambo accessories, which is a big reason these keep turning up on the used market.
The record on the SC 2 is thin on dates. No production years or original price are documented. The reputation is consistent, though. Dealers describe it as durable, easy to maintain, and an affordable way into large format. One seller noted that the left side front standard stop was missing on their example, but it didn't affect functionality. A Camley Photographic listing called it "affordable large format" with the classic Cambo metal construction. A practical note from the APHOG forum says adapting a DSLR as a digital back is possible and useful for tilt/shift experimentation, though less suited to ordinary shooting. One user fitted a Nikon mount via an inexpensive adapter from China for around €100, versus €350-500 from European suppliers.
Known specs, such as they are:
- 4×5 film format, monorail design
- 21.3″ indexed monorail; 52–54 cm rail versions seen
- Full movements: tilt, swing, rise/fall, shift on front and rear standards
- Reversible ground glass back, Graflok-style international mount
- Bayonet-mount lens board (adaptable to Nikon or M42)
- Fine focus knob; "multiple exposure" feature
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