Horseman 45FA (1985)
A compact 4x5 large format field camera introduced in October 1985 by Horseman, built for travel and landscape photography.
Overview
The Horseman 45FA is a 4x5 large format technical field camera made by Horseman, a brand under Komamura Corporation of Kyoto, Japan. It was sold as a fine art and field camera for photographers who wanted a portable but precise tool for landscape and travel work. It came out in October 1985 and sat at the top of Horseman's lineup, about 50% more expensive than the 45HD. It is no longer in production, but large format shooters still look for it. Users describe it as a primary field camera and a preferred alternative to models like the Chamonix and Toyo 45A.
Specifications
| Type | 4 x 5" technical camera |
| Folded dimensions | Varies by source: 178mm (H) x 164mm (W) x 97mm (D) (scribd manual); 172mm (H) x 172mm (W) x 102mm (D) (kamerastore); 173mm (H) x 164mm (W) x 97mm (D) (bnphoto) |
| Weight | Varies by source: 2330g (5.1 lbs) (scribd manual, Ewald Vorberg); 2156g (kamerastore); 2000g (4.4 lbs) (bnphoto) |
| Extension | 72mm (2.8") |
| Lensboard | 80 x 80mm Horseman Technical Type |
Design
The 45FA is a foldable metal camera with a design concept similar to the Linhof Technika. It stresses portability and structural rigidity. It takes a standard 80x80mm lens board that fits Copal shutters #0, #1, and #3, and it supports optional 22mm extension lens boards. The bellows are critical to operation. Replacements are available from third-party sellers, and users stress keeping them light-tight.
Context
The 45FA was marketed as a high-end field camera for traveling and landscape photographers who cared about precision and build quality. It is similar in size to established models like the Linhof Technika, though lighter at 2330g against the Technika's 3160g. It was seen as a step up from the more affordable Horseman 45HD. By August 2024, Kenko confirmed the 45FA was no longer in production. Kenko still makes other analog cameras.
Market
The 45FA has held a steady place in the used market. Listings run from $750 to $830 for well-kept bodies with light-tight bellows and clean ground glass. A 2004 forum post noted an asking price of $1200, so it was a premium purchase even then. Aftermarket lens boards are widely available, including 3D-printed options, and bellows replacements can be sourced via eBay. Active user discussions and real-world use in fine art photography keep it collectible.
eBay Listings
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