MPP USERS CLUB - MICROTECHNICAL AND S92 LARGE FORMAT CAMERAS - Body Styles

Micro Technical Camera Mk1

Body Style A

Serial Numbers - Start at 1001 and continue to 2260 which is the last of the Mk III

This was the only MicroTechnical without a wideangle rack, as it lacked the links between the front and rear tracks. It is a scarce model today, and seldom seen, and was probably made at S.Nos below about 1200. (B.J.A.1949, 179(notice), 535(advert.) The detail of the front standard to track lock varies during the first 100 made.

.Early type has a lever to lock on the track. Later type has two finger grips to pull the standard out with and control the locking. Tracks may bear a batch number as they were made in matched sets.

Backs - All left the factory with plain backs for cut film and plate holders only. See footnote about register.

Polaroid Backs Compatibility - 500

Warning.

Track links can break and may not be replaced, so the best recognition point is the presence of the thin slots in the end of the tracks which fitted the links.THESE ARE ABSENT IN TRUE MK1 CAMERAS. Also look for a very low serial numbers.

Technical Information Links ....... Depth of Field Tables - Lens Boards - Back Knobs - Rear Extension Rods - Replacing Bellows - Register - Ground Glass Screens - Track Links

MicroTechnical Cameras Mk11 & Mk11R

Body Style A

Mk11

As Mk1 but with track links and a moving platform inside the body which acts as a wideangle rack. The track links were featured on the "Press" in the 1950 review, so were presumable being fitted during 1949. This is a scarce type but usually available if you look. (Advert B.J.A.1951, p489). A suggested lens fitting was the 135mm f4.8 Wray Lustrar in Epsilon shutter (B.J.A.1951, p250). Original Price £62.50, +rangefinder £8.50 retail extra. Focal plane shutter £15.00 with camera, £18 if subsequently fitted.(?for all these)

Mk11'R'

Body Style A

A version of the Mk11 with a little (possibly Ensign-derived) rangefinder mounted on TOP of the body box. This may not be functional now, but is genuinely scarce and should attract collectors. Publicity material just showed it as a version of the Mk11.

Backs - All left the factory with plain backs for cut film and plate holders only. See footnote about register.

Accessories included: Cut film holder, Plate holders, Cut film sheaths, Rangefinder, Lens panels, Distance scales, Tripods (Tripod 1 shown), Cases: (a)Camera and 6 holders, (b)Camera and Focal plane shutter and 6 holders.

Polaroid Backs Compatibility - 500

Technical Information Links ....... Depth of Field Tables - Lens Boards - Back Knobs - Rear Extension Rods - Replacing Bellows - Register - Ground Glass Screens - Track Links

MicroTechnical Camera Mk111

Body Style A

Production ends at Serial Number 2260

This was as Mk11 but with a rangefinder mounted on the side of the body box. The term Mk111 may be posthumous (ie not a factory one) as the instructions say "A rangefinder can be fitted to our Mk11 camera. The Mk11 rangefinder is not fitted with cams but will be matched to suit any particular lens chosen by the customer". This was written in the MkV1 era so it will refer to the side mounted rangefinder.

This Mk 111 is the normal type of Style A camera and is now the easiest to find, though not easy in nice condition. The rangefinder can be adjusted rather as the Kalart unit on the Graphic for Mk111.

MicroTechnical Camera Mk111 With Focal Plane Shutter

Body Style A

Focal Plane Unit fitted to a MkIII MicroTechnical Camera

The Focal Plane units seen are very like the MicroPress shutter, using the Graphic type of long blind cloth with several slots for different speeds. (A unique advert. lists a Wray version at the British Industries Fair in 30/04/1951, for speeds 1/10-1/800sec which was more compact and certainly different.) Both were also intended to be a factory fitted option as fitting involved remounting the rear of the bellows, and was intended to be used with longer lenses such as 180mm, as it added to the register.

Users should note it is heavy, bulky, and really best for tripod use. It was a accessory listed for the MkV1 and can be fitted to later bodies such as MkV11 but the all-black finish matches the early ones rather than the later ones. It is thought that the Focal Plain accessory was mainly sold on later Mk111 bodies and may even have sold this way after the MkV1 was on sale.

Backs - All models left the factory with plain backs for cut film and plate holders only. See footnote about register.

Polaroid Backs Compatibility - 500

Technical Information Links ....... Depth of Field Tables - Lens Boards - Back Knobs - Rear Extension Rods - Replacing Bellows - Register - Ground Glass Screens - Track Links

MicroTechnical Cameras Mk1V &V

These were experimental models, fitted with focal plane shutters.

It is likely that B.J.A.1950, p234, Advert.p505 shows one version of these (eg.Mk1V) and it is possible that the Micropress represents the other "missing number" (eg.MkV) at least in part.

No known examples of these survive.

A Wray focal plane shutter has been seen but was a bolt on device- comparison with the picture in the B.J.A. suggests that there it was partly built-in and had rather different speeds. Information on the Wray focal plane back is given at page 'Other Manufacturers'.

MicroTechnical Camera MkV1

Body Style B

Early examples had screw fitted rangefinder cams and a tripod socket offset to the front of the base. Later versions had the tripod bush centered to allow the fitting of a raised platform round the bush, and nurled finger wheel cam mounting. It is now uncertain when these changes took place and they may just be at the end of MkV1 production.

Variations:

(1) Position of tripod bush as above.

(2) Some early cameras have the anodized focussing tracks finished in a yellowish colour. This is not "just dirt" but may be either a manufacturing fault by the subcontractor for the anodizing or the effect of age on the finish. It occurs on early MkV1 and also on some Micropress cameras.

BACKS See footnote panel about register.

MicroTechnical MkV1 1/2

Body Style B

This was certainly not a factory designation, but these cameras occur since the MkV1 could be updated to the next model, either completely or partly. This was not always done at the factory, as parts could be bought and fitted, eg.by repairers or perhaps owners. The most common update was the fitting of the MkV11 International Back, which could be fitted relatively easily, especially if a new bellows was bought fitted to it. Updates kept their Serial Number, but probably should sell as MkV11 if fully converted. MkV1 is normally available if wanted but the production was lower than MkV11 and many were updated or broken to maintain later cameras so it is not always as easy to get as might be expected.

Backs - All models left the factory with plain backs for cut film and plate holders only. See footnote panel about register.

Polaroid Backs Compatibility - 500

** NOTE ** Some later Mk VI bodies were modified to Mk VII specification. Serial numbers are - 6000 - 7519

Polaroid Backs Compatibility - 550 / 545i / 550 / 405

Technical Information Links ....... Adjustment of Rangefinder - Rangefinder Cam Plates - Depth of Field Tables - Lens Boards - Back Knobs - Rear Extension Rods - Replacing Bellows - Register - Front Standard Tilt and Swing - Ground Glass Screens - Track Links

MicroTechnical MkV11 Body Style B Serial Numbers & Production - 7700 (1956) to c. 11764 (1962)
	This was essentially a MkV1 but with additional new features. The most important of these was the International back, the ground glass screen coming off by pressing the serrated bars above and below the screen frame and sliding sideways. It was also fitted with a tripod bush on the side under the strap, a bright finish finder shoe, a cable clamp, and interchangable cams with knurled wheel to allow their being changed. MkV11 sold well and is probably the easiest to find today and probably is the camera of choice for general use. It is an excellent camera of its type and relatively trouble free in use over long periods.(Adverts. B.J.A. 1958,p49, 1959,p46, 1960,p47; 1961,p43, Pelling and Cross, listed it 1962, p30. There was no MPP advert.1963) Two types of MkV11 were made and sell at the same prices:
Early cameras had a glossy emblem between the rails inside the baseboard, and usually have 4 small round feet on the bottom. Serial numbers are 7700 - 11764 but some MkVI cameras were modified to MkVII at numbers 6000 - 7519. Serial numbers are located under the rotating back - click on image above. Backs are rotated by turning against a spring loaded ball. About 800 bodies were produced each year. Later bodies have a cast metal logo on the base board and no feet. Variants were: Red MicroTechnical MkV11 The "Studio Model" with cherry red vynide outers, red bellows, grey crackle inside, and extra chrome finish on back. Scarce, it was made as occasional item over some period. Non-Rangefinder Bodies. Serial numbers are within the sequence in the Mk VII heading above. The price list usually offered the rangefinder as an extra, and it sold well. However some were sold without it for groundglass use only and are now rather sought after as they are lighter, and more compact. On buying, check that there are no holes from an old rangefinder which has been removed, as no-rangefinder cameras are scarce and may be a premium priced item if genuine. "Holes" probably reduce the value. Some accessories for MkV11 were as follows: Additional cam plates £1.00 each. Lens Panels £0.50 each. Wide angle lens panels £0.75 each. Slides, film or plate £2.50 each. Cut film adaptors £0.20 each. Quarter Plate adaptors £0.30 each. 9x12cm Adaptors £2.50 each.(Take S.M.S.holders into 5x4) Leather Case for MkV11 with 12 slides £12.50 Larger case for camera with flash + 12 slides £16.60 Sportsfinder for w/a, or Tele lenses, for 56x56mm,etc.to suit £3.50. Microflash MPP flash gun 3x1.5volt, £7.50 + £1.25 P.Tax MPP listed materials usable as 5x4 cut film, 5x4 plates, 5x4 Graphmatic Magazines, 9x12 plates,and cut film, 1/4plate plates and cut film, and 120 roll film for 6x9cm and 56x56mm- but did not then list Polaroid materials. Backs are standard International and register is standard also. See footnote panel about register. Polaroid Backs Compatibility - 550 / 545i / 550 / 405 Technical Information Links ....... Adjustment of Rangefinder - Rangefinder Cam Plates - Depth of Field Tables - Lens Boards -Back Knobs - Rear Extension Rods - Replacing Bellows - Register - Front Standard Tilt and Swing - Ground Glass Screens - Track Links
MicroTechnical Camera Mk VIII Body Style C Production - 1963 - 1988, Serial Nos. 12000 on.
	This model had a more rounded outline and brighter finish. Technically the major feature was a front standard with a new nodding movement, and a new type of International back. The bodies seem to have been built-up (Not cast) but were a very successful design in spite of it. They were again normally fitted with a rangefinder, but some were sold without it. The cams seem to be the same as the MkV11, but normally are marked with both lens and body numbers to ensure a long lived match. Review in USA 1965 at $418, no rangefinder, $455 with rangefinder, both without a lens. The Agent for USA was Burleigh Brooks.
Early cameras soon after No12010 have the front standard release grips at the ends of the standard. This is rare as it was found to be inconvenient and was very soon replaced with a better design. Normal type with the two pull-grips at the front. This is more convenient in use. Original colours were black only, but cameras do exist retrimmed with red and seemingly dark green Vynide, and this just may represent work on cameras returned for overhaul. The interior finish was not changed. Rangefinder Cam Plates carry the camera serial number in addition to other markings. See Rangefinder Cam Plates page for details. REGISTER See footnote panel about register. MkV111 Prices 03/1974: Camera less Rangefinder £237.50 Camera with Rangefinder £250.00 Fibre Carrying Case £15.65 Rollfilm Holder 6x9cm or 56x56mm. £30.00 Fidelity cut film holders £3.85 Additional focussing scales £4.75 Lens Panels, Flat £1.50 Lens Panels, Wide-Angle type with cone £2.45. The cone is described as a "forward mount". Grip is of the anatomical type. This is often found as an M.o.D.item in a MkV111 outfit but is possibly older. It is heavy but less anatomical than other makes: it fits to side of camera. Backs are standard International and register is standard also. Polaroid Backs Compatibility - 500 / 545 / 550 / 405 Technical Information Links ..... Adjustment of Rangefinder - Rangefinder Cam Plates - Depth of Field Tables - Lens Boards - - Rising Front Locking Mechanism - Replacing Bellows - Register - Ground Glass Screens - Track Links
MicroTechnical Camera S92
	This was the Ministry of Defence version of the MkV1, sold rather late in MkV1 production or during MkV11 production. It had all-black finish, the bright edges of the MkV1 body being in black enamel. It was fitted with a finder shoe of unique type, cable-release clamp, and a unique anti-premature closure device buried in the body box. All serial numbers begin 14A/ and are not in the normal MPP series. For detailed information see the MoD Cameras page.
. Since there was only limited production for the RAF, on a one-per-base count, the number made will not be very large (possibly 300-500?) and the camera will be scarcer than seems at present as a result of recent M.o.D.sales. Normally this type is available at present. Backs are the same as those for the MicroTechnical Mk VI but has a special register of 0.187 inch. See footnote panel about Register. Polaroid Backs Compatibility - No information. Technical Information Links ....... Adjustment of Rangefinder - Rangefinder Cam Plates - Depth of Field Tables - Lens Boards - Back Knobs - Rear Extension Rods - Replacing Bellows - Register - Front Standard Tilt and Swing - Ground Glass Screens - Track Links

- BODY STYLES & BELLOWS -

Style A

The earliest cameras were leather covered all over, and show only black leather when closed up.This style was used for the Mk 1-111 and the focal-plane and prototypic Mk1V/V cameras. Note that at least 4 versions - and perhaps as many as 7 versions- of camera are in this group of 1260 bodies, and it is evident that some at least will be really scarce. Additionally, many of these early types have suffered badly from damage to the leather, so a mint one is additionally hard to find. These early cameras have also been broken and used as a source of repair parts for later ones. Currently this scarcity is not reflected in their prices which seem unduly low.

Style B

This new body casting followed contemporary practice in using a synthetic Vynide covering, and sinking it into hollows in the otherwise white metal casting so that the body now had shiny metal corners, and the camera wore very much better. A new style rangefinder was fitted, coupled to the track through a cam bolted to the track on the right side. Initially these cams were retained by a slotted-head screw, but later a knurled finger wheel was substituted allowing changes of the cams in the field. The MkV1/Mk11 instructions mention the supply of 3 cam sets with the MkV1 surely early in its production so the screw fit may have been an option. The front standard had a new rotating movement and this allowed a dipping or nodding action if the camera was mounted on its side. The ground glass screen now had an all-metal cover/light shade, which is detachable. The MkV1 was advertised in B.J.A.1952, p509 so it must have been available in Autumn 1951, at least to the artist. Review as "New" in Photography 1952 by J.Sadovy.at £370.00, focal plane shutter £315.00, Rangefinder £310.00.

MkV1 Early examples had screw fitted rangefinder cams and a tripod socket offset to the front of the base. Later versions had the tripod bush centered to allow the fitting of a raised platform round the bush, and nurled finger wheel cam mounting. It is now uncertain when these changes took place and they may just be at the end of MkV1 production.

Variations:

(1) Position of tripod bush as above.

(2) Some early cameras have the anodized focussing tracks finished in a yellowish colour. This is not "just dirt" but may be either a manufacturing fault by the subcontractor for the anodizing or the effect of age on the finish. It occurs on early MkV1 and also on some Micropress cameras.

Style C (Mk VIII)

See Mk VIII Information.

Modified Bellows - All Models

A modified type of bellows has been introduced by Camera Bellows Ltd. of Birmingham, U.K. (April 2001) which give improved use of front standard movements (shifts) with wide angles lenses. This will be of particular interest to architectural photographers and others who use very wide angle lenses. Extension is however reduced to 220mm. Bellows are available in both black and red. Camera Bellows Ltd are able to supply a full range of replacement bellows for MPP cameras and offer a fitting service if required.

Contact Camera Bellows Ltd. direct for full information. Link at the 'Lots of Interesting Links' page.