I was wondering what is the best way to keep a 25year old Linhof 2x3 bellows intact and supple.I'ts in fine condition now and I want to keep it that way as long as possible. Would it need to be oiled or treated in any way periodically to maintain current condition? Thanks, E.D.L.

-- Emile de Leon (Knightpeople@msn.com), August 31, 2001

Answers

Bob Solomon or someone can undoubtedly answer this better that I can but, FWIW, the first step is to determine what material your bellows is made of. I believe Linhof switched from leather to synthetic at some point but I'm not sure when and for what cameras. The type of material will govern the treatment, if any. I have read that Armorall, which purports to preserve both leather and vinyl, isn't good for camera bellows because it tends to cause the stitching to deteriorate.

-- Brian Ellis (bellis60@earthlink.net), August 31, 2001.

Linhof service is 973 808 9626. Ask them. BTW, how do you know it is 25 years old?

-- Bob Salomon (bob@hpmarketingcorp.com), August 31, 2001.

...it's a tech V 2x3 #5031129...I'm just estimating.

-- e (Knightpeople@msn.com), August 31, 2001.