[rollei_list] Re: Equipment cases

All good points.  I've taken to using foam ( rubber?) drink holders as inserts 
for lenses and slim bodies in musette-type canvas bags.  Good protection and 
bag stays slim.
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Allen Zak 
  To: rollei_list@xxxxxxxxxxxxx 
  Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2007 9:09 AM
  Subject: [rollei_list] Re: Benser cases


  While the Omnica was well made and cleverly customized for various camera 
systems, it shared the same drawback with all cases of the era in that it was 
heavy and stiff. There was always this alien piece of luggage bouncing on the 
hip, especially troublesome in situations where it was necessary to move fast. 
I respected the Omnica but didn't like it for that reason. Several other 
options, including musette and gas mask bags, didn't protected the equipment 
well enough. 

  Domke changed all that with a pliable canvas construction, affording easy 
access, protecting the equipment and conformable to the body. The design was at 
its best with an outfit that consisted of several 35 mm camera bodies (or 
digital equivalents), lenses and accessories, which is what most PJs carry, and 
it made obsolete the finely crafted but clumsy leather bags previously 
considered best of breed. After more than 3 decades of use, I still find it an 
ideal carriage for most of my "serious" photography. 

  Rolleiography is another matter. Soft canvas doesn't seem a good fit for MF 
equipment, but I find joy with lightweight nylon and other high tech materials 
reinforced with foam rubber. It is somewhat but not as flexible as canvas, 
offering a bit more protection at less weight than leather. My Rollei equipment 
fits perfectly into a LowePro Mini-magnum bag as if it were custom made; 3.5F 
(with or without prism), lens shade, yellow filter, + 1 Rolleinar, light meter, 
and film. I proselytize on its behalf. ;-)

  Allen Zak 

  On Oct 23, 2007, at 8:34 PM, Jerry Laderberg wrote:


    I always thought a great case to work out of in the 1950/60's was the 
Omnica.



      ----- Original Message -----
      From: Allen Zak 
      To: rollei_list@xxxxxxxxxxxxx 
      Sent: Tuesday, October 23, 2007 2:10 PM
      Subject: [rollei_list] Re: e: speaking of war photography


      Several years later, he hooked up with Leica, during which time he 
designed the Benser case for M and accessories. It was good for transporting 
gear, not so much for actually working out of it. IMHO, there wasn't a decent 
carryall until Domke came up with one in the late 60s. However, I'm sure a 
Benser would be a good collectable.

      Allen Zak

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