Widelux

Widelux model F VI

The Widelux is a fully mechanical swing-lens panoramic camera first developed in Japan in 1948, with both 35mm (the F6, F7 and F8 models) and medium-format (1500) models available. The WIDELUX cameras manage this trick because of a 26mm lens pivoting on an axis. This pivoting lens allows for some special effects not available with traditional cameras. As of 2006, the current model for 35mm is the F8. There are important differences between the F and 1500 series cameras. The 35mm cameras have a set focus (5 ft to infinity), whereas the 1500 Widelux can focus at any of seven settings. The 35mm cameras have three shutter speeds, 1/15, 1/125 and 1/250 of a second, whereas the 1500 Widelux has shutter speeds of 1/8, 1/60 and 1/125 of a second. The F series cover a 140 degree view, whereas the 1500 series covers a slightly wider area (150 degree view). Finally, the 1500 Widelux, like most other medium format cameras, has a shutter that must be cocked before the camera will fire. The Widelux has been used on some NASA missions for its 140° coverage.

The widelux trademark has still a lot of fans and users: one of them is the actor/photographer Jeff Bridges who published a book of his panoramic pictures in 2004.

Cameras with similar functions include the Noblex and Horizon.

External links

• Widelux serial number data base