Bolex H-16EL "Death Star" Anamorphic Video Assisted Crystal Sync Monster Build!

Here is an intro video to my fully configured Bolex EL "Death Star" build. I have a DIY TTL Video Assist, Crystal Sync, Shoulder mounted, Servo Focus Servo Zoom and Servo Aperture. Including a DIY Electronic Viewfinder (EVF). The lens is a Vario-Switar 12.5-100 Zoom withe new SIRUI 1.25 Anamorphic adapter. This gives me a 16X9 1.66:1 aspect ratio from a standard 4:3 16mm frame.

[@gavrill00]

You're great, Mr. Cotto. I am actually struggling to rig my Beaulieu R16 for anamorphic. This video helped me to understand I am far from doing something great, but I am crafting everything by myself

[@jamarjones1744]

this was great. Awesome work!

[@stormcrow3642]

Awesome! So happy for you man.

[@Spectrumpicture]

Well done! Your next feat of design should be creating a sound barney with that setup! Can't wait to see your footage!

[@oldradiosnphonographs]

Wow that thing is tricked out! I got a REX5 model I’m very excited to use once it’s had it’s CLA.

[@timoheckmann1355]

wow that is very close to what I want to build out of my doiflex (thats a japan clone of the arriflex)... Very nice video!

[@mourningdovefilms]

Brilliant!

[@paulcotto]

I had to make it myself from the one that came with the lens.

[@Libsenth]

Wild.

[@trapgod4386]

INCREDIBLE GREAT FIND ! it will save me from converting my aaton to super 16 ! youre a genius ! Do you know if the adapter works on lenses that have under 67 filter thread size ? asking because on the sirui product website, it says it will work for the following filter thread (all to be converted to the adapter's 82) : 67, 72, 77 & 92 mm filter threads lenses I have an angenieux 9.5-57 and it has a 65 filter thread ! just the limit ! cheers and bravo again bro

[@paulcotto]

Thanks! You can use it on any lens that has 82mm or less filter thread if you buy the correct thread filter adapter. I would buy it and test it with film and if it does not work for you take advantage of the return policy of Amazon or B&H.

[@stonefuzzed]

@paulcotto Amazing setup! I am wondering, what adapters did you use to mount the anamorphic lens? I would like to achieve the same thing but having trouble to find the necessary adapters to make it work.

[@jftvrwk]

Love to see it, thanks! Also, how stable is the image of the bolex?

[@paulcotto]

The Bolex was used on many professional productions and is regarded as very stable.

[@omarlargueche6022]

Great build ! What are the parts for custom made TTL video assist ? Thanks 🙏🏼

[@citioalva]

Hi Paul, thanks for your videos, they are very good. I wanted to ask you a question, in your previous video you talk about an external 12 volt battery with a spiral cable. In this video you use another cable, do you still use that M12 power solution battery or do you use another type of battery like a V lock ?

[@paulcotto]

I use the M12 for 100’ and a larger battery for 400’. I made a custom brick battery of 10AA X 2 NiMh batteries.

[@andrewcollar4923]

Hey, Paul. This thing looks like a beast, and I’m jealous. Was wondering if you have a recommendation for a company that CLA’s Bolex 16mm cameras? I’ve found a couple but their prices seem exorbitant

[@paulcotto]

If it’s an EL the only place is Du-All camera. If it’s any other reflex then you should consider TCSfilm.com ask for Irwin Newman in the service department.

[@freddyfuentes556]

You are very skilled congratulations! Do you know someone who does a technical service for Bolex EL? Congratulations again!

[@paulcotto]

I sent mine to Du All Camera in NJ ,USA. They are the last ones that will work on the EL in the world.

[@stormcrow3642]

Have you ever looked into a speed booster for it? That would be so cool.

[@paulcotto]

I dont think they make a c mount speed booster.

[@huntergoetz3604]

Hey Paul, can you shoot some links to some of this gear. I am looking for the video tap eye piece

[@ytchannel1682]

Wow this is amazing! Would you consider ever selling your rigs?

[@paulcotto]

One Million Dollars ;)

[@kuluary8898]

how many mm is the lens in the viewfinder camera?

[@RoiRodriguez99]

Hello Paul, I also have an EL and I am looking for a power cable for V-mount battery. Do you know where could I find the connectors? (:

[@paulcotto]

The v mount battery puts out up to 17 volts DC which could damage the EL unless you use a 12 volt DC/DC regulator . You could ask Du-All camera to make one for you.

[@ytchannel1682]

Not so much the camera itself but the parts of the rig? Can you build one for my bolex? lol

[@assassingk]

Question, Is it possible for you to make and ship a 3D coupling to me for my bolex setup? I will compensate you for the costs of course! Also, where did you get the start stop sync bolex to Tilta cable? That is amazing! Great setup man

[@paulcotto]

Sorry, no But you could have one 3D printed buy a third party. Here is the 3D file>>> drive.google.com/file/d/1X3kh2YC8eWx-klkGpy4VgcOoEiznv1Oy/view?usp=share_link

[@assassingk]

@@paulcotto Awh man this means a lot to me, thank you so much for sharing this! You definitely have one of the best builds I have seen for sure. To circle back on the start stop cable, how did you go about doing that? Did you make a cable yourself? I own the Tilta Nucleus m kit as well, so it would be beautiful if you could point me in the right directions, thanks again!!!!!!

[@sydburd]

hey paul!! what is the model of this base plate?!

[@paulcotto]

SMALLRIG Quick Release Shoulder Plate for Sony VCT-14 Tripod Adapter with Rosettes - 2837

[@sydburd]

thank you for being so helpful! I'll always admire your rigs!@@paulcotto

[@chumleyk]

Why not super 16 converted?

[@paulcotto]

Because it costs $3000 USD to get the Suoer-16 mod and the anamorphic adapter works on all my other cameras.