Bell and Howell 8430 Super 8 movie camera

The Bell and Howell model 8430 is a simple manual zoom Super 8 camera from circa 1966. These early B&H cameras feature robust metal construction. It features an 11-35mm f1.9 zoom lens.

This camera is ideally suited for outdoor or brightly lit interior shooting (we don't recommend it for very dim indoor work). 

We believe this model is functionally identical to the more common model 8429 (same lens and chassis). 

Unlike most later Super 8 cameras, the B&H 8430 supports the full range of cartridge notches for film speed up to ASA/ISO 400, as shown on this page: https://web.archive.org/web/20170320041145/http://super8wiki.com/index.php/File:Cartridgenotchruler.jpg

Focusing is a tad trickier than later cameras but it's not too hard once you get the hang of it. As with nearly all super 8 cameras, for maximum sharpness, you need first to set the eyepiece to match your vision by zooming the lens to 35mm, focusing to infinity, pointing to a faraway (more than 50 feet) object and turning the eyepiece until it looks sharp. For critical focusing, a tape or laser measure can be helpful but with good light this isn't necessary (because of the depth of field). 

Battery info

This camera requires 4 AA alkaline batteries (not included). The AA batteries power both the motor and the metering (no special light meter battery is needed). 

Condition notes

The camera is very good cosmetic and functional condition. We confirmed the motor is operating smoothly by running a cartridge through it (we did not get it developed however) and we observed the light meter/aperture is responding correctly to light. We also verified the film plane focus using an autocollimator on running film. This model originally included the fun-looking-but-awkward-to-use detachable grip like the model 8429 but the original owner discarded it. 

This camera's serial number is 18983. We always use detailed photos of the actual camera for sale.

Specifications

(for model 8429, source: https://www.filmkorn.org/super8data )

• silent super 8 cartridge
• lens: B&H Zoom f: 1.9 \ F: 11-35 mm
• zooming ratio: 3.2x
• focusing: manual, aerial
• zooming: manual
• viewfinder: single-lens reflex with adjustable eyepiece
• viewfinder information: film-end signal, under-exposure warning signal
• exposure: auto exposure control; TTL Electric Eye, CdS photocell
• film speed: auto between 10 and 400 ASA
• filming speed: 18 fps, single frame
• shutter opening angle: <180 degrees
• sound: no
• remote control socket: no
• cable release socket: yes
• accessory socket: screw type, 1/4"
• film counter: 1-15 m
• handle: detachable
• battery check button: no
• film drive motor: DC micromotor
• power source: 4 x AA batteries only
• weight: 900 g
• dimensions: 65 x 155 x 185 mm
• tripod socket: 1/4"
• made in Japan by Bell & Howell