Graflex Crown Graphic Special

The Crown Graphic Special is a professional 4×5 large format camera produced by Graflex from 1958 to 1973. As part of the Crown Graphic series, it features a more refined design compared to the standard Crown Graphic, with improvements such as a range-finder focusing system and a Graflok back for greater flexibility with film holders and accessories. The camera utilizes a focal plane shutter with speeds ranging from 1/10 to 1/1000 second, allowing photographers to work with a variety of lenses including Graflex's own Optar and Graflar series, as well as lenses from other manufacturers via standardized lens boards. The Crown Graphic Special represents the continuation of Graflex's commitment to providing reliable, high-quality equipment for professional photographers who required the exceptional image quality afforded by large format film.

This camera was particularly favored by architectural, commercial, and fine art photographers throughout its production run. Its combination of portability (relative to other 4x5 cameras), precise controls, and excellent build quality made it a workhorse for professionals who needed reliable performance in the field. The Crown Graphic Special maintained the traditional monorail design principles while incorporating practical refinements that made it more accessible to photographers than earlier technical cameras. Although not as revolutionary as some contemporary innovations, it stood as a testament to Graflex's engineering expertise and remained a dependable tool for image makers until the company ceased production in 1973.