Crafting Vision: The Ondu Eikan 8x10 Takes Center Stage
A Photographer's Personal Quest: The Birth of Eikan 8x10
Elvis Halilović, the creative mind behind Ondu, has unveiled his latest masterpiece, the Ondu Eikan 8x10" camera. This lightweight, handmade large-format field camera is a realization of Halilović's long-held dream. His profound interest in wet plate photography fueled the creation of a camera tailored to his exacting standards, embodying his personal vision for an 8x10 model. He expresses that its acceptance by others is secondary to his own satisfaction with the design.
Years in the Making: The Eikan 8x10's Evolution
The concept for the Eikan 8x10 had been germinating in Halilović's mind for many years, predating even the launch of the smaller Eikan 4x5" camera in 2023. As a photographer, carpenter, and camera designer, he sought to push the boundaries of 8x10 camera design without external constraints. This unhurried approach allowed him approximately seven to eight months of dedicated design and preparation, culminating in a product that perfectly matched his initial vision. An earlier prototype from 2018 didn't meet his aesthetic expectations, resembling existing models too closely. It wasn't until a hiking trip years later that a distinct design inspiration struck him, leading to a quick sketch on his phone that laid the groundwork for the current Eikan 8x10.
Marrying Art and Engineering: Ondu's Design Philosophy
Halilović, who studied industrial design, emphasizes a unique philosophy for Ondu: to fuse traditional craftsmanship, modern design, and cutting-edge technology. He aims for cameras that are not merely technical instruments but also aesthetically pleasing works of art. This approach distinguishes Ondu from other large-format camera manufacturers, who often prioritize functionality over visual appeal. Initially, Ondu focused on building geodesic domes, but Halilović's innovative spirit naturally led him to camera design.
Innovative Construction: Lightweight and Robust
Achieving a relatively light weight of approximately 3.5 kilograms (7.7 pounds) for the Eikan 8x10" was a significant design challenge. Halilović accomplished this by integrating CNC machining, laser cutting, aluminum, and 3D-printed components. While 3D-printed parts are used for specific carriers, the camera's main frame and adjustment knobs are crafted from durable wood and metal. Halilović collaborates with a network of about 15 different suppliers, including specialists in metalwork and ground glass, to ensure the highest quality in every component of Ondu cameras.
Niche Appeal: The Market for 8x10 Photography
Having been involved in analog camera production for over a decade, Halilović is keenly aware of the resurgence in analog photography, particularly in smaller formats. He acknowledges that an 8x10" camera like the Eikan caters to a very specific, niche market. Many of his large-format customers are wet plate photographers, a group he estimates to be only a few thousand worldwide. This specialization means the Eikan 8x10" is not expected to achieve widespread commercial popularity but rather to serve a dedicated community of enthusiasts.
Designed for Adventure: Field and Studio Versatility
Halilović's vision for the Eikan 8x10" extends beyond the studio. By creating a compact and lightweight design, he hopes to inspire photographers to take their large-format work into unconventional locations, such as remote mountainous regions. The camera is designed to preserve the immersive experience of 8x10 photography—including the large ground glass, the deliberate pace of shooting, and the remarkable detail of the negatives—within a portable and robust framework suitable for both outdoor and indoor use.
Meticulous Craftsmanship: Details and Materials
The Eikan 8x10" features a foldable design with a secure rear vertical lock. It is compatible with standard sheet film holders and incorporates permanent magnets for stable bellows attachment. The camera's construction combines powder-coated aluminum with high-quality European walnut, with Halilović personally selecting each piece of wood to ensure both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. The Eikan 8x10" is a functional piece of art, poised to enable photographers worldwide to create their own masterpieces upon its September arrival.
Availability and Future Outlook
The Ondu Eikan 8x10" is currently available for preorder, with an initial price of €2,500 for the first 20 units until June 30th, after which the price will increase to €3,050. Deliveries are expected to commence in mid-to-late September. Concurrently, Halilović is phasing out Ondu's pinhole camera line, citing a diminished passion for their production and the increasing difficulty of maintaining accessible pricing due to the precision and time required for their manufacture. Despite this shift, he values the heartfelt messages and creative works shared by pinhole camera users over the years, which have served as significant motivators.