In Loving And Living Memory Of KTTV…Jim Diaz Restorations<\/p>\n
I just got the pictures in from our friend Jim Diaz in California. He has a passion for KTTV’s history and in the process of writing a book on the station’s history, but in the mean time has restored one of his TK 31s as a replica of the early years. Here are his comments: <\/p>\n
Attached are three photographs of my \u201ccosmetically\u201d restored RCA TK-31A. The TK-31A is one of two that I have. It is the first to be restored with the KTTV Channel 11, Los Angeles, California, markings. The second TK-31A will be restored after the first of the year.<\/p>\n
Please note that the TK-31A is equipped with the standard three (3) lens complement issued when originally manufactured: Kodak Ektanon 50mm, 90mm and 135mm. It also has the optional Ilex 8 1\/2\u201d lens. It is mounted on an early version of the Baughman Spider (without the mechanical height adjustment and wheel extensions, which were offered later – of which I have two). It is equipped with a Houston Fearless Cradle Head for pan and tilt operation.<\/p>\n
In addition to the two TK-31A\u2019s, my collection includes an RCA TK-30A, which also needs some restoration work. After restoration, the TK-30A will be mounted on either an O\u2019Connor wooden Tripod or a Houston Fearless TD-3 Pedestal. Or, I might mount it on one of three Houston Fearless TD-11A Metal Tripods, each equipped with the TD-15A Tripod Dolly. <\/p>\n
Also, I have an RCA TK-46 and TK-47, both equipped with Fujinon Zoom lenses. The TK-46 and TK-47 will be mounted on a TVP P-50 Pedestal. In addition, I have two working RCA \/ Houston Fearless TD-9B Pedestals. In the lens department, I have three each of the Zoomar Super-Universal and Studio Zoom lenses. <\/p>\n
As these other items become more presentable, I will send photographs as well.<\/p>\n
Happy Holidays! And, best regards. Jim Diaz<\/p>\n
Thanks Jim and keep us posted. Seeing this in color is interesting…who new they used yellow? Enjoy and share! -Bobby Ellerbee<\/p>\n