This is one of those cameras that seemed all the rage during its hype days but then disappeared into oblivion and nobody ever talks about it anymore. The Bolex D16 was an attempt to create a Bolex-style digital cinema camera in 2012.
The goal was to build a raw-capable video camera for under $10,000. Back then, raw video was rare. Today, it’s very common, so the folks at Alt Cine built their own modern-day version using tech from today. And they’re giving away all the plans so you can build your own.
What was Bolex D16 and what happened?
The idea of the Bolex D16 in 2012 was great. RED had only just started to become a thing – and wasn’t even close to a Nikon acquisition – and the digital cinema industry as a whole was still in relative infancy. Or perhaps it was just about to become a teenager.
Either way, a raw-capable video camera with a Super 16-sized sensor for less than $10,000? Sign me up! Things didn’t quite go as planned for Bolex, however, as this video from Frame Voyager explains.
A Bolex D16 for 2024
The present-day DIY Bolex D16 “Replica” is a very interesting mashup of parts. At its core is a Blackmagic Micro Studio Camera. So, you can shoot up to 4K at 60fps with something like the BMMSC 4K G2 ($995). Beyond this, as the Micro Studio Camera has no display of its own, an HDMI monitor is attached.
This provides the basic functionality of the camera, while everything else is mostly to change the form factor and feel of using it. But there are a couple of 15mm rails on top that you could use to attach various things such as microphones or a field recorder.
Alt Cine hasn’t released the files just yet, although they say they are planning to do so soon. In an upcoming build video, they’ll be walking us through the entire process, and releasing the STL files for the 3D printed body parts at that time.
They’re also looking into different display options to help streamline the build for those who want to have a go at making their own. I have to admit, the idea is intriguing!
If sticking a camera in a custom housing isn’t for you, and you’d prefer to build your own from the ground up, be sure to check out CinePi. It’s an open-source cinema camera utilising the Raspberry Pi. It shoots 2K footage with 12-bit raw video capabilities on a Super 8 sized sensor.
