The Curzon Community Cinema, est. 1912
 
 
 
    
 
 
 
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Curzon Collection: 16 mm Gaumont British L516


GAUMONT-BRITISH L516 16mm sound

The most famous of WW2 projectors. Slightly different to the L16 this projector has a 110volt 500watt lamp which is unusual in that it has a three pin bayonet cap and is burned downwards thus not only producing the projection light but also a light source for the sound optics. This is achieved by collecting the light via a ‘glass rod’ directing the light on to the sound optics. (Similar to the principle used with the Pathescope Vox 9.5mm sound projector).

The projector is simple to thread and kind to film with its side tensioned curved film path. It has no still picture device. With the projector there is a resistance jokingly called a ‘toast rack’. and a large speaker which was mains energised for smoothing of the amplifier. This particular projector has a pedigree. Like many of this model it saw extensive war service particularly with the Royal & Merchant Navies. It was recovered from a destroyer due for scrapping in 1951 and restored to use. It has given many hours of service since. The only drawback is the light output as the gathering optics are utility. A good conversion is however possible. 1938