Simplex Standard PROJECTOR SERIAL No. 43005
with BROCKLISS MONARC Arc Lamp Ser. No. 670.
Western Electric Sound Head type 1B Ser/No.703 A
Western Electric 709D Drive Universal Base
The original patent for the
picture head of this projector dates back to 1916. The
design has changed little. This projector is interesting
as an example of the method whereby the projector was
started and stopped by a Control Box (seen by the machine).
Whilst switching off through the Control box it did not
actually stop the projector and this was achieved by the
use of a ‘brake’ using the foot pedal fitted
on the stand. This projector is fitted with Western Electric
type 1B Sound head and a Brockliss Monarc arc lamp. Mounted
on a Western Electric Universal base.
The projector is complete
with a Control Box which can be seen by the side. The
projector operation was through this control box, which
was placed usually in front of the machine, for both starting
and stopping the projector. (see pedal & box). Simplex
were a very popular projector and a second one is in the
Curzon Collection in a different set-up. The actual date
of this projector is not known nor is its history of installation.
Many however were still to be found in independents up
and down the country until quite late in the last millennium.
A unique feature was the method of stopping the projector
which is explained on the pedal & box page.
The BROCKLISS MONARC Arc Lamp
is the one often found with the Simplex projector in British
cinemas A simple but effective arc lamp by a well respected
British manufacturer. This however is not an original
for this projector.
Control Box
The Curzon Collection would
like to hear from any projectionist who has experience
of operating these projectors.
The compact picture head of the Simplex
Standard which was enclosed by a glazed door. This compactness
however presents not so easy threading until much practice
has been gained. Seemingly a feature of most Simplex projectors.
A more interesting view of the projector is on the reverse
side where the large flywheel, drive motor and gearbox
with its flexible drive are mounted.
