Elicon Ultradrive 600 35mm Animation Stand Optical Film Printer Various Modules

Elicon Ultradrive 600 35mm Animation Stand Optical Film Printer Various Modules

The Elicon Ultradrive 600 is a 35mm animation stand optical film printer — a specialized piece of motion picture production equipment used to create optical effects, duplicate and composite film frames, and produce titles and animation on 35mm motion picture film stock. The system combines a precision film transport mechanism with a variable-speed drive, exposure controls, camera auto-stop, and follow-focus modules, all integrated into a single self-contained floor-standing unit on a wheeled cabinet.

Specifications & What's Included

• Brand: Elicon
• Model: Ultradrive 600
• Film format: 35mm motion picture film
• Overall dimensions: 39" W x 24" D x 75" H
• Approximate weight: 375 lbs
• Mounted on heavy-duty wheeled casters
• Speed control: variable frames per minute (counter visible set to 240 FPM), forward and reverse slew
• Drive modes: Single Frame, Continuous, 8-Perf
• Buckle stop safety circuit
• Camera Auto Stop module: LED counter display, Preset, Set, Clear, and Auto Stop controls
• Camera Follow Focus module with Enlarge/Reduce analog meter
• Powerstat variable autotransformer (Superior Electric Co.) for light source intensity control, scaled 0–100
• Logarithmic/linear exposure control dial with open-position markings and center aperture port
• Simpson alternating current milliammeter, 0–200 mA range
• Film transport column with toothed sprocket gears, drive pulleys, and film gate assembly
• Dual lower film reels and single upper reel
• Side-panel power toggle switch with red indicator and two locking DIN-style connectors
• Open base cabinet housing motor assembly, power components, ribbon cables, and wiring harness
• Various modules included as shown in photos
• Special freight shipping required — contact us for a quote or to arrange local pickup

Applications

Animation stand optical printers like the Elicon Ultradrive 600 were central tools in professional film production facilities from the 1960s through the 1990s, before digital compositing replaced optical effects work. They were used by optical houses, animation studios, and film labs to create dissolves, fades, wipes, freeze frames, slow motion, title cards, and multi-layer composites — effects that today are produced in post-production software but were once achieved entirely in-camera on precision mechanical stands. The Ultradrive 600 was aimed at professional animation and effects work requiring repeatable, motorized camera movements synchronized to the film transport. These machines are now rare survivors of a pre-digital filmmaking era, and their remaining value lies primarily in their precision mechanical components, optical assemblies, and control electronics — sought by film archivists, collectors, working optical printers in specialty labs, and restoration specialists. This is a significant and uncommon piece of classic motion picture production history.