ORWO Color NC 19 (120, 1990)

Description

ORWO Color NC 19: an unpredictable colour negative from East Germany

ORWO Color NC 19 is a 120 format colour negative film made at Filmfabrik Wolfen in East Germany. Fresh stock was rated at 19 DIN, approximately ISO 64. This batch expired in 1990, so a practical starting exposure of about ISO 6 is recommended.

Old NC 19 is interesting for experimentation rather than accurate colour. Expect possible strong colour shifts, muted contrast, fog, backing-paper marks and pronounced vintage texture. Cross-processing in C-41 can produce unusual green, emerald and cool tones, but the outcome depends heavily on how each roll was stored.

Processing and exposure

• fresh box speed: ISO 64 / 19 DIN; suggested starting point for this batch: ISO 6;
• the original process is ORWO C-5168, which is now largely unavailable;
• C-41 should be treated as experimental cross-processing and agreed with the lab in advance;
• with 120 film, frame count depends on the camera: commonly 8, 10, 12 or 16.

This is collectible, experimental film with no guaranteed result. Shoot one roll as a test, give it generous exposure and do not use it for irreplaceable photographs.