Maco ORT 25c

The Maco ORT 25c is a black and white film. It was offered by the German Hans O. Mahn & Co. KG. In the meantime, it is no longer in the photo retailer’s range.

The ORT25 uses a thin-layered document emulsion with traditional cubic crystal technology and orthochromatic sensitization.

The ISO values/film speed are not standardized due to the lack of industry standards for orthochromatically sensitized document films. However, it is recommended to start with an exposure setting of ISO 25/15° (based on a light measurement with the meter pointing from the subject to the camera).

The ORT25 is particularly suitable for reproducing documents and X-ray images to create black and white and blue slides. Its high sharpness and resolution also make it suitable for general graphic purposes, special effects, and photographic halftone applications. Its characteristics make it ideal for archival purposes.

The film’s coating structure (from top to bottom) consists of a protective layer, light-sensitive emulsion, an anti-halo layer (AHU, which fades during wet processing), and the clear base. The grain size is RMS (x 1000): 6.0, and the resolution is 350 lines/mm at a contrast of 1000:1.

Film Development

The ORT 25c is a classic black and white film that requires special processing in a true black and white developer. The development can be done either by a photo lab or you have the option to develop it yourself using the appropriate photo chemistry. Depending on the film developer you choose, the resulting images can vary significantly.

Film development can be carried out with various developers, such as LABOR PARTNER LP-docufine for high contrast, LP-LITH for high contrast, LP-GRAIN for lower contrast, and AGFA REFINAL for lower contrast. Additionally, the LABOR PARTNER LP-docufine LC can be used for halftone photography.

Calculation of the development solution
How much development solution do you need?

Unfortunately, specific instructions for developing the film are not available for all developers. Therefore, it is necessary to gradually achieve satisfactory results through experimentation. The film strips exposed with the captured images are the result of the development process. It is common to make prints or digitize them as the next step.

Digitization

For digital processing of photos, it is recommended to digitize the film strips using a scanner. There are various options for digitizing different film formats. Some document scanners even offer the capability to digitize negatives. After digitization, the files can be shared on various social media platforms or produced in printed form.

Availability and Formats

The black and white film was available for 35mm and medium format cameras. It was also available as sheet film in sizes: 6.5 x 9 cm, 9 x 12 cm, 4 x 5″, 13 x 18 cm, 5 x 7″, 18 x 24 cm, and 8 x 10″.

New stock of this film is no longer available. The production of the Maco film has been discontinued.

Storage

The film should be stored in a cool, dry place. After freezing, unopened packs should be allowed to warm up for about 2 hours. Exposed films should be developed soon.