OConnor Launches Innovative Camera Support System

OConnor has unveiled a new camera support system that combines the precision and versatility of the company's fluid heads with the unique speed of flowtech's carbon-fiber tripod technology.

The system, which pairs the Ultimate 1040 fluid head with the flowtech100 tripod, allows professional camera operators to move from heavier to lighter payload camera setups quickly and without compromise.

Now fitted with OConnor's popular large Euro Plate as standard, the Ultimate 1040 allows for greater head capacity than its 1030 predecessor, bringing the maximum payload at 5 inches center of gravity from 35 pounds up to 45 pounds (20 kilograms) while retaining the same performance and ergonomic features found in the signature 1030.

The Ultimate 1040 is made of high-performance magnesium and aluminum alloys with stainless steel, and the head is finished with genuine carbon fiber to match the modern, sleek look of the flowtech100 tripod. The head also features the same construction found in larger OConnor heads, including wide tilt bearings for extra stability even at the highest payloads.

OConnor's Ultimate 1040 head offers a wealth of features including the stepless, ultra-smooth pan-and-tilt fluid drag specifically enhanced to provide ultimate control and stability, as well as the patented OConnor Sinusoidal Counterbalance system that provides true, accurate balance at any point in the tilt range. Operators will appreciate that the system counterbalances down to zero, a welcome advantage given the trend to lighter-weight cameras.

"Featuring the widest payload in its class, our Ultimate 1040 fluid head can now accommodate a payload of up to 45 pounds and is built to deliver consistent results on even the most demanding sets," said Steve Turner, product manager, OConnor. "Combining the new Ultimate 1040 with flowtech means camera operators can pan and tilt a camera on set with the pinpoint precision of larger film fluid heads and with the speed and agility of run-and-gun crews. And most important, the OConnor 'Feel the difference' ultra-smooth movement remains the same, regardless of payload."

Featuring the world's fastest-deploying legs, the flowtech100 tripod provides cinematographers with a fast, lightweight, and easy-to-setup camera support system. Revolutionary quick-release brakes allow the tripod's legs to be deployed instantly and simultaneously, and they adjust automatically to the ground's surface — saving operators from having to bend over and manually adjust multiple brakes on each leg. The tripod's versatile hinge-lock mechanism combined with its durable rubber feet allow for the capture of extremely low and high shots, regardless of space limitations or terrain. Exceptional torsional stiffness also ensures the flowtech100 will not twist during camera-panning movements.

OConnor's Ultimate 1040 – flowtech100 system, including rubber feet, carry handle, and case, will be available in October and is priced at $10,800. The Ultimate 1040 head is also available separately and is priced at $7,850, and the flowtech100 tripod sells separately for $2,675.

Cinematographers and camera operators will have the opportunity to experience OConnor's innovative system for the first time at IBC 2019 in Amsterdam at Stand 12.E65.