Research Question: Fuji Cinema Film Stock Development Timeline (1955-1984) in comparison to Eastman

[Erik Krambeck]

Hi everyone,

I'm currently researching the historical development of Fujicolor cinema negative film stocks, particularly focusing on the evolution from the mid-1950s through the 1980s.

I've been able to piece together some information, but I'm hoping you would be able to help fill in some gaps or correct any inaccuracies.

The information is compiled from Wikipedia and the website “https://filmcolors.org”

What I've Found So Far:

Early Development (1955-1972):

• 1955: Fujicolor 25 ASA (Type 8511)
• 1958: Fujicolor ?? ASA (Type 8512)
• 1965: Fujicolor 50 ASA (Type 8513)
• 1965: Fujicolor ?? ASA (Type 8514) - improved gradation and color reproduction
• 1969: Full compatibility with Kodak processing achieved
• 1972: Fujicolor 80 ASA (Type 8516)

The "A" (Ace) Series Era:

• 1977: Fujicolor 100T (Type 8517) - Fuji's first 100 ASA tungsten film
•  ????:  Fujicolor A 125T (Type 8511) 
• 1980: Fujicolor A 250T (Type 8518) - world's first 250 ASA cinema negative
• 1984: Fujicolor AX 500T (Type 8514) - ultra high-speed film
• 1988: Fujicolor F-250D 

For comparison, the development milestones at Eastmen:

• 1952        Eastman 25T (5248)
• 1959        Eastman 50T (5250)
• 1968        Eastman 100T (5254)
• 1981        Eastman 250T (5293)
• 1983        Eastman 400T (5294)
• 1987        Eastman 250D (5297)
• 1989        Eastman EXR 500T (5296)

Specific Questions:

1. Can anyone confirm the exact introduction date of the Fujicolor A 125T (8511)? 
2. Can you confirm the information listed so far?

I found the information that the German movie “Das Boot” by Wolfgang Petersen used the 250 ASA Fuji material and so it was possible to shoot in the closed submarine set with Practicals. What examples of movies can you think of that made use of the higher sensitivity for the first time?

Thanks in advance for sharing your knowledge!

Greetings Erik

 

[Rob Lieberman]

Just skimmed through recent Ebay postings and see that a 400' roll of 8515 recently sold

Fujicolor 8515

[Erik Krambeck]

@Rob Lieberman Thank you for your reply!  

The "8515" I found here: https://filmcolors.org/timeline-entry/17555/

1969 - 1972    Fujicolor (8515) 

So it seems the first negative film, after the compatibility with Kodak processing in 1969.

[Joerg Polzfusz]

Maybe you can find details in Fuji‘s history: https://web.archive.org/web/20150518124117/http://www.fujifilm.co.jp/history/f1965.html

Not sure whether there’s a more recent version on Fuji’s website.