GFM News Archive

08.04.11

To enable an immediate change of camera position from high to low or under-slung to over-slung , GFM have designed the new GF-HiLo Swivel Brackets. The brackets are fitted with speed clamps with automatic engage and disengage locking mechanisms so that when released, the brackets can be rotated and fixed at each 10 degree angle allowing 360° rotation.

Both brackets also have 2 female Euro-mounts for fitting either an extension tube or Euro-adapter mount.

The brackets can be used on most dollies and the modular concept accepts not only standard GFM bowl and Mitchell mounts but also accessories from other manufacturers.

27.10.10

The GF-3D Combi-rig is a solution for providing a stable mount for large camera packages and 3D Rigs on a centre post dolly. The 80mm diameter tubes from the standard GFM Combi-rig can be used in combination with the new "double tube" top and bottom mounts.

GF-3D Combi-rig, "double tube" top & bottom mounts & Extension tube

27.04.10

The GF-Secondo Dolly is an economical, cost conscious electromechanical dolly system, complimenting the GF-Primo Dolly range.

It utilizes the same rotatable and removable electromechanical column, with Cmotion electronics, as the GF-Primo Dolly and is available with wireless control as an option.

Rotatable & removable column  Selection of steering mode    Cabled hand control unit       Telescopic steering rod   

The GF-Secondo base dolly has 3 steering modes (crab, front and rear wheel). The steering shift is easily made by simply flicking an adjustment switch on each of the 4 wheels. A unique feature is that even in 2 wheel steering mode the dolly can be steered from any of the 4 wheels (even from the locked off wheels).

Battery connection 'drop & go'  Multifunctional turnstile mount    GFM platform system          high/low platform     

The GF-Secondo Dolly boasts a range of user friendly features such as the multifunctional turnstile mount and platform system, "drop & go" battery connection, rotatable & removable column, intuitive hcu operation, position markers, jib arm etc. The complete range of accessories are, for both GFM dollies, interchangeable.
An up-grade of the GF-Secondo to GF-Primo's wireless control and central steering selector is available.

09.02.10

As well as a standard Mitchell 3 Way Leveller, GFM also produces a range of Off-set Euro to Mitchell Arms available with 3 or 4 Way Levellers. Machined from high grade aluminium and then surface hardened results in a strong, long lasting camera mount. They can be used as stand-alone units or with the Off-set Euro to Euro Brackets and Extension Tubes to increase the combination possibilities by adding height and angle adjustability.

Off-Set Mitchell 4 Way Leveller

Off-Set Mitchell 3 Way Leveller

Mitchell 3 Way Leveller

Off-Set Bracket Euro to Euro

Extension tube

Euro-adapter to Mitchell plate

27.10.09

Over the last few months GFM has been busy delivering the first series of GF-Primo Dollies to clients in Germany and abroad. It has to be said, especially in times as tough as these, that it's extremely rewarding and motivating to experience the positive feedback and reactions of practically everyone who has seen or had the chance to work with the new GF-Primo Dolly.
One such experience came from the Munich based Key Grip, Emil Kaczur. In May and June 2009, he had the opportunity to work with the GF-Primo Dolly on a ZDF TV production "Flemming 2009" with DOP Jochen Stäblein. The GF-Primo was supplied by Klaus Daubenberger (gripdepot - Cologne).

“I'm used to with working with conventional dollies, and getting used to the GF-Primo Dolly required no learning or readdressing of my working style. In fact it was quite the opposite and in comparison, from the very beginning the GF-Primo Dolly proved to be more effective, innovative and extremely user friendly.

The GF-Primo Dolly relieves the Grips workload immensely. The wireless hand control unit can be used everywhere, especially from the steering rod where it can be operated perfectly without the usual interfering cable.
The steering rod has flexible height and angle adjustment ranging from high to low, therefore allowing the Grip to find the best possible position for steering and pushing. It means moving the dolly doesn't require bending over and twisting but allows an upright and overseeing steering of the dolly in every aspect -also on tight sets.

The display on the hand control unit is well arranged and clearly laid out showing a complete range of information such as battery voltage, column speed, ramp, lift range and height in a choice of mm, imperial and percentage. Even the display's contrast can be adjusted to suit different lighting situations.

The dolly platforms are actually fun to work with. The selection of threaded holes (12mm & 3/8") and non-threaded holes (28 & 25mm) make them multi-functional and very useful, encouraging one to use and try out different variations. And because the platforms can be combined and locked to each other, attaching lights, cameras, low shot plates, monitors, seats etc is really easy. The platforms are lightweight and can be mounted quietly (!!!) and the integrated carry grips make them easy to carry.

The new "Big Wheels" allow an easy and problem free transport of the dolly over all types of ground surfaces and what's fantastic is they keep the track wheels clean. And with the "Big Wheels" it's also possible to drive onto the track and leave them on when working on track. The studio wheels work perfectly on all types of floors such as (wooden and stone floors, tiles, pvc, needle felt and carpets).

Another highlight is the central gearbox for selecting the different steering modes of front, crab and rear as it's easy to operate and can be switched over with one hand.

The low position of the Euro-adapter on the column is another great advantage as it, in a lot of cases, eliminates the need for using a low rig.

Changing the batteries is fast easy and completely no problem. In comparison to conventional batteries (!) the GFM batteries are lighter so mounting them is no trouble whatsoever. They last much longer than what I'm generally used to. The display shows me the precise battery voltage when I'm working and also indicates when they need to be exchanged.

DOP Jochen Stäblein didn't need much convincing about the advantages of the GF-Primo Dolly as he was thrilled with the functionality, design and handling - as was the Camera Assistant, Lars Richter and 2nd Camera Operator, Niv Abootalebi. Which expressed itself in daily discussions as to who would be allowed work with the GFM Dolly today...

My conclusion: the GF-Primo is a trend setting piece of equipment that, within the near future will establish itself as the professional standard. Keep it up GFM!

Best wishes Emil Kaczur”

26.03.09

Jürgen Zarda of the Grip House near Frankfurt took delivery of the first GF-Primo Dolly in early December 2008. The dolly went straight onto a feature that Jürgen was key gripping for DOP Johannes Kirchlechner (BVK). We’re happy to report that the reaction to the GF-Primo Dolly was extremely positive. Here’s what Jürgen has to say:

“The advantage of the central steering came into play at once as we were shooting some scenes indoors on a tiled floor. It was much easier to manoeuvre the GF-Primo and stay straight on moves than with the other dollies I’m used to. To change from one steering mode to the other is just one twist of a switch. No messing around with wheel locking bars etc.”

“The wireless radio controlled hand unit is another great feature. No cable getting in the way and no signal disturbances whatsoever. And I can monitor movement, battery status etc on the hand control’s display. Because of its ergonomic design it feels really comfortable in the hand.

The GF-Primo’s turnstile mount is unique and like the rest of the dolly, GFM have really approached this part with creativity and flexibility in mind. In addition to the standard Euro-adapter on top, it also accepts 4 fixtures for either seats or rigging adapters such as the off-set arms, low rigs etc. On this shoot it was brilliant as we were shooting some scenes with 2 cameras. The low camera position and the fact that the turnstile mount can be set up to pan the operator and camera synchronic was very much appreciated by DOP Johannes”.

“The platform system is really solid and easy to mount. The hand grips on the wheel arms double function as locks for the 4 platforms. Great idea! But the best feature is the selection of holes on the platforms which I can use for attaching adapters and rigging purposes. Mounting monitors, sun shades, lighting stands, whatever! And I can combine them to build a step or go low. Very helpful when using a Mini Jib or Low Rig.”

“Changing the batteries is totally simple with the “drop and go” system. Each one has a carrying grip making the batteries easy to handle.
The column’s movement is smooth, quiet and fast. The starting position is really low. With the turnstile mount I can get the camera even lower, quicker and easier than before.
All in all I’m really impressed and delighted with the results. The GF-Primo performs beautifully.”

18.12.08

Grip Factory Munich are proud to present the latest in electromechanical dolly technology. In conjunction with cmotion who are responsible for the design and development of the electronic & control unit, the new GF-Primo and GF-Secondo dollies are available for general delivery as of February 2009.

The GF-Primo Dolly is effectively the deluxe model with extra features that are not available with the GF-Secondo Dolly.

By offering 2 models, GFM is in the position to offer very attractive packages to their clients. The GF-Secondo is priced at approximately 20% below the GF-Primo. This range of choice allows the client to choose which dolly is the right one for them. A decision based on technical requirements and of course, budget restraints.

The main differences between the 2 dollies are; on the GF-Primo there is a fifth central steering position, a central gearbox for selecting either front, rear or crab steering modes and the GF-Primo's column can be separated from the base dolly. These features are not available with the GF-Secondo.

Both models have identical mechanical columns, electronics as well as hand control units. The GF-Primo comes with wireless, radio control as a standard whereas with the GF-Secondo, wireless control is an additional option. All essential data is displayed on the hand control's screen. The operator can monitor battery consumption and status, column limits and markers, motor temperature etc. The ergonomic design is distinctive and lies easy in the operator's hand providing complete operational comfort.

Naturally there are plenty more convincing features:

• Low starting position of 70cm / 27", with a lift range of 70cm / 27" extends to a max height of 140cm / 54" in a quick 2.5 seconds
• The battery connection is a "drop and go" system where the batteries are simply slotted into position, secured and ready to go
• Both the column of the GF-Primo and the GF-Secondo are rotatable
• The turnstile mount accepts 4 adapters to provide a wider range of seating and camera positions e.g. 2 persons, 2 cameras
• The stable, multi-functional platform set is machined to provide a wide selection of holes for mounting various adapters such as lighting stands, monitor holders, seat arm extensions etc as well as providing a solid base for the operators to stand on
• To ensure a perfect dolly move the GF-Primo has a fifth steering and pushing position. A unique type of telescopic and inclining steering rod provides better manoeuvrability and control of the dolly. Steering mode selection is a simple matter of twisting a switch

24.11.08

Simon Hawkins of Fluid Motion Films Ltd. based in Auckland, New Zealand has recently taken delivery of a GF-8 Xten. There are a number of standard GF-8's already in the country but Simon´s is the first full, GF-8 Xten.

For Simon it's another first as about 4 years ago he was at the forefront in NZ, purchasing and owning outright a Chapman Hybrid III dolly. Something he's quietly proud of.

"Over the years I've worked with most cranes. I was very impressed by the versatility of the GF-8. It's lightweight but extremely stable. Getting into remote locations isn't such a killer for the crew and last minute set up changes are much easier to manage. We can have it set up on my Hybrid as a jib arm and within minutes rebuild it on its base to either carry the DP or a remote head system.

The separate transport trolley also makes complete sense as all the parts are stored safely when I don't need them. When we're working with a shorter arm length, the remaining rods and arms are all where they should be; on the trolley and not lying around on the ground or strapped to base dolly getting in our way.
Simon's been working on a 7 month feature in NZ since receiving the GF-8 Xten...
"The crane is working out great, we use it 4 out of 5 days every week since I took possession of it"

27.10.08

Many thanks to Graham Keyte of Jibs In Motion, based in the UK, for some interesting shots of his GF-9 Crane out on the golf course.

Graham's comments: "The golf event was the Irish Open (part of the European Tour) held at Adare Manor near Limerick in Ireland.
The shoot went very well and the GF-9 travels really nicely on the Gator, especially now we have the supporting rods connected. We took the camera off for travelling but still managed to cover 5 camera positions around the course each day. We had lots of compliments from other cameramen and fellow jib operators, who had not seen the GF-9 before. In particular comments about the quality of welding, the overall finish of the GF-9 motion crane. One described it as looking very much like a film jib - quite a compliment from a video cameraman! Some other colleagues had seen the GF-9 behind goal posts at football matches in Germany during the World Cup".

Graham purchased his GF-9 crane at the beginning of 2008 after deciding to get rid of his Jimmy Jib.

"I decided to go for something better and set my sights on a certified crane that complies with all the European safety norms and guidelines. The GF-9 fits the bill perfectly. It's lightweight but incredibly stable and goes together really quickly. Ideal for my type of work and a huge improvement on what I'd worked with previously. I must in particular mention the four wheel (connected four wheel steering) GF-8 base dolly on to which I mount the GF-9 when it is not on the gator. Like everything else GFM produce, the dolly is beautifully made. Safety wise it is a much more secure base than any other jib base I have seen.
Clients including the BBC and ITV Sport have also complimented me on the GF-9. ABC of America have booked it for The Open golf championship this year at Royal Birkdale, having only seen a photograph of the machine ('very cool!' was the comment from a senior ABC production manager!)."<

GFM wishes Graham continued success with his GF-9 camera crane.

03.03.08

Over 1 year after its successful introduction, the GF-Quad Dolly now boasts some innovative new features:
One of the most impressive features of the GF-Quad Dolly is its trend setting, 3 stage steering mode option. Previously unknown in dollies of this class and as of now simply a matter of flicking a switch, to instantly change from, front 2 wheel to 4 wheel to rear 2 wheel steering.

In addition, the steering rod can now be locked off and fixed at a number of angles by simply inserting a locking pin. Alternatively by removing the same pin, a step-less selection of steering rod angles and heights further improves the maneuverability and handling of the GF-Quad Dolly. The steering rod can be quickly removed when not needed or folded flat onto the dolly for compact storage.

Another new feature is that the GF-Quad's Push-bar now has a telescopic width adjustment so it can be extended for some shots e.g. on track; and narrowed for shots were space is restricted e.g. going through doorways. Unchanged is the feature to mount the push-bar at either end of the dolly.

With these new features and its proven record on set, the GF-Quad continues to be a leader in its class.

For clients with first generation GF-Quads: if you haven't already been contacted about a free of charge steering upgrade, please get in touch with us at your convenience.

02.11.07

In a continued drive towards creating higher standards for product safety, GFM′s GF-Track has successfully passed a voluntary Safety Type Test by the TÜV Süd. The GF-Track is the only dolly and crane track to receive the TüV Certification which is based on state-of-the-art-technology as documented in the harmonized norms.

This confidence boosting move demonstrates to both rental houses and the end users that with GF-Track a high quality level is officially documentated. Certainly not to be ignored when it comes to insurance liability etc.
The scope of testing includes the standard GF-Track in combination with the GF-8, GF-9 and GF-10 Crane Systems and the strengthened type with the GF-16 Crane System. Furthermore the GF-Track was tested and certified as an independent product for use with other products e.g. camera dollies from third parties.

20.03.07

Designed to provide the ultimate in mobilty and versatility. With it′s 3 way steering system the GF-Quad manouvres on small sets like no other platform dolly.

Features

• Front wheel steering
• Rear wheel steering
• 4 wheel inverted steering
• Smallest circle = 80cm / 31"
• Straight wheel lock off
• Quick release pneumatic, track or skateboard wheels
• Steering transmission lock off
• Removeable steering rod with angle adjuster
• Mounts on standard dolly track
  (62cm / 24,5")
• Hard coated aluminium construction

05.10.06

Features

• Platform operation
    2 pers = 5.7m/18′8"
    1 pers = 7.3m/24′
• Remote operation
    80kg/175lbs = 8.7m/28′6"
    50kg/110lbs = 10.5m/34′6"
• Base doubles as Western or Track Dolly
• Interchangeable extensions available in 1ft, 2.6ft, 3ft, 5ft, 5.6ft (40, 100, 127, 150, 160cm) lengths
• No numerical set-up procedure
• No dedicated front or back
• Extension arm system allows for combination of any arm to the other
• Easy rigging assembly
• Fast and easy set-up
• Lightweight parts
• Extremely stable arm
• Surface hardened finish
• TÜV Certified

The extremely popular GF-8 Crane System can now be extended to 10.5m / 34′6" with a 50kg / 110lbs payload. The man riding versions can also go higher. The completely modular extension kit for the GF-8 is called the GF-8 Xten.

Without infringing on any aspects of safety or handling, specific emphasis was given to keeping the overall weight and size to a minimum. Even in the longest version, only 600kg / 1320lbs counterweight is required to lift 50kg / 110lbs. The standard GF-8 bucket is easily enlarged by simply adding a small, add on mini bucket (for 9 weights).

The GF-8 Xten′s rigging harness is only 10cm/4 inches higher than the standard GF-8. The width of the rigging harness remains unchanged. Also ensuring the stability of the extended arm is the double rigging system. It consists of the same rods used in the standard GF-8 rigging system.

Standard GF-8′s can be extended to the GF-8 Xten by simply adding a column extension, 2 arm extensions, rigging rods and a mini weight bucket with weights. As with all GFM cranes, the GF-8 Xten will be safety type tested and certified by the TÜV Süddeutschland.

With the GF-8 Xten you′ll be surprised at how easy it is to get more from your GF-8.

24.01.06

The GF-Low Rocker provides, on the one hand stable, low level, camera pan and tilt movements. On the other hand it is a very solid camera mount for securing the camera in fixed positions (e.g. on a camera car).

360 degree panning
45 degree tilt
height            12cm
weight            6.3kg
extremely solid pan & tilt locks
left and righthand handle positions
3 way leveling base
surface hardened finish

AL-2190:      GF-Low Rocker

The GF-Low Shot Rig can be attached to an underslung fluid head resulting in a solid, hanging camera mount, utilizing the fluid head′s drag and dampening.

AL-2205:      GF-Low Shot Rig

The GF-Mini Cranked Risers operate via a spindle driven hand crank. They allow a comfortable and fast height adjustment without having to remove the camera.

AL-2312:      Mini Cranked Riser, adjustable
                    (10 - 14cm / 4" - 6,5")
AL-2317:      Mini Cranked Riser, adjustable
                    (14 - 22cm / 6,5" - 9")

14.11.05

Features:
Self locking spindle drive
Stepless adjustment
Tilt range from 0 to 106 degrees
Dimensions    28 x 12,5 x 4cm
                       11 x 5 x 1.5 inches
Weight            2.4kg / 5.2 lbs
Max payload  30 kg / 66 lbs
Surface hardened finish