Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1998/11/24

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Subject: Re: [Leica] Stoeckler 2-Bath Processing Method
From: Randolph Carlisle <omegaman@shentel.net>
Date: Tue, 24 Nov 1998 11:51:25 -0800

Bob Bedell wrote:
Is anyone familiar with the "Stoeckler 2 bath method"?    A source
reference or a description of this would be appreciated.
Bob:
This is a two solution process:
Solution A = 5 grams Metol, 100 grams sodium sulfite added to 1 liter
water.
Solution B = 10 grams Borax added to 1 liter of water
To mix start with about 800 ML water at around 100 degrees.  Put the
Metol in the water.  Stir until it is dissolved completely before adding
the Sodium Sulfite.  In a separate container dissolve the Borax.  Again,
800 ML water at around 100 degrees.  This will leave you with two 1
liter containers.  Clearly label the first A - the second B.  Metol is
Kodaks name for the chemical (I forgot the scientific name).  Metol can
usually be found at larger camera shops.  Sodium Sulfite is the same
stuff you use to clear Polaroid negative films (Type 55 and 665).  It
also can be found at camera shops.  For B solution you can buy the Borax
at the grocery store - it is sold as a laundry supplement.  DONT"S: 
Dont buy lab grade chemicals from a lab supply house unless you have no
other choice.  These are sold in a high purity grade that you will not
need at twice the cost of photo grade which has a few impurities.  Don't
labor over a lab scale to make very precise measurements - use kitchen
measuring spoons: 1/2 tablespoon Metol; 4 tablespoons Sodium Sulfite; 1
tablespoon Borax.  You will never notice the difference.  Don't let any
of the B solution get into the A - that ruins A and it must be thrown
away.  How to use: Pour solution A into the tank with film. Development
time is 3-4 minutes for ASA 25-50 films; 4-5 minutes for ASA 125; 6-7
minutes for ASA 400.  Any temperature between 65 - 80 degrees is ok. 
Agitate 5 seconds each minute.  After this is done pour solution A back
into its container.  Drain the tank thouroughly.  With no stop or water
bath between, pour in solution B. Solution B is 3 minutes for all b&w
films.

There are better two-bath developers than the above.  To stay on subject
there is the LEICA formula.  It was supposed to have been recommended by
Leica.  In Leica's formula, solution A is the same as Stoeckler. 
Solution B = 6 grams Sodium Sulfite and 15 grams Sodium Carbonate. 
Leica's formula operates differently and better.  You can contol
contrast by varying times in solution A from 3-7 minutes for all b&w
films.  Solution B is 3 minutes for all b&w films.
Leica's formula is better because of its simplicity of use and improved
results. Stoecklers may cause loss of emulsion speed.  I think both of
these formulas go back to the 30's - your times may be different.

Hope this helps
RC