My Collection: Urbis ZX1

Urbis' ZX1 lantern was the smallest lantern in the ZX series. They could run 50W-100W SON-T with a range of optic systems. This one has the iconic ZX1 1317 reflector with deep-refractor bowl. The lanterns are side-entry only (not to be confused with the later-made ZXU1 which is post-top or side-entry). While these could take 100W SON-T, their lamp-compartment was a bit too small, so it often ended up charred like this example's. The lantern looks almost identical from either-side, minus a snapped canopy clip.

You may also notice a post-top adaptor/stud bracket, but this was a later addition by me, as the ZX1 could often be found on something similar.

A birds eye view presents the tear-drop shape of the lantern.

From beneath, the age of the ZX1 begins to show. A distinctive grid pattern is apparent, along with the grub-screws for the side-entry spigot. Two screws are present towards the optic, undoing these will free the canopy, and the four clips can be pushed in to remove it entirely.

With the canopy removed, the toasted optic-system is on display. The gear is in good shape for it's age.

The reflector now has the consistency of charcoal, any slight pressure causes it to snap, so tape was placed over the weakest points as a form of rudimentary protection. There is no saving this, a new optic-system is in order. Notice the duct-tape holding in the E40 lamp-holder too, as the clips had disintegrated.

This would have been held in via Urbis' trademark twist-and-pull mechanism.

The gear is positioned at the back of the lantern in this nice layout with the ballast, capacitor, and ignitor all lined up.

The ballast is an Urbis L.P.F. Ballast HSG10024521.

The 12μF capacitor is an Arcotronics C.23B.2A.???.MKP, and the ignitor to the right of it is an Urbis PAE400.

An April 1994 date compass is engraved into the canopy.

Despite all of the heat stress, the ZX1 still persevered and powered on like a treat!