Ilford Tests Sharper Delta 400 Film in Limited Run
Ilford Photo has released a limited-edition version of its Delta 400 Professional black-and-white film. The new Collector's Edition uses a clearer base with anti-halation protection for improved sharpness and dynamic range, but is only available in very limited physical stores.
Ilford Photo has launched a limited-edition black-and-white film, the Ilford Delta 400 Professional Collector's Edition. The 35mm film promises professional-grade, super-sharp images with very fine grain.
According to the company, this new version offers subtle improvements over the standard Delta 400 Professional. It is coated on what Ilford calls a "clearer roll film base with anti-halation protection." This is a first for the company's 35mm black-and-white film lineup.
Performance and Availability
The film retains the same ISO 400 speed and processing times as the regular variant. Ilford states it provides better dynamic range, shadow detail, scanning performance, and overall sharpness. It is being sold in a sleek all-black cassette and carton.
However, availability is extremely restricted. Ilford says the film is available "in very limited quantities while stocks last" and for a "limited time." It is not being sold through Ilford's online shop, only via authorized physical retailers. A single roll costs $15.19.
A Market Test
Naturally, photographers might wonder why a superior product is being released in such a constrained manner. Ilford provided an answer in the comments section of its Instagram post announcing the film.
It's a test to see what people think and if there's a market for it, the company commented. The strategy is to gauge demand and gather feedback from those who manage to purchase the film.
Ilford adds that if the response is positive, it would consider manufacturing the film again as a regular product. In that scenario, the price would likely be higher than the existing product. The anti-halation layer is cited as a factor that adds to manufacturing costs.
Film Comparison
The source provides a direct comparison between the new limited edition and the standard film.
| Feature | Ilford Delta 400 Professional | Ilford Delta 400 Professional Collector's Edition |
|---|---|---|
| Film Base | Standard | Clearer with anti-halation protection |
| Key Improvements | - | Better dynamic range, shadow detail, scanning, sharpness |
| Grain | Very fine | Very fine |
| Speed (ISO) | 400 | 400 |
| Processing | Unchanged | Unchanged |
| Price | $15.19 (implied) | $15.19 |
| Availability | General | Very limited, in-store only |
This limited release serves as a practical experiment for the historic film manufacturer. Its future depends on the reception from the photography community. The hope is that the film proves popular enough for a wider release.
