8MM 16MM Film Condition/Reel Sizes

Film Condition

Condition of Film/Reel Sizes 8mm 16mm film transfer Digital Restoration-1
Condition of Film/Reel Sizes 8mm 16mm film transfer Digital Restoration-2
Condition of Film/Reel Sizes 8mm 16mm film transfer Digital Restoration-3
  • When 8mm 16mm Films are in the metal cans, that's one of the worst places they can be stored
  • The films rot over time because the bad gases built up and no fresh air circulates.
  • 8mm 16mm Film needs to be smooth, flat, pliable.. NOT hard, fused together, twisted warped, brittle.
  • 8mm 16mm films will smell like strong vinegar as they deteriorate over time. 

Size of Reels

measure reels (not the film) from left to right across face at widest point.

8mm (1/4" wide) Reel Sizes Are 3" 5" 6" and 7"

  • 3" 50 foot
  • 5" 200 feet
  • 6" 300 feet
  • 7" 400 feet
  • Reels have footage markings on the Spokes.
  • Also need # of each.

16mm (5/8 Inch wide)

measure reels (not the film) from left to right across face at widest point.

  • 2 7/8" = 50 foot
  • 3 7/8" - 100 foot
  • 7" 400 foot
  • up to 18" across
  • 7" and larger reels have footage markings on the Spokes.
  • Reels have footage markings on the Spokes.