I recently picked up this projector at a local estate auction. Based on the serial number, it was built in 1970. Although the outside case was quite dirty, everything else was really clean. I relied on a manual from Film-Tech for the S221 (somewhat different), so if anyone has a copy to share of the S321 manual please let me know.

The reason I was interested in this projector is due to some of the unique features it has and the fact that it is capable of both Optical and Magnetic sound for 16mm. Please take a look at the pictures and list of features (Pro's) as well as some of the limitations (Con's) which I have discovered, but there may be others which I have missed...feel free to share your thoughts...

PRO's:
Case w/ detachable speaker really protects the projector well. Storage areas for power cord, oiler, spare lamps, tools
Magnetic soundtrack play and record, as well as standard optical playback
Tip out lamp access
Shutter control switch for 3 vs. 2 blade
Swing open film gate for easy access to clean
Locking sprocket keepers
Unique Push-pull reel holders
Built-in stroboscope for 18/ 24 fps speed verification
Lighted Controls
Adjustable voltage regulation
4 individually adjustable feet
Tube amplifier
Extremely well-built

CONS:
Very heavy! Roughly 55 pounds
Generates a lot of heat with the 1000 wattDFT lamp
Atypical power/mains connector
No loop resetter/Not tolerant of poor condition film/Small lower loop can be quickly lost
Fairly loud

After a little clean up and a little oil in specific ports, I projected on to the kitchen cupboard for a quick test, so please forgive the poor screen shot.
Succesfully tested the projector with both optical and magnetic films. For the magnetic, I used a Scopitone print. I only have a few of these, but they are great fun with 1960's songs and some were IB Tech as well. Also, I have a few local TV station bits that have magnetic sound which I will now be able to hear...

Very cool machine! Yoy can actually switch between a 2 and 3 blades shutter? I have wondered how well one can notice the difference.

My Bell and Howell also have a non standard plug. I had to look for it for a while as it was missing, but found it in the end at CHC.

Eivind,

I tried the different shutter blades while watching a black and white educational film at 24 fps. It seemed to me that 3 blade shutter had a bit less 'flicker' than the 2 blade shutter.
Yes, I was happy to see in the auction pictures the power cord was included, otherwise I wouldn't have been interested to bid on it.

Hello Greg,

This is an excellent machine which looks to be in excellent condition, congratulation!!

This machine shows many chrome plated parts, NO plastic guide, film travel is clear, certainely a safe machine.

Probably "Mag section" is mint, as there are few Mag 16mm .

It mays be beneficial to convert classic lamp to HID......

Not sure, may be main power Amp is fitted with valves or a mix of Transistors / Valves.

Realy a beautiful construction

Greg
I have a Bolex S321 projector. Yes, It certainly is heavy.
But, I soon learnt to carry it after I had taken off the side loud speaker cover. That, in itself, is quite heavy.
When it is finished use, the side cover goes back on, and I gently slide the whole thing to its storage position.

Thats a rare find, and a machine built to last.

Here is its details on The Bolex Collector :----

http://www.bolexcollector.com/projectors/s321.html

Maurice,

I have found the both the user manual and the service manual available here:

https://www.camera-manual.com/bolex-s-321-manual-1467

I will order these today...

Thank you, Greg.
I already have both, the Instruction Manual being an original.
But I am sure your posting will be of interest to other owners.