OConnor Ultimate 2575E Platinum Fluid Head

The 2575E is the fluid head most feature and episodic sets have been built around since the early 1990s, and the Platinum Edition is its 75th anniversary rework. The mechanism is unchanged where it matters: the patented sinusoidal counterbalance holds true balance at every point in the tilt range with a numerically marked crank, and the stepless pan and tilt drag runs from whip pan to long lens creep without a detent anywhere. It carries 133 lb (60.5 kg) at a 4 in centre of gravity, 105 lb (47.7 kg) at 6 in and 87 lb (39.5 kg) at 8 in, in a magnesium housing.

What changed is the handling. The centre lock is now stainless and stays put in both the on and off positions. The platform release adjusts fore and aft and works with one hand. The balance mechanism cover is carbon fiber rather than plastic, the level bubble is easier to read at any angle, and the Mitchell key position marker is clearly printed so setup is quicker. Buy it as the bare head, or as the package that adds the Euro style quick release, pan handle and extension, and both Mitchell and 150mm bases with tiedowns.