It’s not just Sachtler’s products that are making history, but also the staff behind the scenes. While tripods, fluid heads and spotlights help camera operators tell stories, legends also grow around the people behind the “S”. Our “current head” column focuses on these special Sachtler characters.

Sachtler’s fluid heads have made a name for themselves in the industry, but so has Franz Eibel as a member of the service team with a reputation for being a wizard. The 41-year-old admits that he takes great pleasure in the long working-life of Sachtler products and, as a result, is inseparably linked to the products.

If for example something sticks and a tripod head no longer runs smoothly, it’s Franz Eibel who knows exactly what to do. After 22 years of experience in Sachtler’s service workshop, fluid heads hold no secrets from him. While other technicians need sketches and serial numbers to identify a fluid head, a quick glance is often all that Franz Eibel requires.

Even models that have been out of production for years, like the legendary Hollywood head, are in good hands with Eibel. After working his spell in the workshop they come out looking like new. Speedy recoveries such as this save time and eliminate stress for camera operators waiting it out. Camera support advice from Franz Eibel is priceless. He is truly a head above the rest.