In addition to usefulness as a fine-grain developer, this formula is satisfactory for obtaining soft gradation with Agfa Direct Copy Film, Agfa Direct Duplicating Film and portrait and press cut films. It is also recommended for motion picture negative development. This developer may be obtained in packaged form ready-to-use by ordering "Agfa Formula 17 Fine-Grain Developer." Formula 17 is a soft-working fine-grain developer.

The above was from the 1938 book - I have no idea whether the packaged form is still available.

Borax can be cheaply bought as "20-Mule Team Borax" in the laundry section of many supermarkets (Not Boraxo). A 4-lb 12 oz package costs less than $3US in 2003.

From Agfa Formulas for Photographic Use, 1938