Taking the plunge - Fuji GS645 on the way

[batterytypehah!]

I've had serious 6x4.5 GAS for a while but been getting frustrated with what seems like an endless parade of silly ebay prices for classic folders. I mean, $40-ish for a modest Kodak Duo 620? No RF and you have to respool the film. Zenobia, Ensign, Bessa 46 - all nice enough cameras, I'm sure, but priced out of proportion to their capabilities IMO.

So, I took a stroll around the as-is section at KEH this morning and found a bargain GS645 (bad foam, holes in bellows) for $149. Now, I did my homework and I know it's got a spotty reputation, especially the bellows and mechanics. I've been very happy with KEH in the past and figure if it turns out to be too bad, I have the return option. OTOH the bellows may just hold up for a while with tape while I look for a suitable replacement, and there doesn't seem to be much foam at all (just the hinge area, right?).

Oh, this will be my first foray into this format but I'm stepping up from 16 on 127 (which is fast becoming an expensive taste). I like the 3:4 aspect ratio, the film economy, and I find myself shooting lots of verticals. Should feel familiar.