Initial experiemce with Fuji GF670W

snaggs · 09-01-2012

I bought this on impulse last week. Id been thinking about a FM3a or Leica again, then I saw this beauty on the shelf. The build is wonderful compared to the Rollei RF35 I have. They have really thought of every small detail. Things that stand out;

* Little red buttons to release the spools and the easy load system with Fuji film makes this much much easier to load that a M6 which Ive had in the past. Blads and Rolleiflex are difficult in comparison.

* The rangefinder is much clearer and sharper than the M9 I had. Its just no comparison. I dont need to look for edges, its as easy to focus as an SLR, the RF just goes sharp when its in focus.

* its so quiet, much much quieter than an M6, let alone an M9 or any SLR. I thought it was broken at first as nothing happened when I pressed the button. Its hard to explain unless you try, the in lens shutter is the key I guess. No vibration or movement of click.

* 6x7 and 6x6 are wonderful aspect ratios. Time to buy a projector on ebay. Tranny size is huge.

I know in the realms of budget cameras it seems pricey, but $2k for a Biogon lens? (reasonable on its own) with optimised camea behind it and 6x7 film? who needs polaroid with a tranny this size? Just blu-tack it on the window. Its as large as my sons Instax but cheaper!

Ive been shooting impossible polaroid film, and E6 in comparison is a bargain. We dont appreciate this stuff until its gone and then we realse what we really are willing to pay for natural looking photos that look like nothing on a computer screen.

Very simple to load, the minimum of controls, 1/500s flash sync. Its no harder to use than a disposable 35mm camera. MF has never been so simple. The best choice for anyone considering a rangefinder where budget is not the driver.

Daniel.

rbelyell · 09-01-2012

daniel, congrats and good luck with it. i have been extremely intrigued by this camera, but found its $3000 price tag too daunting for me. did i read correctly that you bought it for $2000usd??? if so, that is an amazing deal and certainly one i would consider given what you get in return.

i hope you post some images here, i know many including myself will be very interested to see the results.
tony

Dana B. · 09-01-2012

Great write-up. I have the GF670, but the W is out of reach. You stole it if you paid $2k. Please post some pics when you develop them.

snaggs · 09-01-2012

I got an ex-dem that was the Fuji reps demo. Will drop the E6 off next week.

Any here ever seen projected MF?

Daniel.

Vickko · 09-01-2012

Good report

I'm currently lusting for a Bessa III. Not convinced yet to go the GF670 route, although it would save me money.

And currently been shooting a Bessa II and Super Ikonta C (531/2). The old glass is great, but I would like to shoot compact MF with modern ergonomics.

Just got to find the right camera and price.

rbelyell · 09-01-2012

vick is my understanding that the 670 is simply a rebadged bessae iii incorrect?
tony

Vickko · 09-01-2012

I thought it was the other way around. But in any case, the two cameras are identical, except for the nameplate.

Oh, I think the GF670 is harder to find in black.

Quote:

Originally Posted by rbelyell

vick is my understanding that the 670 is simply a rebadged bessae iii incorrect?
tony

rbelyell · 09-02-2012

yeah maybe so. in either case, if the fuji is cheaper why are you commited to the bessa over it? im curious because i,m contemplating a fuji...
tony

Godfrey · 09-02-2012

Neat, I look forward to seeing some photos you make with it.

The Balda Baldix I bought should be here soon. If I end up using it for more than a lark, one of the Bessa III or GF670 cameras could find it's way here... I've always loved 6x6.

snaggs · 09-10-2012

Just got a few chromes back. Suprised how closely it would focus.

6x6 still my favourite format.

Daniel.

thegman · 09-10-2012

Nice camera, I'm sorted for wides, but I've ordered a GF670, but still waiting... They really are great cameras, and they seem pricey at first, but compared with the competitors, they're not really. Can't wait to get the GF670, portable medium format is where it's at for me right now.

ssmc · 09-10-2012

I love the non-folding form-factor of the GF670W, and that I'd get an extra 2 shots per roll over my GW690III, but I just can't swallow the price. It if cost the same as the folder (even 20% more for the Fuji version would still put it at 2k) I'd be there like white on rice

hausen · 09-10-2012

I love my GF670 and would love the GF670W. US$2000 is best I have seen by far. Well done.