BRONICA

[anthonym3]

I have bought a BRONICA but do not know which model. I an fairly certain it is either an S2 or S2-A. The serial number is CB1110612. I cannot find any information on the internet.

 

[jwd722]

A picture would be helpful.
This might help in the meantime...
http://www.baldmtn.com/Bronica.htm

 

[wiltw]

This is what a Bronica S2 looks like... https://www.google.com/search?hl=en..._occt=any&safe=images&as_filetype=&as_rights=

An article about how to identify different early Bronica models
https://www.craigcamera.com/research_trivbronica.htm

 

[Deleted member 88956]

I have bought a BRONICA but do not know which model. I an fairly certain it is either an S2 or S2-A. The serial number is CB1110612. I cannot find any information on the internet.

If it has no S2A at end of SN, then given the number it is likely the S2. I believe sure S2A starts at above 150XXX. Too bad Bronica never identified these models like one would expect.

 

[macfred]

... I believe sure S2A starts at above 150XXX.

#150037 and higher for those S2A cameras without S2A markings.

 

[Deleted member 88956]

#150037 and higher for those S2A cameras without S2A markings.

Thanks, that is what I was after.

Important to note here is that many sellers describe the S2 as S2A, sometimes unknowingly. As both look pretty much the same, SN becomes the key. I am wary of volume sellers of photo gear who post lots of pics yet without showing the SN, as that to me seems like premeditated deception. Private owners are different matter ... sometimes at least.

I went after EC, having actually bought the S2A (the real thing with S2A at end of SN on all 3 backs and body, then losing the deal by some bizarre turn of events, so never got to see it. Once I realized pitfalls of S2A design, EC became a clear winner. Sure, electronics can fail, but I'm good with that and love it.

 

[jwd722]

I could be wrong but it looks like there is at least one too many numbers in the serial no. I have a late model S2, has a smaller rewind crank w/ a black fold out lever and the "screw" in the middle like the S2a and has the "elephant ears" strap lugs like the S2. Serial no. is CB 87xxx.

 

[Deleted member 88956]

I could be wrong but it looks like there is at least one too many numbers in the serial no. I have a late model S2, has a smaller rewind crank w/ a black fold out lever and the "screw" in the middle like the S2a and has the "elephant ears" strap lugs like the S2. Serial no. is CB 87xxx.

Your SN is quit ancient, very early going. I'm not sure about compatibility of parts, but if they swap, then that's what you may have. There are a few S2 right now on bay with 5 digit SN

 

[jwd722]

Curious as to where you got the serial number info from. I see no way that a rewind crank from an earlier S2 (no screw in the middle) can be replaced with a later model crank (screw in the middle).
I just looked at ebay and I see most, if not all, S2's have a 5 digit serial no., later models with the features as mine also have 5 digit nos. the highest I saw was 92xxx.

 

[Deleted member 88956]

Curious as to where you got the serial number info from. I see no way that a rewind crank from an earlier S2 (no screw in the middle) can be replaced with a later model crank (screw in the middle).
I just looked at ebay and I see most, if not all, S2's have a 5 digit serial no., later models with the features as mine also have 5 digit nos. the highest I saw was 92xxx.

No idea what you are trying to say. The S2A I bought then never received it was all 6 digits on all parts, body and 3 backs. 5 digits are low in the line up and as stated many a times, S2A has either an S2A at end of SN or Sn above 150 XXX.

Regarding knob change I said I don't know whether that was possible, only if it were, a concoction of sorts might be available on the used market.

 

[jwd722]

Did you notice I said S2 not S2a?

 

[jwd722]

BTW, my post about serial nos. was because yours had seven nos. not six. Just to clarify, I believe it was a misprint on your part.

 

[jwd722]

BTW, my post about serial nos. was because yours had seven nos. not six. Just to clarify, I believe it was a misprint on your part.

Sorry, meant OP not you.

 

[abruzzi]

I just looked at ebay and I see most, if not all, S2's have a 5 digit serial no., later models with the features as mine also have 5 digit nos. the highest I saw was 92xxx.

Assuming that the info that unmarked S2As start at serial number 150037, then this is an S2 with a 6 digit serial, CB 113480, so they do exist:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Zenza-Bron...681599?hash=item2165504abf:g:tpQAAOSwJcNdwl3~

 

[Deleted member 88956]

Did you notice I said S2 not S2a?

This thread is about both.

 

[anthonym3]

Mystery solved! My BRONICA arrived today it is clearly marked S2-A ,serial #CB110612 S2A. It's a little worn but works beautifully well. The seller listed it as non working,parts only shutter will not cock. I took the risk thinking the seller did not know it had to be loaded with film in order to cock the shutter,I was correct. $177.00 including shipping,not bad!

 

[macfred]

^
Congrats - sounds good !
What about the foams (groundglass) - very often the foam is deteriorated and is causing focusing problems.

 

[jwd722]

Nice deal! A fun camera to use. I have many (way too many) cameras but I use my Bronica the most.
I find a Bronica left hand grip to be a very worthwhile accessory.

 

[johnha]

Congrats, they are beautiful cameras. You can cock the shutter and dry fire them by removing the back.

 

[moto-uno]

You lucky guy . Peter