Buying a GW690, what to look for?

[Newt_on_Swings]

If your going MF I'd suggest you go atleast to 6x6. 645 is way to small and is the smallest step up from 35mm, not worth it as there won't be noticeable differences when enlarging. If you like the rectangle, crop or go to 6x7.

 

[FotoFunfDreissig]

I too like 6x6 actually, it is hip to be square. I would like something ideally similar to what I am used to, i.e rangefinder. What would people recommend, as a quality rangerfinder, with good glass available, portability without being restricted by lack of manual features. something like these fujis, idealy with a meter included.

Any suggestions?

 

[RattyMouse]

I too like 6x6 actually, it is hip to be square. I would like something ideally similar to what I am used to, i.e rangefinder. What would people recommend, as a quality rangerfinder, with good glass available, portability without being restricted by lack of manual features. something like these fujis, idealy with a meter included.

Any suggestions?

Have you looked at a Fuji GF670?

 

[FotoFunfDreissig]

I have not, I will look, if you care to explain, upsides and or downsides, I would be appreciative.
Again, things to look out for are always helpful.

 

[FotoFunfDreissig]

So, yeah, just had a good look and read a little about it.

Now I just got to find a black market consumer to purchase my spare kidney so I can get one. If I hadn't recently bought a summilux 1.4 35mm for my M7 I would be all over this, but if anybody has one that for some crazy reason wants to get rid of it, I might be interested, If I manage to sell my old Leica model IId/35mm Elmar f3.5 for a good price, I will definitely invest.

Im assuming this is essentially the same lens that is on the GW690? Well anyway, the camera looks very pretty, and compact.
I would very much like to have a play with one to see what it is like. I also love fold cameras and bellows.

Thanks for opening my eyes.

 

[Prest_400]

I have long itched going Medium format (and still do, haven't done it yet) and a GW690 seems a really good choice. I'd get one, but buying the camera and extra gear needed would leave me with no money left for film.

Really, really lucky person to grab one of these for 2$. Holy bad. Sorry to hear the OP couldn't grab it. If 200$ is a great price, 2$ is just free.

First, I actually prefer the 6x7 and 6x6 look over the 6x9, which looks too much like a 645 or a 35mm frame to me. Secondly I actually do think the absence of a light meter is quite unfortunately. If you are buying a rangefinder portability and ease of use is the whole point! Why should you have to lug around a separate piece of equipment and double the number of steps and time it takes to make a photo?
[...]
Anyway, the $2 story is a heart breaker! Better luck next time. And in spite of my prejudice, if you find what you're looking for I expect you will love it and take some wonderful photos with it.

I agree, I am someone who prefers a shorter ratio compared to 3:2 (35mm).
I too though about the lack of meter, but many other cameras (Leica M, Nikon F) also lack metering. Might be an opportunity to slow down, as 6x9 with 8 frames shouldn't be taken in a hurry.

 

[FotoFunfDreissig]

Prest - Very true, those frames are not cheap these days either.

What about the Mamiya 7 as a contender with the gf/gw's about the same price second hand as the gf, and multiple lens capable. I have heard pretty good things in the past about them. i am in no hurry really to buy any of this stuff, as I have a bunch of new gear I am playing with.

Haha, I cant decide, and to top things off a friend has just called and wants to swap his Bronica with my old IId although, i dont really want an SLR