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Fuji 690 advice

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henryyjjames

henryyjjames

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Hi all,

I'm currently looking into the Fuji 690 cameras, and I'm struggling to comprehend the differences between these models so I thought I would ask here. From what I've gathered the 4 main models are the GSW690ii, the GSW690iii, the GW690ii and the GW690iii. If someone has any insight on the differences and benefits of each, please let me know.


Thanks,

Henry
 
henryyjjames said:
Hi all,

I'm currently looking into the Fuji 690 cameras, and I'm struggling to comprehend the differences between these models so I thought I would ask here. From what I've gathered the 4 main models are the GSW690ii, the GSW690iii, the GW690ii and the GW690iii. If someone has any insight on the differences and benefits of each, please let me know.


Thanks,

Henry
Click to expand...

There was quite a series. The original GL690 had 3 interchangeable lenses. Then the ii series had a fixed lens but kept the metal body. The camera was available in wide angle (GSW) with a 65mm f5.6 or the standard model (GW) with the 90mm f3.5. It was available in a number of aspect ratios. 670,680,690....all the same body with different negative formats. The iii version has more plastic...but it's a die-cast metal body that is plastic clad. I've used all 3 series in a number of formats and my personal favourite is the GW680iii. The lenses are sharp and big enlargements don't suffer at all. A huge improvement in handling over the bulkier Mamiya Press 23.
 
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GSW - 65mm lens
GW - 90mm lens

the II and III are the generations. Overall functions are about the same between these two. I've used both and haven't really had an opinion over one being better than the other. But the IIs can be purchased for a few bucks less so thats what i have been leaning towards lately.
 
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They're cool cameras. The fixed lens aspect doesn't leave you wallowing in the "which focal length?" mental debate. My only issue with them is the slightly odd nature of doing long exposures. If that's not the type of work you do, then there is no issue. I won't clutter this thread with that stuff, the info is in a few other posts on here.
The version III will likely be the most expensive regardless of format. the 670III seems to have the highest asking prices. Also, don't hyper focus on the roll counter either.
 
43695501085_6ca24196fe_b.jpg


iPhone photo of 16x20" print. Fuji GW680iii, FP4+, print on Foma Variant FB
 
there were 3 6x9 variants 1 one 6x7 variant with interchangable lenses that predated the GW, but the GW series all had fixed lenses.

GW = 90mm lens
GSW = 65mm lens

690 = 6x9
680 = 6x8 (the most uncommon)
670 = 6x7

no roman numeral = first generation
II = second generation
III = third genertion

pick one from each group above:

GSW690III = 65mm lens, 6x9, third generation body

not all combinations were made, for instance I don't believe the GSW lens was available in 6x7.
 
41208600372_685eacdf52_b.jpg

Fuji GSW90iii, Tri-X, (f5.6 @ 1/250) iphone photo of 16x20" print on Forte Polywarmtone FB
 
In short, the lenses are all great regardless of versions. I personally have used GL690 (interchangeable lenses) with 100/3.5 (Tessar formula), GW690 with 90/3.5 (Plasmat), and GSW690 II with 65/5.6 lens. They reach a large format kind of quality in a reasonably compact package (compared to 4x5).

The latter versions all have Super EBC coated optics, which might be a bit more flare resistant (esp for the 65mm lens).

There are some small ergonomics difference. Some versions have built-in hood, some have separate but IMHO better square lens hood. Some versions the aperture and shutter control is a bit more crowded due to the hood design.
 
I have the GW690III and GSW690II. MkIII has more rounded edges, a tiny built-in bubble level, red button spool releases and a neat folding latch for opening the back. MkII is a bit more square, has fold/pull/twist spool releases and a small metal latch for opening the back. Both have almost identical shutter/aperture controls, shutter buttons and sliding hoods. MkII has a heavier texture to the focus grip.

To the best of my knowledge, versions I to III have the same lenses (90mm f3.5 for the GW, 65mm f5.6 for the GSW)
 
I have both the II and III generations. I prefer the III. I absolutely love these Fuji (Fujica) cameras I have the 6x9s and a early fixed 105mm G617 the 617 is a blast.
 
The previous responses are good info.

I've had the GW690 iii, killed it (crummy tripod head) and got a ii. I consider those two models to be basically the same in use, and that wold be similar with the GSW iii and ii models also. I think there was a change in the rangefinder implementation between the two generations, but I've never noticed one better than the other. These days, the abuse history of the camera is going to matter more.

I get along well with the size and the format. The lenses are quite good. The shutter release is a bit noisy for a leaf shutter, the rangefinders on both cameras were always spot on, never had issues except after the one fell off a tripod to concrete.

I've had zero issues with the slightly funky method to end a time exposure: wind the film or turn the shutter speed selector off "T". I do a lot of night photos, never an issue. This characteristic gets criticised on various forums.
 
Since mrosenlof mentioned it in passing. These cameras are robust. My first was the GL690. I inherited it from Canadian Rockies photographer/legend Bruno Engler. I recall paying him $40 for it. It had taken a 20m/60' fall during a shoot on Sulphur Mtn. I had to gaffer tape the back after loading it to keep a dent from leaving a light leak....but the rangefinder and shutter worked flawlessly. That camera is now in the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies collection.
 
I paid $200 for this GL690 in 2011. It is a great camera at 5 times that price.
52356255397_3c929fd3b9_h.jpg
 
these are great cameras. I have a GW690I and a GSW 680III. I love the 6x8 format for some reason. I bought the 6x9 vers 1 because I wanted one of these great cameras but without the collapsing lens shade that can become and issue for some people. but not having a shutter lock, that's the main downside of version 1. get one, any of them and you wont be sorry. if I remember correctly, the lens in all the versions is the same, so its the little things that differentiate them. figure out whats most important to you and run with it.

john
 
I've always wanted one - particularly one of the 6x8 versions.
One caution though. If you have never actually seen one in real life, you may be surprised at how big they look!
 
And how heavy they are;-) I have the G690BL with 65, 100, and 180 lenses. All are great.
 
GW690II in my collection. It is indeed LARGE overall, but I think it handles quite well even in smaller hands. Fixed lens helps with lens choice for any shooting scene 🙃 Quality build and just that strange shutter sound, even if it never bothered me, but it is more than distinct. WHile I would say go in blind and get one if you like what're hearing/seeing, getting hands on one might be beneficial prior to purchase. There is probably nothing like it that compares.
 
I have a GW690III, easily my favourite camera. I do wish it had a light meter though.
 
Craig said:
I have a GW690III, easily my favourite camera. I do wish it had a light meter though.
Click to expand...

If they could only have done OM4 spot arrangement on it, that would have been gold.
 
mrosenlof said:
I've had zero issues with the slightly funky method to end a time exposure: wind the film or turn the shutter speed selector off "T". I do a lot of night photos, never an issue. This characteristic gets criticised on various forums.
Click to expand...

I think the issue is for "short" 2-4 second exposures. Twisting the ring might jar the camera, film advance will drag the exposure.
 
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