Good Source for RF

[Dracotype]

I am looking to get into rangerfinderdom without too much expense, so I can save up for something nice. I have already looked at the suggestions in a previous post, but my question was this, where to buy?

I have seen DVDtech Cameras, Fedka, and Ebay, but I was wondering if this was it. Help is appreciated.

Drew

 

[Robert Budding]

Check the classifieds at rangefinderforum.com. Just be aware that good things go very quickly, so keep an eye on it.

 

[Justin Low]

I recently bought a Kiev 4A from Alex-photo on eBay; it arrived promptly in great condition, and is working properly. His price was slightly higher than other dealers, but he came highly recommended from the folks over at the RFF. I've no connection to him other than being a satisfied customer.

 

[Mike Kennedy]

Alex is an honest dealer. I have purchased 7 Russian rangefinders from him and have never been disappointed. I would rather pay a little more from a trustworthy man then get a cheapo that looks like it was smuggled out of the C.C.C.P in the belly of a goat.
My best source of information on collectable rangefinders has been Matts Classic Rangefinders and Compacts. Great site, super guy.

Mike
PSo not forget that Rule #1 with those old Russian cameras is..ALWAYS COCK THE SHUTTER BEFORE ADJUSTING THE SPEEDS.

 

[Robert Budding]

I have a Contax IIIa that was completely overhauled by Henry Scherer that I've thought about selling. But that isn't a budget camera. But it is less than a Leica. I'll think about it a bit more and may list on the classifieds here.

 

[Dracotype]

Thanks for all the help. I looked at Alex's selection and prices, and was very impressed. I might order something within the next week or so. A FED 2 and Jupiter 12 perhaps.

By the way, how long was the package in getting to you when you ordered it? I just want to know how suprised to act when it arrives .

Drew

 

[Justin Low]

Drew, paid on 2/1, Alex sent it out on 6/1, it reached me on 13/1. There was a bit of delay in sending it out due to the New Year holidays.

 

[Earl Dunbar]

Drew: I echo the recommendation to look on RFF. Posting a general WTB request is not a bad idea; lots of folks on that forum have equipment that they would be willing to sell for a fair price, even if they hadn't considered selling it, especially to someone new to RFs.

FWIW, I recommend considering a high quality fixed lens RF as a first step. Here's my reasoning ...

If you get a interchangeable lens body, such as LTM, M, Contax, etc., then you're dipping your toe in that mount system, even if adapters are available. The tendency is to acquire inexpensive lenses for that mount. Eventually you have a pile of gear that, if you change your direction, may not be useful, that you need to deal away.

Of course, you can have a barrel of fun along the way, so that's just one perspective.

 

[Dracotype]

Drew, paid on 2/1, Alex sent it out on 6/1, it reached me on 13/1. There was a bit of delay in sending it out due to the New Year holidays.

Is that January 2nd? So it took 11 days right? I am just used to month/day, not day/month.

Drew

 

[Dracotype]

Drew: I echo the recommendation to look on RFF. Posting a general WTB request is not a bad idea; lots of folks on that forum have equipment that they would be willing to sell for a fair price, even if they hadn't considered selling it, especially to someone new to RFs.

FWIW, I recommend considering a high quality fixed lens RF as a first step. Here's my reasoning ...

If you get a interchangeable lens body, such as LTM, M, Contax, etc., then you're dipping your toe in that mount system, even if adapters are available. The tendency is to acquire inexpensive lenses for that mount. Eventually you have a pile of gear that, if you change your direction, may not be useful, that you need to deal away.

Of course, you can have a barrel of fun along the way, so that's just one perspective.

Thanks for the advice. I was really planning to use it mostly for candid people shots, not as my main system. Also, I don't use a very large variety of lenses. I can be very happy with just a normal lens. I guess that would argue for a fixed lens RF. But thank you for the recommendation.

Drew