Kiev 19 - anyone used one?

[mcgrattan]

Has anyone used a Kiev 19 slr?

They're Ukrainian made and mount Nikon lenses. I've seen a few 2nd hand on eBay and wondered whether anyone had used one?

I'll be looking for something as a knockabout 'beater' camera so I'm not expecting something of high quality but I would like any info that someone has.

Thanks!

 

[Tom Hoskinson]

I have a couple of them that I use as knockabout cameras. They actually work quite well for what they are. I believe I paid about $70.00 for a new camera - including the lens. The Ukrainian lenses for the camera are inexpensive and pretty good, as well.

 

[mfobrien]

I bought a new one a few years ago. It was certainly a useable camera, but it did not have the same feel and smoothness of a real Nikon. It was kind of clunky and had a limited range of shutter speed selections. I sold it and pretty much came out even. You can buy a used Nikon FM for not too much more.