RICOH DIACORD L

[anthonym3]

Opinions of this camera.,Any users out there?

 

[Dan Daniel]

Maybe you could post an image or a link? I get lost with the Ricoh naming system but recognize the actual cameras, if that makes sense (Minolta Autocords are a total mess this way, with what appears to be three different systems out here applied in random ways over something like 12 slight variations over the years...).

 

[BAC1967]

I just recently purchased one, so far I have only put one roll of film through it but I do like it. I have two Rolleiflex Automats but I wanted a TLR with a light meter. The light meter on mine appears to be quite accurate though it may take a few more rolls for me to fully trust it. The first shot was through a window in my house so that probably had an effect on the image quality. The two closeup shots below were done with a Rondo closeup attachment, I wanted to make sure it worked well with this camera, it’s an accessory every TLR should have. Mine took a bit of work to get the shutter firing properly but I think I have it sorted out. For $55 I think this was a great buy. The one big difference from my Rolleiflex is the focus, just make sure to use both thumbs on both of the focus levers to control it best. You should quickly get the hang of it. Maybe not quite as sharp as my Rolleiflex but it’s a really nice, well built camera.

Ricoh Diacord L by Bryan Chernick, on Flickr

Tree Removal by Bryan Chernick, on Flickr

Chemistry by Bryan Chernick, on Flickr

Zeiss Ikon Super Ikonta 530 by Bryan Chernick, on Flickr

 

[hsandler]

I'm a big fan. I wrote a review here: https://www.filmshooterscollective....f-the-humble-ricoh-diacord-howard-sandler-8-3
I have a gallery of samples here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/hsandler/albums/72157639088827066

 

[anthonym3]

I just recently purchased one, so far I have only put one roll of film through it but I do like it. I have two Rolleiflex Automats but I wanted a TLR with a light meter. The light meter on mine appears to be quite accurate though it may take a few more rolls for me to fully trust it. The first shot was through a window in my house so that probably had an effect on the image quality. The two closeup shots below were done with a Rondo closeup attachment, I wanted to make sure it worked well with this camera, it’s an accessory every TLR should have. Mine took a bit of work to get the shutter firing properly but I think I have it sorted out. For $55 I think this was a great buy. The one big difference from my Rolleiflex is the focus, just make sure to use both thumbs on both of the focus levers to control it best. You should quickly get the hang of it. Maybe not quite as sharp as my Rolleiflex but it’s a really nice, well built camera.

Ricoh Diacord L by Bryan Chernick, on Flickr

Tree Removal by Bryan Chernick, on Flickr

Chemistry by Bryan Chernick, on Flickr

Zeiss Ikon Super Ikonta 530 by Bryan Chernick, on Flickr

 

[anthonym3]

I love that little gem ZEISS!

 

[Dan Daniel]

Thanks for the photo, BAC. I've worked on a couple of them and they are well-made machines. Not as finally machined as a Rolleiflex. Different helical design than the Autocord, not as heavy and well-machined as the Autocord, but still nicely made. Your recent Ikoflex is again a little bit more robust than the Ricoh (but a mechanical melange of amazing uniqueness as Zeiss jumped through hoops to not step on Rollei's patents, I guess). I'd say it's slightly better than a YashicaMat in overall design and finish. Considering the typical price they go for, quite a bargain.

 

[BAC1967]

I really do like the Zeiss, it's so compact I can take it anywhere. My record with Yashica TLR's is 0 for 3, I gave up and went with the Ricoh. It was Howard's review that convinced me to go with it.