Not to totally hijack this thread, but has anyone here ever used one of the "motorized" backs for the RB? They have 6x7 and 6x8 backs that are self-propelled and run on a bunch of AA batteries. I'm thinking about one to eliminate the wind-the-film step when cocking the shutter. How do they do this, and how well do they do it? Is it still something you have to manually trigger, or does it run when you re-cock the shutter?
The winder isn't for landscape shooting or travel - really just for working with people in a fast-moving environment, at least the way I'd use it.
Not to totally hijack this thread, but has anyone here ever used one of the "motorized" backs for the RB? They have 6x7 and 6x8 backs that are self-propelled and run on a bunch of AA batteries. I'm thinking about one to eliminate the wind-the-film step when cocking the shutter. How do they do this, and how well do they do it? Is it still something you have to manually trigger, or does it run when you re-cock the shutter?
I really love my RB67. A while back I purchased the Pro-S and with prices at an attractive level it's a great foray into the world of medium format. Tack sharp lenses as well.
It is, however, a behemoth. If you're using it on location frequently or roaming about with it you'll start to wish you'd bought something lighter.
Another potential hijack.. doea anyone know how many Polaroid back types were made for the RB? I have two, one with P-back adapter and one that mounts without it.
Wayne, when i actually got into MF, specifically the RB67, i *knew* at that point what i wanted after having asked a million questions here and elsewhere. I also saw that the true value of the camera/system far, far exceeded it's then-current market price (even at todays increasing prices the system is still a fantastic value).
Gone are the days, accepting the exceptions, of truly cheap RB67 prices. Sure, it's possible to come across someone ditching their gear, but that's becoming the notable exception.I think whats left is the beat-up, hard-used stuff from old Pro's gear closets. If someone else tells you different, they haven't been studying the market closely nor recently.
I've been closely watching the prices of these things (bodies/lenses/backs specifically) since i bought mine (searching for "bargain purchases" on different components) and seen the prices going nowhere but up and the quantity available diminish. The 'word' is out and has been (even before i bought mine...).
Don't be discouraged though as it's an excellent system to invest in. You're into LF so i suspect you know a thing or two about camera systems.
For me, to increase my photography budget capability i sold off some then-prized 35mm gear and it was sooooo worth it. I don't miss it *at all* and am absolutely enthralled with my RB67 Pro-S kit. I did buy it component by component which allowed me to choose the exact items i wanted and at good prices.
The "gold rush" on RB gear began earlier than you think. It was really 5-7 years ago, when both junk and jewels were on the market and the future of film didn't look as clouded as it does today(e.g., EK's dismal share prices). KEH is selling off NOS Mamiya gear cheap. Much of the over-priced schlock on the big auction site is re-listed repeatedly while the better stuff moves, sometimes at fair prices. There may be less on the market now, though eBay usually has 500 +/- listings under "Mamiya RB." Point is, I don't see a measurable uptick in crap RB gear relative to acceptable quality stuff. Mint/NOS RB gear has always been scarce but not always expensive.
Systems like Bronica SQ have gone up, largely due to its status as the only modern 6x6 SLR alternative to Hasselblad. Late model SQ-Ai/SQ-B bodies, 120 backs, and harder-to-find PS series lenses in EX+ shape are pricey.
I can get an RB Pro with 90m non-C lens, 120 back and waist level finder for $175. Should I jump on it? I'd rather have a Pro-S, and I'd rather pay less than 175 for a Pro (I offered 150), but my budget is only going to be shrinking as the winter wears on.
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