Want to Buy WTB: Canon Canonet QL17 GIII

[Justin Ribeiro]

Looking for a Canon Canonet QL17 GIII, preferably working (though I'm not averse to repairing). I have twin 8 year old daughters whom my wife and I are starting to teach photography (kids love film), and if you have one camera they can shoot with, you better have two of the same.

I've been hesitant to purchase one on eBay (pricing seems wildly high for untested cameras these days and the descriptions leave much to be desired).

Much appreciate any help. Cheers!

 

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[summicron1]

You know, a couple of Nikon EMs could be had for peanuts, including lenses .... and you wouldn't have to explain rangefinders to 8 year-olds, they'd see the image go fuzzy and sharp. Fully auto only.

 

[Justin Ribeiro]

If I'm honest, I'm a bit nostalgic; I taught my oldest daughter on the Canonet (though she uses one of our OM-1's more these days). That and handling the Canonet is easy on tiny kid hands (though I've not handled the EM). Rangefinder wise I can't deny a few test rolls were a learning experience.

 

[spark]

I fully agree with you on the current ebay environment. You might try a QL19. Slightly slower lens but way down on the hipster prestige meter so lower prices. Also, Lezot Camera in Vermont does a nice job in servicing these cameras. If you get an old grampa-cam with a sticky aperture from sitting in the closet too long it's worth a CLA.

 

[David Lyga]

I fully agree with you on the current ebay environment. You might try a QL19. Slightly slower lens but way down on the hipster prestige meter so lower prices. Also, Lezot Camera in Vermont does a nice job in servicing these cameras. If you get an old grampa-cam with a sticky aperture from sitting in the closet too long it's worth a CLA.

I hope that you will appreciate the fact that what you just said (i.e., 'hipster prestige meter') was truly and uncontrollably funny ... and too true, as well. - David Lyga