Definitely a candidate for greatest rangefinder ever made and greatest medium format camera ever made. One might disagree but this camera is in the discussion
I own one of these and I can also add that it has one of the easiest rangefinder patch adjustment facilities I've used, and, once adjusted, makes the images extremely sharp. Thanks for the review!
the really cool thing about the 6x6 / 6x7 selector is not only does it mask the film plane but it changes the viewfinder frame lines to match, this would be a great camera for Cosina to reboot :)
A lovely review and you got some outstanding images with it. While the bellows are a risk, I have a good number of 120, 127 and other format bellows cameras, some date back a century. The bellows last, holes are rare. Some of my 60+ year old 120 cameras fit in pocket of my jeans and work perfectly.
Just got my self the W version GF670W. I bought the GF670 back in 2012 and sold it 2014 and regretted it ever sine. So now I bit the burette and got the GF670W. Great review as usual. Thanks, Dominique.
After watching this video a few months ago, I bought one in Germany in about new condition ... the price was crazy high but after two months of use I don't regret this buy because the camera is really really fantastic ! Thank you for your very good and honest reviews ! All the best from Madrid !
At the beginning I asked myself where you always get such grandiose cameras from, that quickly explained itself. I think it's great when you get this and again a great and informative episode. Please keep up the good work!
Great photos as usual. There's something about those medium format lenses.... I don't know. But the Ektachrome shots in the botanical garden blew my mind!
The price of Fuji GF670 keep increasing during the past few years. Seems like more and more people get into the film camera and this modern media format folding camera is a one good choice definitely.
An excellent review of a lovely camera. Not a camera I aspire to own, but it was really interesting to see how it performed. Your photos show how good it is. Well done,
I have a black one and love it very much. This camera's lens is insanely sharp. A lot shaper than any medium format lenses I ever used including Mamiya and Hasselblad. This is an absolute beast from Fuji. Viewfinder is crazy clear. Again, far better than anything including Mamiya, Hasselblad, or Leica (at least film era). Another great thing is that shutter is silent. Compared to this camera, others like Leica M6 shutter sounds like thunder. It is that quiet. Down side is it is not ergonomic at all. Very awkward to hold. I heard fragile but mine is surviving from my abuse so not sure about that claim. And of course crazy expensive. If you can afford, it is worth it every penny. Fuji officially can repair until 2024.
Thank you for this review. I have known about this camera and wanted to know what it is like. I would like one some day. I have used an Agfa super Isolette since 1983 and like it a lot. I have not had trouble with its bellows, they are well made and can take a lot of use. I would think the Fuji bellows are similar quality. A quiet leaf shutter is a joy to use.
really fascinated by medium format but most i see online are the "popular" expensive brands that look big, and this camera and the other fuji that i saw really look welcoming . will definitely be keeping an eye out for more medium format film cameras like this.
Awesome camera I’m a resent convert to folders I have a couple from the 40s and 50s which I love and have just bought a Bessa 2 which I’m fizzing to shoot this weekend. Fine review cheers 📷❤️📷
Hello, On several occasions you compare the GF670 to the Makina 67 by finding advantages that the other would not have such as compactness. The GF670 and the Makina 67 have an almost equivalent compactness. On the other hand, the Makina 67 has some very interesting advantages over the GF670: - Armament: GF670: thumbwheel (slow) vs Makina 67: lever (fast) - Operation: GF670: electric does not work without battery vs Makina 67: fully mechanical, works without battery. The battery is only used for the cell which is not generally useful as it is always preferable to use a hand cell. - Settings: GF670: aperture on the lens and speed on the body vs Makina 67: aperture and speed on the lens which allows a faster adjustment and to couple speed / aperture as on the Hasselblad. - Diphragm opening: GF670: f / 3.5 vs Makina 67: f / 2.8 -Optics: GF670: Fujinon vs Makina 67: Nikon which produces no flare even in backlight with the sun on the lens.
Beautiful camera and great design, just wish the “Voigtländer Bessa” model at least kept the original 6x9 format. @13:52 “vulnerability of bellows” - a valid concern - though if the camera is always closed up when not in use - it is very unlikely to be damaged. My 1930s Bessa 6x9 camera (90 years old!) has original bellows and no issues!
My 1929 Icarette 6x9 folder with f/4.5 Tessar is the same way. Scale focus with wire frame finder, Zeiss bumps here and there, original bellows but still snapping.
I prefer these folding cameras generally, and it is true that the bellow on German folders tend to last forever. However, before you jump on that bandwagon, recall the Fuji GS645. It is an outstanding 645 folder from around 1982. However, its feature most owners recall is that the plastic bellows Fuji used dried out and cracked open with a few years. All GS645 have had a higher quality bellows transplant or sit on a shelf. We have to assume that Fuji, perhaps with input from Cosina, made better choices on this one.
I would be surprised if you couldn't make long lasting bellows with some kind of modern material. Like some kind of cordura fabric or something super strong.
Max, you need bellows therapy. I suggest you try the Maximar 207/7 with Rollei Ortho 25. I love mine especially when I need to "slow down". It still takes great pictures and it even has movements. For pocketable bellows fun, the Perkeo II is what I suggest.
I considered buying it when it was available new as Voigtländer here in Germany. It was available as you said for around 2000 EUR. Now it sells for twice that amount. I obviously should not have waited. But I certainly will not pay that price for a single lens rangefinder. So like many good cameras from the early 2000s, the train has left the station.
Great review - I just recently picked up a 1951 Bessa II 6x9 medium format camera - shot 2 rolls of Ilford Delta 100 120 film this weekend - I'm looking forward to what comes back from it. The Bessa III is out of my price range right now - I'd love to see a comparison between the II and the III. Thanks again.
Also - I wouldn't worry about the bellows - I repaired my Leica IIIf shutter using liquid electrical tape - it's fine now. On any camera that uses a bellows that kind of repair is so much easier as it's all exposed and you don't need to take the camera apart to get to it - it's probably the easiest repair you could do.
How are you liking it? I am considering one as a first medium format camera but I'm slightly worried about the minimum focusing distance and speed of the lens - I love being able to create a very thin depth of field. Otherwise I'm thinking of a Mamiya 645 Pro.
@@simondemeule3934 Wow! I'm literally in the same position!! After alot of consideration those are the two I'm considering and I shoot the same way. What did you go for?
@@GaIvatr0n I ended up staying away from medium format film, instead getting a high quality EF 35mm prime that I can use both on analog (1N) and digital (6D) bodies. This turned out to be a really good choice in hindsight, as I only had access to a 100mm prime at the time; it had a huge impact on my photography. If I would have gone for medium format, I would have went for the 690 - it really seems to be underrated as any film camera with similar negative size and lens quality is comparatively massively expensive.
@@simondemeule3934 Thanks alot SImon. I've got a Sony A7ii with some primes and just picked up a Contax G2 for a steal with a 21mm. The MF is going to fill in the void for ports.. I might get the 690ii in that case as 8 shots would compliment the other cameras on a shoot. THANKS!
Great review. Two questions. What’s the life of the bellows? They look fragile. Also, how accurate is the RF mechanism and is it prone to misalignment?
Max, please make a video on the beautiful and classic Voigtlander Bessa ii Heliar camera. I think its the most beautiful practical 6x9 camera ever made.
No sure about the bellows issue. I have a1950s 6x9 folding camera with no leaks. Plus 3 sets of bellows of medium format Arca Swiss probably 25 years old now. No leaks. Lastly replacement bellows for medium format are around $40US in England. But I agree with other comments that this camera though superb is very pricey. If it was a 6x8 folder with optional replacement lenses and bellows, that’s something that would be worth a lot!! Nice simple informative review btw.
Super video. Wie würdest du die GF670 zur Perkeo vergleichen?. Da ist ja schon ein 10faches an Preisunterschied drin, nur was die Bildqualität angeht? Bin mit der Perkeo 1 aktuell sehr zufrieden und es macht immer noch riesig spass.
The problem with bellows cameras like the Bessa is that it is impossible to hold the lens _100%_ perpendicular to the film plane. The lens is always slightly tilted and cameras using this system, have one end of the film being out of focus. The Kodak Retina got round this problem by supporting the lens on both sides but as you'll see Bessa decided to stick with a totally antiquated lens support mechanism. I like retro and I respect engineers of old but using this type of lens support is just plain stupid.
I got a Mamiya 220 and a 330 and dont have an issue with 3 lens ( 55, 80, 180 ). Aside I have 2 Hasselblad and many problems with the film (the photos are never equally spaced and sometimes overlapped)
I have a Plaubel Makina that dates back from 1933 a 6x9, as the cameras functions work OK, as the lens is razor tach sharp good for Black and White as for color alittle warm for the images, as the Rangefinder window has slightly faded, barely see it when focusing, as someone told me to place a red gel over the window, but could not see the color red, is there something that I am doing wrong..??
If I remember correctly you are supposed to place the coloured gel over the rangefinder window (not the main viewfinder). The idea is that it will help increase the contrast between the patch and the rest of the viewfinder. I have done this with a yellow gel and it did make a difference.
Your demonstration images are a strong selling point for the camera. This camera is still selling between $2000.00 - 3500.00, guess the quality lingers! Hey, how do you think this would match -up to the digital Fuji 50 Megapixel ?
I have both the Fuji GX680 and the GFX. GFX is great for the "we need it yesterday" fashion brigade but when they need big prints - GX all the way - and the 670 isn't a million miles away from the GX - but the lenses on the GX are some of the best out there - detail that doesn't juts hit you but does a hit and run then reverses over you for good measure!!
I have the pentax 645z same sensor as the Fuji and the detail is incredible but kinda a small medium format 33x44 sensor also 6x7 just has a unique look
Very professional review as always. I must say that location when I first saw it I was curious if you would be able to find many shots there but that's what makes photography challenging. I was looking to see how the focusing works and I don't think it was mentioned is it the usual ring around the lens?
Interesting video. Instead of comparing its size with the Mamiya RZ67 I would have compared it with the Mamiya 6 or Mamiya 7, which are easily available for less money.
@Max I recently purchased a Fuji GW690II (for $415 on eBay) which also has a F3.5 EBC lens but with a 90mm fixed lens. It’s massive and heavy. It might be a nice camera to tryout and make a video on.
A very nice camera, but I settled for a Voigtlander Bessa I with 105mm Vaskar which is fully mechanical. The price of the camera and the CLA was only 300.00. The only downside of the Bessa I and II which is the 6x9 negative.
There was also the Bessa III Wide version - non bellows - with a colour Skopar 55!!!! Any time you want to borrow my FUji GX680 III with ALL the lenses and add ons available including Pola backs - just let me know - Simon
All the praise of craftsmanship and compactness... Have you seen Ikonta 521/16 in person? It is primitive, of course, but you get so much for it's 50 eur price...
你知道它的调焦系统可以和其他voigtlander prominent ii或vito iii系列互换吗？我的BESSA2调焦系统坏了。 Do you know that its focusing system can be interchanged with other voigtlander process ii or vito iii series? My BESSA2 focusing system is broken.
I like the specifications for the Fuji GF670 folding rangefinder. It is smaller than my Fuji GS670 rangefinder and it is lighter than my Mamiya RB67 SLR. However, the GF670 is more expensive than my GS670. The GF670 does not have interchangeable lenses like my RB67 and it is not good for macro and portraits like my RB67.
How solid is the lens panel erection mechanism? I have a Bessa I 6x9 which has the excellent Skopar lens but it is soft due to the instability of the lens panel. Nicely made but disappointing. Same problem with the Zeiss 6x9 rollfilm cameras. The most solid lens panel erection systems are on the Ross Selfix series and the Agfa Ventura.
The lens can take an ultra-thin filter while still being foldable. The GF670 (and W) can do double/multiple exposure. You just have to press the shutter release firmly for about half a second to force a second shutter release after the first one.
The image at 2:12 displays some barrel distortion, which seems odd for a lens of this caliber. I have this camera yet I haven't noticed it as much. Thanks for the review.
The lens has minimal distortion, it would not ordinarily be apparent. I think some of what you see is in the clapboards. I have a large monitor and I think my glasses introduce a fair amount of pincushion so... Cheers!
Irvin Martin Thanks for your comment. No, this is completely unrelated. DIN, ASA and ISO are simply different norms/standards (developed over time) to indicate sensitivity to light. Details: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Film_speed
@@AnalogInsights wow, dang, it must be really quiet then. Guess I will have to see one in person to hear. Thanks for replying I'm new to the channel and really enjoy it.
The electronic shutter is so whisper quiet, at times, I do not think there has been an exposure, but the wheel moves to the next frame. Battery life is also excellent. I can try to get a close-up of the sound, but think of it as just a bit more quiet than a Rolleiflex and more so at slower shutter speeds as there is no escapement involved. I hope this helps.
Shorter focal length meaning wider angle? There's a sister camera, the Fuji GF670W, which has a 55mm f/4.5 lens, and no bellows. genotypewritings.blogspot.com/2013/10/fuji-gf670w-rangefinder-review.html#:~:text=The%20GF670W%20is%20a%20very,beats%20it%20in%20a%20rangefinder.
May I ask you and other users advice for buying film camera? I shot film only couple times 20 years ago or so. I have very very tight budget, approx $100 for body+lens (maybe little more). I thought about Nikon F90x (N90s), and I also found Nikon F4 body but it's $193, seller claimed that only ~1200 shots been made. Essentially I want a camera which combines auto functions with fully mechanical, some kind of a hybrid, in order not to depend on batteries, and being able to shoot in every conditions, but also having an option to use aperture priority and metering and other more modern stuff (with batteries of course) like in F90 and F4. But I have no idea if that type of film cameras even exist or not. I hope my clunky explanation is more or less clear...
An F100 is pretty cheap now and it's just about as automated as a modern digital. It doesn't do mirror lock up which is it's main downside. Lenses are $$ however.
Two comments: (1) If you can find a Nikon F100 you can afford, buy it. I've owned a majority of Nikon models over many years. My F100 is the last and best. (2) I have used a Fuji GS645 (folder 645) for years and like it. I looked forward to buying the 670, but the $2,500 price on its introduction was an instant deal-killer. Given all the electronic problems the 670 proved to develop, coupled to the lack of Fuji support re parts and repairs, you'd be out of your mind to buy one, new or used. I say "new", because when Fuji decided to orphan the 670, they dumped the remaining warehouse full of cameras on B&H in NYC, which went through hell trying to unload them. They may still be holding a few units. (No, B&H cannot and will not back the warranty.)
I was thinking "Hey, a cool folder MF camera", then saw the comments on orice and checked it. Nah, old Olympus and Fujica folders are completely fine with me
This is evidently a marvelous instrument, but the price of course is off-putting. The Fuji is evidently more advanced than my $200 Zeiss folder, but this would not justify the enormous financial jump for me. In terms of use, my Zeiss would be at least 90 percent as good. Cavil 1: I am not remotely interested in the beauty of the film counter. I want to know if the interior of the lens barrel is threaded for filters. If not, this would render this camera for me a useless piece of jewelry. Cavil 2: The scenes of the photographer wandering around, accompanied by new age music, should not, in my opinion, eat into the time available for a detailed technical discussion. In general, this was a competent and engaging review of an amazing camera.
I am thinking that your photos after being scanned and put into a video are not nearly so spectacular as the original. The print versions are probably really great.
Definitely a candidate for greatest rangefinder ever made and greatest medium format camera ever made. One might disagree but this camera is in the discussion
I own one of these and I can also add that it has one of the easiest rangefinder patch adjustment facilities I've used, and, once adjusted, makes the images extremely sharp. Thanks for the review!
Scott Micciche does the focus need to be changed to infinity to close the bellows? I thought that was a concern with one of the Fuji folders?
@@bthemedia It does, as well as all filters and the hood removed in order to fold. The lens coating is so good, I've only used the hood once.
@@ScottMicciche An ultra-thin filter actually allows it to fold. I use the Cokin Pure Harmonie UV for protection.
@@mackrun7029 I must acquire this :) Thank you!
the really cool thing about the 6x6 / 6x7 selector is not only does it mask the film plane but it changes the viewfinder frame lines to match, this would be a great camera for Cosina to reboot :)
matt jones That’s true. I should have shown that clearer in the video. Thanks for your comment. :)
Thanks for reviewing this camera. I have been following this camera since 2013. Beautifully made review.
When I see this in my feed! Always premium content!
Theodore Thanks so much for your comment. This means a lot to me.
A lovely review and you got some outstanding images with it. While the bellows are a risk, I have a good number of 120, 127 and other format bellows cameras, some date back a century. The bellows last, holes are rare. Some of my 60+ year old 120 cameras fit in pocket of my jeans and work perfectly.
Just got my self the W version GF670W. I bought the GF670 back in 2012 and sold it 2014 and regretted it ever sine. So now I bit the burette and got the GF670W. Great review as usual.
Thanks,
Dominique.
How do you like it so far after 4 years? Still own it? Less fragile without the bellow… and wide angle 😅
After watching this video a few months ago, I bought one in Germany in about new condition ... the price was crazy high but after two months of use I don't regret this buy because the camera is really really fantastic ! Thank you for your very good and honest reviews ! All the best from Madrid !
Do you still have it?
At the beginning I asked myself where you always get such grandiose cameras from, that quickly explained itself. I think it's great when you get this and again a great and informative episode. Please keep up the good work!
Great photos as usual. There's something about those medium format lenses.... I don't know.
But the Ektachrome shots in the botanical garden blew my mind!
The price of Fuji GF670 keep increasing during the past few years. Seems like more and more people get into the film camera and this modern media format folding camera is a one good choice definitely.
now its 3k
@@waveril5167 Keep going…
@@waveril5167 It sure is. Amazing.
Cool. Until I saw the price. You can get a Mamiya 7 for that.
Sadly, Mamiya 7 is way more expensive than this nowadays.
@@ricedumplings3767 how the times change!
@@floatingpoints1507what do i say now… mamiya 7 now literally costs 6x what this camera costs.
An excellent review of a lovely camera. Not a camera I aspire to own, but it was really interesting to see how it performed. Your photos show how good it is. Well done,
I use to have one and yes it is amazing, you can get one with a fix lens (No bellows) I sold it and got a Hasselblad. But truly and amazing camera.
I have just purchased one!! It was super expensive but I am really excited!!
I’ve always wanted that camera. But it’s too expensive, even now.
It was actually cheaper new than it is now.
seems like even in the past 6 months the prices on these things have risen on ebay from min $2100 to min $2300
Me too
Me too and it probably will continue to rise in price.
I feel like an investment guru since I bought mine in 2015 for $1500 Canadian 🧐
Hab seit Jahren von Ihr geträumt- danke Euch für die Vorstellung
Thank you so much for your review and your amazing channel! Stay inspired and keep shooting!
I have a black one and love it very much. This camera's lens is insanely sharp. A lot shaper than any medium format lenses I ever used including Mamiya and Hasselblad. This is an absolute beast from Fuji. Viewfinder is crazy clear. Again, far better than anything including Mamiya, Hasselblad, or Leica (at least film era). Another great thing is that shutter is silent. Compared to this camera, others like Leica M6 shutter sounds like thunder. It is that quiet. Down side is it is not ergonomic at all. Very awkward to hold. I heard fragile but mine is surviving from my abuse so not sure about that claim. And of course crazy expensive. If you can afford, it is worth it every penny. Fuji officially can repair until 2024.
Thank you for this review. I have known about this camera and wanted to know what it is like. I would like one some day. I have used an Agfa super Isolette since 1983 and like it a lot. I have not had trouble with its bellows, they are well made and can take a lot of use. I would think the Fuji bellows are similar quality. A quiet leaf shutter is a joy to use.
Loved the expired Ektachrome shots!
Thanks...a nice informative & relaxing watch as always.
What an great video! Always happy to learn about interesting cameras :)
Guys, you always review the cameras I am after.
really fascinated by medium format but most i see online are the "popular" expensive brands that look big, and this camera and the other fuji that i saw really look welcoming . will definitely be keeping an eye out for more medium format film cameras like this.
Awesome camera I’m a resent convert to folders I have a couple from the 40s and 50s which I love and have just bought a Bessa 2 which I’m fizzing to shoot this weekend. Fine review cheers 📷❤️📷
Hello,
On several occasions you compare the GF670 to the Makina 67 by finding advantages that the other would not have such as compactness. The GF670 and the Makina 67 have an almost equivalent compactness. On the other hand, the Makina 67 has some very interesting advantages over the GF670:
- Armament:
GF670: thumbwheel (slow) vs Makina 67: lever (fast)
- Operation:
GF670: electric does not work without battery vs Makina 67: fully mechanical, works without battery. The battery is only used for the cell which is not generally useful as it is always preferable to use a hand cell.
- Settings:
GF670: aperture on the lens and speed on the body vs Makina 67: aperture and speed on the lens which allows a faster adjustment and to couple speed / aperture as on the Hasselblad.
- Diphragm opening:
GF670: f / 3.5 vs Makina 67: f / 2.8
-Optics:
GF670: Fujinon vs Makina 67: Nikon which produces no flare even in backlight with the sun on the lens.
Beautiful camera and great design, just wish the “Voigtländer Bessa” model at least kept the original 6x9 format.
@13:52 “vulnerability of bellows” - a valid concern - though if the camera is always closed up when not in use - it is very unlikely to be damaged. My 1930s Bessa 6x9 camera (90 years old!) has original bellows and no issues!
My 1929 Icarette 6x9 folder with f/4.5 Tessar is the same way. Scale focus with wire frame finder, Zeiss bumps here and there, original bellows but still snapping.
I prefer these folding cameras generally, and it is true that the bellow on German folders tend to last forever. However, before you jump on that bandwagon, recall the Fuji GS645. It is an outstanding 645 folder from around 1982. However, its feature most owners recall is that the plastic bellows Fuji used dried out and cracked open with a few years. All GS645 have had a higher quality bellows transplant or sit on a shelf. We have to assume that Fuji, perhaps with input from Cosina, made better choices on this one.
I would be surprised if you couldn't make long lasting bellows with some kind of modern material. Like some kind of cordura fabric or something super strong.
I could have had a mint one for $1200. I just didn't have the money. Great video.
Max, you need bellows therapy. I suggest you try the Maximar 207/7 with Rollei Ortho 25. I love mine especially when I need to "slow down". It still takes great pictures and it even has movements. For pocketable bellows fun, the Perkeo II is what I suggest.
Is Jules a shy person...he never talks 🥺
yep
How many years expired was that Ektachrome? I really like that blue effect.
I want one so bad... I hop some day buy one. Amazing design and amazing lens!
You should take a look at vintage Welta folders. Almost 100 years old and still deliver great results. I have 6x6 and 6x9 versions and they are great!
I considered buying it when it was available new as Voigtländer here in Germany. It was available as you said for around 2000 EUR. Now it sells for twice that amount. I obviously should not have waited. But I certainly will not pay that price for a single lens rangefinder.
So like many good cameras from the early 2000s, the train has left the station.
$3,500USD 6/25/20 Wow. What a beautiful camera.
Great review - I just recently picked up a 1951 Bessa II 6x9 medium format camera - shot 2 rolls of Ilford Delta 100 120 film this weekend - I'm looking forward to what comes back from it. The Bessa III is out of my price range right now - I'd love to see a comparison between the II and the III. Thanks again.
Also - I wouldn't worry about the bellows - I repaired my Leica IIIf shutter using liquid electrical tape - it's fine now. On any camera that uses a bellows that kind of repair is so much easier as it's all exposed and you don't need to take the camera apart to get to it - it's probably the easiest repair you could do.
@@steveborghardt Highly toxic as well. Curious to know if you chose this over some silicone based sealant? Thanks.
I was thinking of getting one of these, but they're a bit pricey. I ended up opting for the amazing GW690ii.
How are you liking it? I am considering one as a first medium format camera but I'm slightly worried about the minimum focusing distance and speed of the lens - I love being able to create a very thin depth of field. Otherwise I'm thinking of a Mamiya 645 Pro.
@@simondemeule3934 Wow! I'm literally in the same position!! After alot of consideration those are the two I'm considering and I shoot the same way. What did you go for?
@@GaIvatr0n I ended up staying away from medium format film, instead getting a high quality EF 35mm prime that I can use both on analog (1N) and digital (6D) bodies. This turned out to be a really good choice in hindsight, as I only had access to a 100mm prime at the time; it had a huge impact on my photography. If I would have gone for medium format, I would have went for the 690 - it really seems to be underrated as any film camera with similar negative size and lens quality is comparatively massively expensive.
@@simondemeule3934 Thanks alot SImon. I've got a Sony A7ii with some primes and just picked up a Contax G2 for a steal with a 21mm. The MF is going to fill in the void for ports.. I might get the 690ii in that case as 8 shots would compliment the other cameras on a shoot. THANKS!
Great review. Two questions. What’s the life of the bellows? They look fragile. Also, how accurate is the RF mechanism and is it prone to misalignment?
Really liked the color shots at the end.
Excellent video - thanks guys :- )
Great review thanks! Looks like a dream camera
Nice video of a nice camera! The price has doubled since last time I've checked :-(
The man does not yell and there is no suicidal piano player in the background. That's a like. But I do not want to break the 666.
Considered the camera at some point but the rendering of the Mamiya 6 or 7, very sharp but no 3D pop.
I have an Agfa isolate 1 this would be a great update for me hopefully can get my hands on it one day.
Beautiful shots
Nice video and camera, i really enjoyed it thanks
Max, please make a video on the beautiful and classic Voigtlander Bessa ii Heliar camera. I think its the most beautiful practical 6x9 camera ever made.
Thank you for the hint. I'll take a closer look at it.
As always excellent video.
Just wondering if the bellows are delicate and can break. What kind of material is it?
Great review! I am curious how big the focusing patch is and the film advance looks like. Looks like a great camera.
No sure about the bellows issue. I have a1950s 6x9 folding camera with no leaks. Plus 3 sets of bellows of medium format Arca Swiss probably 25 years old now. No leaks. Lastly replacement bellows for medium format are around $40US in England. But I agree with other comments that this camera though superb is very pricey. If it was a 6x8 folder with optional replacement lenses and bellows, that’s something that would be worth a lot!!
Nice simple informative review btw.
Super video. Wie würdest du die GF670 zur Perkeo vergleichen?. Da ist ja schon ein 10faches an Preisunterschied drin, nur was die Bildqualität angeht? Bin mit der Perkeo 1 aktuell sehr zufrieden und es macht immer noch riesig spass.
The problem with bellows cameras like the Bessa is that it is impossible to hold the lens _100%_ perpendicular to the film plane. The lens is always slightly tilted and cameras using this system, have one end of the film being out of focus. The Kodak Retina got round this problem by supporting the lens on both sides but as you'll see Bessa decided to stick with a totally antiquated lens support mechanism. I like retro and I respect engineers of old but using this type of lens support is just plain stupid.
Turns out it's not really a problem that shows in the results. The designers knew what they were doing.
I got a Mamiya 220 and a 330 and dont have an issue with 3 lens ( 55, 80, 180 ). Aside I have 2 Hasselblad and many problems with the film (the photos are never equally spaced and sometimes overlapped)
I have a Plaubel Makina that dates back from 1933 a 6x9, as the cameras functions work OK, as the lens is razor tach sharp good for Black and White as for color alittle warm for the images, as the Rangefinder window has slightly faded, barely see it when focusing, as someone told me to place a red gel over the window, but could not see the color red, is there something that I am doing wrong..??
If I remember correctly you are supposed to place the coloured gel over the rangefinder window (not the main viewfinder). The idea is that it will help increase the contrast between the patch and the rest of the viewfinder. I have done this with a yellow gel and it did make a difference.
Your demonstration images are a strong selling point for the camera. This camera is still selling between $2000.00 - 3500.00, guess the quality lingers! Hey, how do you think this would match -up to the digital Fuji 50 Megapixel ?
I have both the Fuji GX680 and the GFX. GFX is great for the "we need it yesterday" fashion brigade but when they need big prints - GX all the way - and the 670 isn't a million miles away from the GX - but the lenses on the GX are some of the best out there - detail that doesn't juts hit you but does a hit and run then reverses over you for good measure!!
Awesome camera but wayway overpriced I love the format and have a rb 67 and lenses also a Fuji gs 645 if it was 1000 us dollars I'd snatch one one up
I have the pentax 645z same sensor as the Fuji and the detail is incredible but kinda a small medium format 33x44 sensor also 6x7 just has a unique look
Very professional review as always. I must say that location when I first saw it I was curious if you would be able to find many shots there but that's what makes photography challenging. I was looking to see how the focusing works and I don't think it was mentioned is it the usual ring around the lens?
Hello PM everyting Irie on my end. good to see you also. this is one of the most pro grade analog channels, Im right in their heels lol.
Interesting video. Instead of comparing its size with the Mamiya RZ67 I would have compared it with the Mamiya 6 or Mamiya 7, which are easily available for less money.
Yes, point well taken. We should have considered that. :)
@Max I recently purchased a Fuji GW690II (for $415 on eBay) which also has a F3.5 EBC lens but with a 90mm fixed lens. It’s massive and heavy. It might be a nice camera to tryout and make a video on.
Your voice is soothing
A very nice camera, but I settled for
a Voigtlander Bessa I with 105mm Vaskar which is fully mechanical. The price of the camera and the CLA was only 300.00. The only downside of the Bessa I and II which is the 6x9 negative.
There was also the Bessa III Wide version - non bellows - with a colour Skopar 55!!!! Any time you want to borrow my FUji GX680 III with ALL the lenses and add ons available including Pola backs - just let me know - Simon
All the praise of craftsmanship and compactness... Have you seen Ikonta 521/16 in person? It is primitive, of course, but you get so much for it's 50 eur price...
Loved those exp. Ektachrome shots
Fellow Citizen Thanks so much. Glad to hear you liked them.
Where did you get your black leather bag??? It looks really nice 👍
This is an Oberwerth bag which can be found on www.oberwerth.com. You can get 10% off using the code “analoginsights”.
@@AnalogInsights thank you kind sir
你知道它的调焦系统可以和其他voigtlander prominent ii或vito iii系列互换吗？我的BESSA2调焦系统坏了。
Do you know that its focusing system can be interchanged with other voigtlander process ii or vito iii series? My BESSA2 focusing system is broken.
Very inspiring video! Thank you! Could you please give me a hint where I can get those very slow and relaxing version of the music?
I like it, but a bit too rich for me! Great video.
I like the specifications for the Fuji GF670 folding rangefinder. It is smaller than my Fuji GS670 rangefinder and it is lighter than my Mamiya RB67 SLR.
However, the GF670 is more expensive than my GS670.
The GF670 does not have interchangeable lenses like my RB67 and it is not good for macro and portraits like my RB67.
How solid is the lens panel erection mechanism? I have a Bessa I 6x9 which has the excellent Skopar lens but it is soft due to the instability of the lens panel. Nicely made but disappointing. Same problem with the Zeiss 6x9 rollfilm cameras. The most solid lens panel erection systems are on the Ross Selfix series and the Agfa Ventura.
The lens can take an ultra-thin filter while still being foldable. The GF670 (and W) can do double/multiple exposure. You just have to press the shutter release firmly for about half a second to force a second shutter release after the first one.
The image at 2:12 displays some barrel distortion, which seems odd for a lens of this caliber. I have this camera yet I haven't noticed it as much. Thanks for the review.
The lens has minimal distortion, it would not ordinarily be apparent. I think some of what you see is in the clapboards. I have a large monitor and I think my glasses introduce a fair amount of pincushion so... Cheers!
Are you able to provide a credit for the music, please?
It's quite beautiful and haunting.
I second that. What's the music at the end?
Another lovely video, thank you. What is the song in the background?
Nice rev. Bigger lens probably means bigger camera, the Plaubel has a 2.8 lens... and is nearly forty years old.
The Makina isn't really that much bigger. It's heavier by 400grams, less because of the f/2.8 lens than because of the metal construction.
I have the 1940 version and shoot both 120 and 35mm with an adapter. The older models work fine, but the lens and shutter should be cleaned .
Why does a film camera have a setting for ISO. Wouldn’t film be ASA?
Irvin Martin Thanks for your comment. No, this is completely unrelated. DIN, ASA and ISO are simply different norms/standards (developed over time) to indicate sensitivity to light. Details: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Film_speed
I really wished you would of showed off the shutter sound. There's no videos I found of it.
jokesNgiggles I actually tried but it is almost impossible to hear on my footage. It is really, really quiet.
@@AnalogInsights wow, dang, it must be really quiet then. Guess I will have to see one in person to hear. Thanks for replying I'm new to the channel and really enjoy it.
The electronic shutter is so whisper quiet, at times, I do not think there has been an exposure, but the wheel moves to the next frame. Battery life is also excellent. I can try to get a close-up of the sound, but think of it as just a bit more quiet than a Rolleiflex and more so at slower shutter speeds as there is no escapement involved. I hope this helps.
Was there ever a version with a lens of shorter focal length? It would have been a 'no brainer' for me. ♡
But that 80mm still looks very appealing.
Shorter focal length meaning wider angle? There's a sister camera, the Fuji GF670W, which has a 55mm f/4.5 lens, and no bellows.
genotypewritings.blogspot.com/2013/10/fuji-gf670w-rangefinder-review.html#:~:text=The%20GF670W%20is%20a%20very,beats%20it%20in%20a%20rangefinder.
Fuji GF670 / 670W or Mamiya 6 //?
Is there also a wide-angle verson?
There is: GF670w, 55mm lens, no bellows so a bit thicker and slightly heavier, pricier too unfortunately - always wanted one!
Very good reviews as usual. May I suggest to use a warmer lighting? It looks a bit like a medical ad IMHO :)
Thanks for your comment. Yes, I accidentally overexposed the living room scenes quite a bit. Sorry about that. Will be better next time again. :)
😂
The way you speak, u should be a dream for tons of ladies, man))
Thanks but no. Just for one, my Philly. :)
@@AnalogInsights aha)
good then
great reviews!
have learnt a lot of good info about film cameras, thank you!
It shouldn’t be any harder to focus than say a 35mm f1.4 for on full frame for example?
Super.
I don't think this camera really uses bellow focusing since it's the lens itself does the focus not bellow, and so do other folding cameras
It's such a beautiful camera. But hella expenisive
And the big question... What about the parallax when you framing?
auto correction, like Leica
Can it operate without batteries?
It's called FILM. Both the sensor in your digital camera and the film in a film camera is analog. So which is it for you?
Analog signals CONVERTED to digital... NOT the same.
May I ask you and other users advice for buying film camera?
I shot film only couple times 20 years ago or so. I have very very tight budget, approx $100 for body+lens (maybe little more). I thought about Nikon F90x (N90s), and I also found Nikon F4 body but it's $193, seller claimed that only ~1200 shots been made. Essentially I want a camera which combines auto functions with fully mechanical, some kind of a hybrid, in order not to depend on batteries, and being able to shoot in every conditions, but also having an option to use aperture priority and metering and other more modern stuff (with batteries of course) like in F90 and F4. But I have no idea if that type of film cameras even exist or not. I hope my clunky explanation is more or less clear...
An F100 is pretty cheap now and it's just about as automated as a modern digital. It doesn't do mirror lock up which is it's main downside. Lenses are $$ however.
Two comments: (1) If you can find a Nikon F100 you can afford, buy it. I've owned a majority of Nikon models over many years. My F100 is the last and best. (2) I have used a Fuji GS645 (folder 645) for years and like it. I looked forward to buying the 670, but the $2,500 price on its introduction was an instant deal-killer. Given all the electronic problems the 670 proved to develop, coupled to the lack of Fuji support re parts and repairs, you'd be out of your mind to buy one, new or used. I say "new", because when Fuji decided to orphan the 670, they dumped the remaining warehouse full of cameras on B&H in NYC, which went through hell trying to unload them. They may still be holding a few units. (No, B&H cannot and will not back the warranty.)
Is the rangefinder a true rangefinder or is it just a viewfinder?
True rangefinder.
I was thinking "Hey, a cool folder MF camera", then saw the comments on orice and checked it. Nah, old Olympus and Fujica folders are completely fine with me
"bellows" are a risk.... so is owning a Mamiya 7 that is literally built to fall apart.
I have a Zeiss Ikon Ikonta that's from 1940's and the bellows are still in good shape
There’s a Bessa iii 667 version on eBay right now... that almost never happens
why do you add reverb to your voice . . . ?
It is my living room. Sorry. :)
But I don't get why it's from fuji and not Voiglander
This is evidently a marvelous instrument, but the price of course is off-putting. The Fuji is evidently more advanced than my $200 Zeiss folder, but this would not justify the enormous financial jump for me. In terms of use, my Zeiss would be at least 90 percent as good.
Cavil 1: I am not remotely interested in the beauty of the film counter. I want to know if the interior of the lens barrel is threaded for filters. If not, this would render this camera for me a useless piece of jewelry.
Cavil 2: The scenes of the photographer wandering around, accompanied by new age music, should not, in my opinion, eat into the time available for a detailed technical discussion.
In general, this was a competent and engaging review of an amazing camera.
I am thinking that your photos after being scanned and put into a video are not nearly so spectacular as the original. The print versions are probably really great.