Thinking of Buying a Zorki-3

[Tim Tomic]

Hey All,

After being impressed with my first FSU rangefinder (Zorki-1,) I've come to the mindset that another one is in order. I've been looking at the Zorki-3. Has anyone got anything to comment about this camera? (Good or Bad.) Maybe some things i should look out for when purchasing etc. (I've read the Zorki-3 with the slower speed dial on the front of the camera usually has problems.)

Thanks in advance all!

 

[Ron (Netherlands)]

I have the first and second version (one can hardly see any difference). Never had any problems with them. If you are interested just send a pm, because I don't need necessarily two.

 

[hks3sgte]

The Zorki 3C is a nice user. Slow speeds, big viewfinder, not bad looking, I guess... And it's cheaper than a Zorki 4

 

[john341]

Z3 or 3C

Z3 or 3C

I have a 3C which I love. I also have a 3 but the slow speed dial is somewhat erratic the Д setting does not work at all. With a 3C working so well,I can't justify spending the $$$ on getting the Z3 attended to. They are both solid feeling cameras and the shutters sound nice compared to the later Z4 and 4K

 

[fanshaw]

The Zorki-3 is usually bought for its looks. Other Zorkis have more reliable slow speeds.

 

[blazejs]

It's hard to believe Zorki 3C hasn't that collector's value as e.g. Zorki 3. There were much less 3C produced than Z3.

 

[john341]

Z3c

Z3c

Yes, the Zorki 3 is probably bought for its look, it sure looks nice but the 3C , for me its a winner and using it I get the impression of a very sturdy camera.When you pack up to go on holidays, you take a reliable camera..narrows down the choices

 

[ray*j*gun]

I have a 3 and the slow speeds work fine but they do have a rep for jamming. Its the prettiest FSU I think and I have enjoyed using mine very much.......when you get it right its a fine camera!

 

[Sonnar Brian]

I have two Zorki 3M's. Same is the Zorki 3, except the slow speeds are combined on one dial. The slow-speed escapement is readily accessible under the top plate. Easy flood cleaning job. Well worth looking at. The cost is about the same for a Zorki 3.

 

[wolves3012]

The 3 and 3M are rarer and command a higher price. In terms of usability a 3C/4 or 4K is as good (better, if you want to use flash). Allegedly the 3 is more troublesome but I think that's almost certain to be related to servicing (more to the point, lack of). I've just re-curtained my 3M so it's going to get used, once I sort the un-calibratable RF!

 

[TVphotog]

I too have both a 3 and a 3M. I prefer the 3M, but that is mainly due to the fact that the slow speeds on the 3 do not work. I still use it, but only on sunny days. I also have a Z4 that is only 3 years newer than the Z3. I tend to use that more than either of the 3s. Just seems to be a more reliable shooter. Oh yeah, if you watch ebay hard sometimes you can get a deal. I picked up my 3M for 20.00$ due to the fact that it was not listed in the title and was only in one pic of the auction. The rest of the cameras that I got in the lot were junk.