Newbie

[maajka]

Hi,
I'm thinking about selling my SLR stuff and getting an RF, mainly because of the quiet shutter and smaller size.
I know RF systems are pretty expensive, but there must be something affordable out there. My budget would be ~650$.
Since I prefer mechanical cameras with built in meter I was thinking about Bessa R2M, for lens Nokton 40mm seems nice but even used this combo would be more than 650$.
Any similar options?
Thanks

 

[Al Kaplan]

The Bessa shutter isn't exactly quiet compared to Leica's shutter. You should be able to pick up a used leaf shutter fixed lens rangefinder by Canon or Konica for a LOT less than $650. Try it for awhile and see if you like rangefinder cameras.

 

[tbarker13]

How about a Canon P and a screw-mount lens? Paired with a Canon 50/1.8 would be a nice option. I haven't priced them lately, but you might even be able to get a Canon P and a Canon 50/1.4 for your budget.

But if you are very patient, every so often an M2 or M3 pops up in the classified section for in the $400-$500 range. With the right lens, you would be in the ballpark of $600, though you might be pushed a little over.

 

[Phantomas]

You can always start with an old soviet rangefinder at almost zero cost, get used to it and save a few more $ for a modern RF.
Fed or Zorki (not very quite though).
As far as something modern goes Bessa would still be your best bet on a budget. I think if you shop around you might come across a (beaten but functional) Bessa + lens combo for $650.

 

[FA Limited]

if you hang out in the classifieds long enough, you should be able to piece together some kind of a used bessa system

 

[maajka]

thanks guys, i'll check the classifieds from time to time

 

[ilchkai]

i have to second Al from above... I have got a Bessa r3a and it is quite noisy albeit in a nice mechanical sort of way (about as noisy as my SLR). not really good if you want to use it surreptitiously...

 

[maajka]

Well OK, I think I'll try to get an M6, f@#$ it 🙂
I've seen a few sell for 800-900$ so I'll just stretch the budget 'a little'.

 

[maajka]

This went fast, I just purchased an M6 body from ebay germany, and a Zeiss Planar. Costed more than I planed to spend, but it's worth it.
Can't wait to receive it.
Cheers