Value of Fuji 645zi, with LCD problem?

[gdi]

I am interested in a black 645zi for what seems to be a good price, but it has a problem with the LCD not displaying all characters (I read that this is common.) Other than that is in good user condition with some scratches and paint wear.

Any on know what one might be worth and the approximate cost to fix the display? Also, I believe the display is critical to using the camera, is this correct?

Thanks

 

[wintoid]

I paid £400 for my silver one. The black is rarer I think. The LCD is only really needed for setting ISO as far as I know.

 

[divewizard]

I would completely avoid one with a LCD issue. You need for almost all of the adjustments, it is the only indication of the settings. It is almost useless without the display working. Once an LCD issues with part not working, the failure rest of the LCD will not be far behind.
It is only a good deal for the guy selling it.

 

[dovi]

depends

depends

I have one with the lcd malfunctioning. I malfunctions in a way that if i press the LCD I can see enough Info to set ISO and check compensation. For the most part it is useable.

Knowing what I now am dealing with:

I would state the concern about useability and see if the seller will let you use the camera for a day or three so you can determine it's useability.

Otherwise I would only deal with a reputable shop that you can return stuff to.

I never looked into repairs so if someone knows where repairs can be done I would appreciate it.

 

[gdi]

I have one with the lcd malfunctioning. I malfunctions in a way that if i press the LCD I can see enough Info to set ISO and check compensation. For the most part it is useable.

Knowing what I now am dealing with:

I would state the concern about useability and see if the seller will let you use the camera for a day or three so you can determine it's useability.

Otherwise I would only deal with a reputable shop that you can return stuff to.

I never looked into repairs so if someone knows where repairs can be done I would appreciate it.

Thanks - I have read that Camera Wiz can fix them but I don't know the price.

 

[gdi]

It is only a good deal for the guy selling it.

That would be true if the camera could never be fixed. But since it can, it is an economics decision.

 

[sevo]

That would be true if the camera could never be fixed. But since it can, it is an economics decision.

Well, these cameras were expensive originally, and even if your regional Fuji repair contractor still fixes them, their price might reflect that (I was given a quote for a mere CLA higher than what I paid for the entire camera). And if there are no more spares, you'd even need to buy a second broken camera with good display...

About two years ago one seller was offering a NOS Zi rear door assembly spare part on ebay at around $100 - but I haven't seen another one since then, and broken Zi's with a working display are scarce, as the display generally is the first component to go bad.

I'd say go for it if you get it dirt cheap (i.e. at 100€ or less) and/or find one of these spare doors still around. Otherwise, buying it for repair seems rather unprofitable. If you get it at half market price (i.e. somewhere in the mid 200's) and need another similarly priced one for the spare display you'd already have paid full market value before having it repaired.

Another option would be to pick it up to run only Fuji film in it - the ISO of that will be read off the leader barcode, eliminating the most important reason to have the display. But YMMV as to how long Fuji will still code their film (other makers have already switched to generic leaders for all their film) or even make any type you consider desirable (they already are down to one black and white type).

 

[kuzano]

The LCD display may still be available from Fuji

The LCD display may still be available from Fuji

Frank Marshman at Camera Wiz... Harrisburg PA has good access to Fuji part department. About two years ago he replaced the LCD on the back of my Fuji 645Zi with new. Very reasonably in my opinion. Don't want to be quoting or implying price for Frank out of respect, but it was way less than I anticipated. (parts and labor-new lcd) I Could not pass up the price for the job.

My Zi had over 30,000 shutter actuations on it, and Frank said the data cable passing through where the door swings is the problem.

My experience with Frank on many repairs and CLA's has always been good.

He recently revived the meter in my Auto Exposure AE100 lens for a very respectable price. Has done 3 GS645 bellows... etc.

And lastly.... The Fuji GA645Zi was the finest 6X4.5 camera I ever used, and that includes lots of shots through Mamiya, and Bronica 645's. Second best was the Bronica ETRSi, but that's a system camera. The Fuji was the best all-encompassing fixed/zoom lens 645 I ever shot. It had one major flaw. The shutter and film transport was so quiet, I often had to look at the shutter count to confirm it had fired. No problem, it always did. GREAT for weddings.

 

[sepiareverb]

I'll chime in for Frank as well, he worked on a Fuji folder I had and has done several LF things for me over the years. Top notch.


via Tapatalk.

 

[gdi]

I may just go for it and see how bad the LCD is in practice. Then see if I can get a quote from Frank. Still haven't decided...

Thanks for the tips...

 

[Abbazz]

If the price is right, buy the 645zi with the faulty LCD then, buy this.

Cheers!

Abbazz