rangefinder accuracy 667w vs M7

[Pete Myers]

Hi Tom:

Can you comment on the rangefinder accuracy in use between the 667w and an M7? It would seem on paper that the 667w would be hard to focus accurately, but perhaps this is not true.

most grateful,

Pete

 

[Tom A]

The Rf base of the 667W is long enough to handle the 55mm lens - no problems at all. It also has a Rf that is about as bright as they can be. Similar to the "champ" - the Zeiss ZM finder.
The M7's finder is good, but it is not in the same ballpark as the Zeiss or R3 finder.
The "patch" on the 667W ( and the Bessa III) is small in proportion to the field covered by the lens - but I have had no problem with it - even in dim light or low contrast light.

 

[Pete Myers]

Grateful for the reply Tom. That is very helpful to know.

And how is the build quality? About the same as the ZM, but a little less then Leica M?

Difficult to find one to look at out here in the middle of New Mexico, so grateful for your insight and knowledge.

Pete

 

[Tom A]

Well, as Leica does not make a 120 camera - it is difficult to compare. It feels rock solid and more than anything it feels like a very large M2! The shutter is so quiet that Cosina incorporated a small red light below the ocular that gives a small red flash - just to let you know that you have fired it!
It is fully battery dependent though - so carry a couple of CR-2 as spare. On the other hand, I have shot some 60+ rolls with mine and the battery is till fine.
Only beef I have with it is that the knurling on the focussing ring is in 90 degree increments -i.e there is knurling for a quarter of the diameter, then a smooth surface for a quarter, then knurling again and yet another smooth surface. Took a while to get the "feel" of it, particularly for street shooting when you need fast focussing! I am going to drill a small hole and tap it for a "pin" to give me a reference for focus settings (there is enough "meat" in the barrel to do it.

 

[Pete Myers]

Thank you again Tom. It is an exciting camera. I certainly hope I get a chance to own one and use it. Cosina continues to stun me with their innovation. There seems to be a certain sense of freedom with their designs that I rarely see today.

again, most grateful!

Pete