Experiences with Gaoersi cameras?

[Didier]

Does anyone have made experiences with Gaoersi cameras? I'm longing for one of their 6x12, together with a 65mm or 75mm Superangulon or Rodagon, for IR landscape shooting. I would like to know how easy (or not) the mounting and calibrating of a lens is. Any advice is highly appreciated, thanks in advance.

Didier

 

[x-ray]

I believe these are the same as the fotoman cameras sold in the US. Midwest photo exchange sells them and a few other dealers. I've read a little about them and from what I've read they sound like a good camera. In the US I think you buy the basic body with a lens cone and finder for the specific lens you want. You purchase a lens and install it yourself. From what I've read it's easy to adjust the focus spacing with the provided shims. I've given some thought o getting one but have deceided not to at the moment. I have a Fuji G617 that I really love using and just don't need one more thing to drag around.

 

[Didier]

Hi Don
With a Fuji 617 you have indeed no need for a Gaoersi or Fotoman. Who needs a Hyundai when he has a Mercedes?...
I'm not shure whether Fotoman and Gaoersi are identical. Comparing product photos
Fotoman 6x17
Gaoersi 6x17
let me believe body and finders are different. The Fotoman is in general more expensive as the Gaoersi - probably dued to the fact there are official Fotoman importers/resellers in USA and Germany, which also offer post sale services; while the Gaoersi has to be ordered in Hong Kong or China. That's why I asked about it's reliability. But I think I'll have a try.
Didier

 

[JasonC]

Didier,

Go to www.magnachrom.com and download issue 1. There is a review of Gaoersi 4x5 which is similar to 6x17. Hope this help.

Jason.

 

[Didier]

Just did, thanks Jason!

 

[PHOTO24]

Hi!
Gaoersi is not Fotoman and its not produced in the same factory or something.
I have a Fotoman 617, its a piece of proper craftsmanship and it works perfect. I would not spend money on a used Fuji (since its not produced anymore) or Technorama which is double the price.
I had a Gaoersi last hand in my hand in Shanghai and it didnt look very well crafted.
Go for Fotoman ! I have very good experience with the company.
cheers
Sven

 

[fenio]

There is a review of the Gaoersi 617 here: --http://www.photo-i.co.uk/Reviews/cameras/Gaoersi/page%201.htm

If you go to the same site there is some discussion on the Gaoersi cameras on the film camera forum : http://www.photo-i.co.uk/BB/viewforum.php?f=32
I just ordered a 6x17 which I plan to use with some of my LargeFormat lenses.

 

[x-ray]

I read a review of the fotoman and they seemed to be very pleased with it and calibrating the lens was very easy using provided shims. I haven't seen either but don't think i would be scared of either one.

I do love the 6x17 format but also like the 6x12 roll back that I have for 4x5.

Here's something to tempt you on the 6x17---