Bessa R-2 on *bay -- recommendations?

[ampguy]

I've read here how risky RF's are on ebay -- seals, descriptions, etc., and was wondering if anyone had any thoughts on this Bessa R-2:

http://cgi.ebay.com/Voigtlander-Bes...21578370QQcategoryZ107915QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

I would expect the above to end up at maybe north of $300 ???

I like that it has the 35mm lens, and is the R-2 (more metal) than the previous Bessa's.

Any thoughts on what a fair price would be? Appears there is a 7 day return period.

I've also inquired about a used, but mint R for $249 (not so much metal, I know...) from Stephen @ cameraquest, but since the one he has is used, I'm not sure if he gives the 1 yr. warranty on it. But I asked anyways. I still think I want an R-2 or higher for the metal though...

Thanks.

 

[Kyle]

The 35/2.5 lens and hood sell for $275 used by themselves (mind you, this is the pancake II version in M mount, so its significantly more than the screw mount version) and the R2 sells for $300-350 used, so expect this auction to go for over $500 (on the low end) for sure.

There's absolutely nothing wrong with the Bessa R. I had it for a year and I'd still have it if it weren't for the fact that I got a pretty darn good job, live at home, and wound up with a bunch of money burning a hole in my pocket and ended up with way too much expensive stuff. Getting back to the point, the Bessa R should sell <i>new</i> for $250. IMO, go for the Bessa R and 35/2.5 combo from CameraQuest for $399. Thats an awesome deal, and you get all new stuff with a warranty. Although if you can get the R2 for a good price, go for it.

 

[wrenhunter]

The Bessa R is a great, solid camera. I love mine. If you've handled one and don't like its feel, then you probably need the R2.

However, if you're just worried about it, don't be. Go with Kyle's advice and get the kit from Stephen. I did and am very happy with it.

 

[zuikologist]

I have a Bessa R and R2, and do not really see or feel much diference.

You might want to look at the RFF classifieds. There is a Bessa R with 35/2.5 and 50/2.5 Skopar lenses.

http://www.rangefinderforum.com/photopost-classifieds/showproduct.php?product=157

 

[ampguy]

Thanks Kyle, Wren, and all -- If I were to end up with an m-mount body, is it OK to use the screw mount pancake II lens (w/adapter) and save $$?

The consensus on this thread is that the 35/2.5 that Cameraquest bundles with the R is definitely worth the $150 or so portion of the bundle??

No russian equivalents for wide angle?? I've heard of the Ultron 35, but I think that is more expensive than the above bundled lens.

 

[Kyle]

Thanks Kyle, Wren, and all -- If I were to end up with an m-mount body, is it OK to use the screw mount pancake II lens (w/adapter) and save $$?

To clarify, there is no 35/2.5 Pancake II in screw mount. There was a 35/2.5 Pancake in screw mount, but it is discontinued and seemingly hard to find (I don't think I've ever seen one for sale). The current 35/2.5 in screw mount is not a 'pancake' lens, although it is quite small. Anyways, yes, you can use this lens, with an adaptor, on an M mount body.

The consensus on this thread is that the 35/2.5 that Cameraquest bundles with the R is definitely worth the $150 or so portion of the bundle??

Yes, the Bessa R and 35/2.5 package is a great deal at $399. You get a great body and a great lens, and very light weight. A lot of people like to add the Voigtlander 75/2.5 later on for a lightweight wide/tele combo.

No russian equivalents for wide angle?? I've heard of the Ultron 35, but I think that is more expensive than the above bundled lens.

The only Russian 35mm lens is the 35/2.8 Jupiter 12. Unfortunately, the rear lens element is MASSIVE and will damage the shutter curtain on the Bessa R. Other Russian lenses (50/1.5 Jupiter 3, 50/2 Jupiter 8, and the 85/2 Jupiter 9) will work on the Bessa.

Yes, the Voigtlander Ultron 35 is much more expensive than the Voigtlander 35/2.5 (and larger too) but it is also faster, with an f/1.7 maximum aperature.

 

[stric]

R2 is a great little camera. I have one in olive-green color. I haven't sold it yet, but I plan to since I have my Leica now. It doesn't feel as solid as Leica MP but it is an excellent camera for the money. I find it a bit earier to use than my MP. I belive that used R2 bodis in very good-excellent shape can easily go for over $300.

 

[dostacos]

I've read here how risky RF's are on ebay -- seals, descriptions, etc., and was wondering if anyone had any thoughts on this Bessa R-2:

http://cgi.ebay.com/Voigtlander-Bes...21578370QQcategoryZ107915QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

I would expect the above to end up at maybe north of $300 ???

I like that it has the 35mm lens, and is the R-2 (more metal) than the previous Bessa's.

Any thoughts on what a fair price would be? Appears there is a 7 day return period.

I've also inquired about a used, but mint R for $249 (not so much metal, I know...) from Stephen @ cameraquest, but since the one he has is used, I'm not sure if he gives the 1 yr. warranty on it. But I asked anyways. I still think I want an R-2 or higher for the metal though...

Thanks.

cameraquest sells the silver R for $249 and $399 with the 35mm f2.5 and that is a great combo