Bessa T buy ?

[hermannhkg]

Hi there,

Are there anyone with an experience with the Bessa T model ?

How does the camera perform ?

Would like to buy an L model, but it's only screw mount, so the T is the only other choice as my second M body ( for use solely with 21 Elmarit).

THx for all input !

Regards,

Hermann

 

[Pickett Wilson]

I like the Bessa T. If you don't mind using an external finder, it works great. I have a 15mm Heliar and finder on mine all the time. But I've used a T with 35 and 50 mm lenses with the appropriate finder and enjoyed it. Certainly a more versatile camera than the L because of the excellent rangefinder.

 

[pvdhaar]

Basically, as you've already surmized, the T is a Bessa-L with M-mount and rangefinder. But note, that it comes without the self-timer..

Best part about the T is the rangefinder itself. The 1.5 x magnification makes focussing a breeze. Plus, there's a dial that allows adjustment of diopter from -2 to +2. Although, if you're planning to use a 21mm, you'll probably be scale focussing most of the time anyway.

Another great thing is the lightmeter. The +/o/- LEDS are placed on the back, making them visible without having to view through the finder.

I use the T with a 25, 35 and 50. When used with appropriate finders, the camera handles great; once you're used to using separate view/range finders windows that is. The only caveat is the location of the strap lugs. With a very light 35 and heavy zoom finder mounted, it topples over backwards when carried on the neck strap. Matching external finders and lenses is a must.

All in all, the T is a very capable camera..

 

[ellisson]

A little slower, but fun to use.

A little slower, but fun to use.

The T has a nice rangefinder, with a built in diopter, 1.5 magnification and lots of contrast. I find it easy to focus, a particular advantage with faster and longer lenses e.g., 90 and 135mm. Also, if you prefer using an external viewfinder, as I often do, the T works very well.

I don't mind the trade-off of extra time it takes to focus and then move to the viewfinder to frame the shot, or the need to change finders with different focal lengths. Using an external mulitfinder is one popular solution, but I prefer tha larger, brighter view and lines of the CV or Leica single focal length external viewers. At 21 and 15 mm or wider, you can get by without the finder if speed is important - you can estimate focus with the distance markers on the lens with good results. I find the T a lot of fun to use.

Gary