Big time FSU camera collectors

[zhang xk]

Hi Zhang

I always wanted to have one of those Shanghai RFs. Saw one once displayed in a photo processing lab, but the owner didn't want to part with it- or at least that was what the store clerks said. That lab closed shop, and I don't know where that Shanghai went. As far as I could tell (got to hold it and saw the shutter), it wasn't operational. The RF was off and one of the shutter tapes was broken.

Jay

Hi Jay Tongzhi,

Shanghai 58-2 is a must for any Leica copy collectors. These are not as well built as a later Zorki. More like an early Leica. :bang: But I am sure you can bring a defective 58-2 back to life with your skills. The chrome finish of a 58-2 is more shining. They are very nice to look at.

Shanghai 58-1 is very rare. These cost many times as a 58-2. Less than 2000 cameras were made.

Zhang

 

[zhang xk]

Look at the cover of the first edition of Princelle - now that's a collection. I reckon you are not going to be a Commisar in FSU collecting till you can beat that lot. I am doing my best though ...

I will try to emulate him. And also add some more. Zeiss microscopes. Someone also collect microscopes and binoculars?

Cheers,

Zhang

 

[lushd]

Zhang - congratulations! Here's a picture of most of mine on a day when I turned out the cupboard.

 

[zhang xk]

Zhang - congratulations! Here's a picture of most of mine on a day when I turned out the cupboard.

Congratulations! That is a serious collection.

 

[zhang xk]

.....Someone also collect microscopes and binoculars?

Cheers,

Zhang

These are the kind of items I like to collect-all metal, precision gears. Microscopes, precision cameras, especially Russian and Chinese ones, mechanical watches of high quality without brand snobbery, high quality binoculars,etc.
I guess that is why people like Russian rangefinder cameras vs modern plastic consumer products.

 

[lushd]

Zhang - just beautiful! Your last two pictures made me recall a friend of mine who is a civil engineer. She was captivated when I gave her a Zorki 1 to hold. Properly engineered, she said, with real respect in her voice.

One day I think someone will be glad we did all this, even though our spouses think we are crazy!