Fed 2 1a

[andens2]

Thinking of buying a Fed 2 1a with the Industar 10 Lens as I principally like the look of this camera. But just a have question as to how the compare with the latter models of the Fed 2 and subsequent others 3,4, etc.

Anyone have any thoughts or experience. And what should I look out for?

 

[pschauss]

Among the various FED 2 models look for the one in the best condition. A FED 2 will probably be better than a FED 3 or 4 because it has a longer rangefinder base and, consquently, will focus more accurately.

 

[andens2]

Looking at this potential new purchase the serial number is 116197. I can't seem to figure out whether that is a Fed 2 Type a4 or a Fed 2 Type b2 it is being advertised as a Fed 2 1a. ANy experts out there with a better understanding than me.

Mnay thanks,

 

[brachal]

Pictures of the camera would be very, very helpful. I think the 2b introduced a socket for flash sync. I don't think there would be much difference in value or price for a 2a vs 2b. Very early Fed 2's ( I guess a 1a would count) had a lever to engage the rewind mechanism. This was very quickly switched to a simple round collar.

 

[andens2]

Thanks, Brachel I've attached the photo's but don't know whether there that useful as not much can be seen. Although that may be enough for the more informed eye. These are the photo's from the seller, although I have also got a long description.

Many thanks,

 

[brachal]

Different people classify these in different ways, but it's not a super-early a-type. Flash sync is clearly visible, which makes it a b-type. If you are buying it to use, make sure the seller includes a take up spool -- it's missing in the pictures. Also bear in mind that it's over 50 years old and will likely need work to function well.

 

[andens2]

Thanks Brachal, I have asked about the take up spool and it is included. Thanks, for confirming my thoughts.

 

[andens2]

I am inclined to think that the previous threads with regard to this may be right. However, if I look at the sovietcams site, link below: http://www.sovietcams.com/index.php?1080963993 then the fed2 Type A, 4 also has the flash shoe.

So are then any further suggestions as to how I can positivley seperate and define which one this is, the one above or the Fed 2 Type B, again serial number: 116197.

Thanks in advance.

 

[fanshaw]

There is no absolute method of defining 'type' of Fed cameras. The types given in Princelle's book are widely quoted. According to this the first Fed-2 with flash synch. was the type 2b dating from 1956-58. It was supplied with the rigid Industar-26m lens. You can rarely be sure that an old camera has been sold with its original lens or even has all its original body parts.

 

[brachal]

I am inclined to think that the previous threads with regard to this may be right. However, if I look at the sovietcams site, link below: http://www.sovietcams.com/index.php?1080963993 then the fed2 Type A, 4 also has the flash shoe.

So are then any further suggestions as to how I can positivley seperate and define which one this is, the one above or the Fed 2 Type B, again serial number: 116197.

Thanks in advance.

Not the flash shoe, the flash sync ... the little nub between the round window and the lens. The A4 on that site definitely does not have one. Your camera is a B.

 

[andens2]

Bill,

I looked at it again later and yes I would agree it is a B.

Thanks,

Andrew

 

[wolves3012]

One thing to be aware of on the early FED 2s is that they have quite a dark VF, later ones are brighter. The contrast is high, which is useful but they are not very good in poorer light, even with the flash-capability. As an "outdoor" camera it's not a handicap, however.