GW690 version II vs III

[nksyoon]

I've been looking at the Fuji 6x9 RFs recently with increasing interest and started monitoring the auction site. I also took a look at KEH and found these:

GW690II 90 F3.5 (67) WITH CAP, STRAP, CASE, MEDIUM FORMAT MANUAL FOCUS FIXED LENS CAMERA
Grade EX $751.00

GW690III PRO 90 F3.5 (67) WITH CAP MEDIUM FORMAT MANUAL FOCUS FIXED LENS CAMERA
Grade BGN $751.00

I've written to them asking for more information, especially on the shot counter.

According to Dante Stella's website the main difference is in the more ergonomic body panels and the RF mechanism.

What other differences are there in practice? Which would you buy (assuming the shot counters aren't abnormally high)?

Thanks in advance,
Nick

 

[Benjamin Marks]

It's the same lens, I think. It doesn't really matter. KEH BGN grade is often pretty conservative. I'd go for the one with the lower shot count.

Ben

 

[wtl]

is the newer one with a leveler on top plate and the older one without?

 

[Simon Larbalestier]

Yes new one has a built in spirit level and a more rounded ergonomic grip
i think the cassette release butons are different also the rangefinder spot is different. I have the mark III version. Lens is supposed to be the same and takes stunning pictures IMHO

 

[smthopr]

which one? II or III?

which one? II or III?

I have the III with the 90mm lens and a II with the 65mm lens.

The cameras are almost identical, but the model III will by younger. When I bought the model II I had to replace all the foam light seals due to age even though the shot counter was low.

The viewfinder of the III is easier to see the frame lines, focusing is about the same for each. Quality of the camera is the same for each. Both are metal cameras with plastic on the outside.

If they're the same price and shot count, go for the III. If the III camera has a shot count of 450 and the II 90, go for the II etc. Shutter is supposed to be serviced when the counter reaches 500 (5000 shots).

-bruce

 

[nksyoon]

Update: I've ordered a GW690III in Bargain condition from KEH. Tim Smith at KEH pulled it from inventory to look at it himself and described it:

"Over all the body is very clean with just a little paint missing from the back at the hinge. There is more wear on the front edge of the shade; that has a number of pecks in the paint and paint worn off. The glass of the lens and viewfinder are very clean. The number on the counter is 204."

Tim also looked at a bargain GW690II and told me he didn't recommend buying it. Top marks for Tim Smith at KEH!

I'm really looking forward to the mail now!