I did it! (or why I bought a Fed 2)

[squeaky_clean]

So, yeah.... Finally broke down and did it. After playing a little bit with a Fed 5, I decided that I really did want a Fed 2, even at the expense of my G-III. Rangefinders are my fun cameras, so I can afford to trade them around some. I can always get another Canonet. 🙂

Besides, when I saw a very nice looking Fed 2e w/ an I-26... It was so hard to resist... Especially when I got it for $35 incl. shipping! Not too bad I don't think. Looks and sounds like its in very nice condition, and I can send it back if it's not. I am looking forward to it!

I really like the fact that I can shoot with different lenses with them. The 5 is a little goofy looking, but I like it too in it's own way.

I think the Russians may have a hold of me for a while... Its a sickness, really. Now I want a Jupiter 3... 😀

I'll post some pics soon, hopefully.

 

[lmd91343]

It is a good camera. Enjoy!


Do you know what you need now? Another FED2 to keep the first company. Then you will need a FED1.

 

[FrankS]

Congrats! Also look for a J8, and a collapsible 50 f3.5.

 

[squeaky_clean]

Yeah, I'd really like to have a collapsable. Right now this will have to tide me over... 🙂

 

[rbiemer]

As the kids around here say, "Cool Beans!"(there is no literal translation of that phrase but it is a statement of positive approval/enthusiasm)
The FED2 is a very pretty, competent camera. When I was looking for other FSU lenses, I first found a very nice J-12(35mm/f2.8), then a collapsible Industar-50(50mm/f3.5). It took a while to find a good J-9(85mm/f2) but that was worth the hunt. I'm still looking for a J-3.
With the I-50 (or it's earlier sibiling the I-22) on the FED2 you have a wonderful, pocketable machine!
Have fun with yer new toy and hope to see some photos!
Rob
edit:
Chris, just looked at your sig and I notice you've got a camera that I am sort of patiently waiting to get back from a CLA: K2 DMD. I might have to ask you about some other lenses for it eventually. I would say that this proves "great minds think alike.." but my friends would say I'd just insulted you. 😀 So I will just say"nice taste in gear you have!

 

[pcfranchina]

Thinkin about doin the same. The FED 2 looks like it may be my choice too, but is it worth getting rid of the GIII? Anyone interested in a Mint GIII? 😉 Is that a fair trade?

 

[BillBingham2]

Guys (and Gals), when you get a Fed 2, have it updated with a Fed 5 takeup spool. Makes loading film much faster!! When I got my Fed 2 CLAed I had it done almost for free. The instructions for those who want to try it themselves are on the net.

It is a fun camera with a nice long RF base.

B2 (;->

 

[adam9er7]

As a Canonet user too, I was curious how these FSU cameras compare to GIII, a GSN or even a Bessa R.
The FED 2 looks sharp. Congrads.

 

[squeaky_clean]

Yeah, I think I might miss the RF on the Canonet, as it was nice and bright. But? I really wanted to try the Fed. So I guess we'll see how it goes!

 

[w3rk5]

Congrats on your FED 2 Chris. Good luck on your hunt for the J-3. I got a good deal from *bay. The extra speed, gives me so much more flexibilty when I shoot since I only use avalible light. I loves my J-3...loves my J-3. 😀

Hey pcfranchina. Try posting your GIII on the classifides. I'm sure someone will be willing to tade or buy. 🙂

 

[squeaky_clean]

Yeah, there were 2 or 3 people willing to buy mine, just look at my ad! Mine's already sold, so?

Yeah, I'm sure the J-3 will be a ways off yet... But even a J-8 would be nice. I too like to shoot available light.

 

[pcfranchina]

Still not sure if i want to get rid of it. So many people love there GIIIs but I rarely ever use it and i NEVER user my New Canonet 28.

My GIII is in perfect condition with new light seals and battery. Is that a fair trade for a mind condition FSU camera with lens? I dont want to be suckerd or want anyone to think im tryen to sucker them. Thanks!

 

[squeaky_clean]

I dunno... If the Fed's been CLA'd it would be a decent deal, depending on the lens you got with it. I only payed $30 + shipping for on that looks to be in very nice shape.

 

[lmd91343]

Guys (and Gals), when you get a Fed 2, have it updated with a Fed 5 takeup spool. Makes loading film much faster!! When I got my Fed 2 CLAed I had it done almost for free. The instructions for those who want to try it themselves are on the net.
B2 (;->

Good idea Bill.

Also trade out the tripod socket with the FED5's That way your FED2 will have the modern 1/4" socket, not the old 3/8".

 

[JMP]

Thinkin about doin the same. The FED 2 looks like it may be my choice too, but is it worth getting rid of the GIII? Anyone interested in a Mint GIII? 😉 Is that a fair trade?

I've seen GIIIs in good condition go for $50 to $100, and FED 2s running the gamut from $30 (ebay entries with little information) to $120 CLA'd examples, though this seems steep. My $55 GIII needed only light seals; my CLA'd FED 2 was $75. In any case, I think it's fair enough to offer the trade if you're interested in trying a FED.

In use, I actually prefer the ergonomics of the FED 2 over the GIII, despite the dimmer viewfinder, lack of lever wind, lack of meter. The Canonet is slightly lighter weight, yet seems heavier because of its blocky shape, whereas the FED feels better in my hand. I also find the round rangefinder spot easier to focus. I do however miss the quieter shutter of the Canonet when using the FED.

 

[BillBingham2]

Lance,

I never looked down there! Thanks for the heads up. Will need to keep my eye open for a 1/4 x 20 donor.

Very cool existing darkness glass by the way, very cool.

Thanks again!

B2 (;->

 

[brians]

I could have sold you my FED 2 instead of the Canonet 🙁(((

But it's cool! Glad to hear you're a FSU camera enthusiast as well 🙂

 

[nzeeman]

do u have some pics from fed 5 to share with us?

 

[squeaky_clean]

Not quite yet. I am doing a little work on the I-61 right now. Should have it put back together tonight!

 

[cbass]

Still not sure if i want to get rid of it. So many people love there GIIIs but I rarely ever use it and i NEVER user my New Canonet 28.

My GIII is in perfect condition with new light seals and battery. Is that a fair trade for a mind condition FSU camera with lens? I dont want to be suckerd or want anyone to think im tryen to sucker them. Thanks!

Honestly, don't do it.

I might get a little flak for this but in my opinion the Canonet is a much nicer and more useful daily shooter than a FED, especially if your Canonet is in excellent condition.

The FED-2 is a nice compact and quiet camera. I used to own one (sold to another RF Forum member) and I enjoyed it. However, if you ever intend to shoot in fluid, fast-moving environments or in low light, the Canonet is a much more desirable and effective shooter because it can be operated more quickly and the AE will allow you to concentrate on composition.

I currently own a Vivitar 35 ES, which is a compact shutter-priority AE camera that is very similar to your Canonet. I can tell you from experience that I would never give up the Vivitar for a FED. In fact, the Vivitar is even starting to edge out my Bessa R for shooting time because of its fast operation, useful focal length and ability to shoot in low light.

Think hard about what kind of shooting you like to do before you trade away your Canonet. I'm not knocking the FEDs, but they are inexpensive enough that you can experiment with one without going broke.