matching of Lenses and Bodies

[Turtle]

Hi,

This relates to my Bronica RF645 but would apply to others I would think.

I have two bodies and two lenses (45 and 65). My bodies are 135mm framed bodies and I would prefer to get the longer lenses, rather than get brightlines for the 100mm fitted (too short for me).

I have heard that the lenses and body can be matched to ensure good accuracy, as I know some people had focus problems. Which is matched to which and therefore as I have two bodies, could I get both matched to a single 135 lens (when I eventually find one!)?????

Cheers,

Tom

 

[Roger Hicks]

If I thought that a particular manufacturer couldn't work within the tolerances required to make ALL lenses work with ALL bodies, I wouln't begin to consider equipment from that manufacturer.

Cheers,

Roger

 

[Turtle]

Roger,

Maybe you would not. However, I did and do not regret that decision for a moment considering the fact that I have two options for perfect focus with longer lenses. I am simply trying to find the most appropriate for my needs and budget:

1. Use the 100mm
2. Get the bodies and 135mm lens matched, preferably both bodies.

There are not many interchangeable lens MF rangefinders (which was exactly what I wanted/needed) on the market....I can think of only two:

Mamiya 7 - Way out of my price range (esp lenses), too big and not enough shots on a roll. Too plasticky too.

Bronica RF - Perfect except for long lens issue (shared by Mamiya 6 and 7).

Many users of the 150mm on the Mamiya 7 have the same focus issues at wide apertures and short focal distances. It is just something most people accept with MF ranegfinders as the MF cameras are not that much wider than the 35mm RFs and so cannot get a proportionate increase in baselength so accommodate the longer lenses the formats require. Thats my understanding but could be wrong.

I believe most users of the 135 have no problems, but some do. I do know that if the lens and body are matched (could get done as part of a routine service) the problem (if present) vanishes.

For £1100 I got 2x RF645 bodies with 65mm lenses and a new 45mm ie HALF the price of a Mamiya 7II, plus 80mm plus used 50mm with second body. The RF645 is very kind to your budget and so far the build and images are beyond reproach.

It is a truly superb camera, but not for everyone. However, for those who want a tiny, light, ergonomically wonderful 645 with amazing optics, which is cheap, built exceptionally well and a pleasure handheld and at low speeds (ie rangefinder) it is also the only option!

Tom

 

[billbarber]

Tom:
Did you contact Robert White ? They appear to be a sponser here and they have a lot of the 135mm lenses from what I understand. They would probable be most helpful in answering your questions.
I too have the Bronica RF645 and love it. I just got back my first roll and can't wait to get back into the darkroom. The pics were great! Best of all, my camera AND lens were less expensive than one of my Leica lenses.
Good luck....
Roger, your reply wasn't very helpful and didn't sound very nice at all. These forums should make everyone feel welcomed and provide us all with positive feedback. I don't understand your negative sounding reply at all.
Bill

 

[Turtle]

Bill,

I know RW bought the remaining 135mm stocks but have not seen them advertised for ages. I will try them and I am sure they can advise in any case.

Seems we are in agreement. The RF645 is a very, very well kept secret! BTW RW is now offering the RF645 plus 65 plus 45 for £760 inc VAT. That is just astonishing and should stop the used market in its tracks!

BTW, I bought a cheap nasty looknig camera bag (that does not look like a camera bag) to house the RF (one body) along with 45mm lens when I feel like walkabout. It is minute, light and such a pleasure to carry. All my kit (2 bods,45, 65, 135 (when I get it) filters etc fit nicely in my Orion Trekker bag, leaving loads of room in the top for waterprof, sandwiches etc. This is just great....

Just want the 135 now 🙁

Tom