R2 build quality vs later models

[pismo923]

I have seen quite a number of posts here suggesting that the later Bessa's have a "MUCH better build quality than the R2". Looking at Steven Gandy's site it seems obvious that significant improvements were made between the R and R2 bodies. The differences between the R2 and later models seems much more subtle. So what is it exactly that makes the build quality of a R2A for example "so MUCH better" than an R2? I have used both an R2 and R2A and quite frankly never noticed a significant difference between the two.

 

[Roger Hicks]

I have seen quite a number of posts here suggesting that the later Bessa's have a "MUCH better build quality than the R2". Looking at Steven Gandy's site it seems obvious that significant improvements were made between the R and R2 bodies. The differences between the R2 and later models seems much more subtle. So what is it exactly that makes the build quality of a R2A for example "so MUCH better" than an R2? I have used both an R2 and R2A and quite frankly never noticed a significant difference between the two.

Same here. I've used most of 'em and the R2 is pretty damn' good (a lot better than L and R). My olive drab version has been used hard and never given a problem. Later cameras may be a tiny bit smoother but I'm not convinced they are. People sometimes want to justify illusory 'upgrades' to themselves.

Cheers,

R.

 

[Krosya]

I have R2 and R3A. Used to have R3M and R2M. All I can say is that they are different in some ways - RF patch has different shape, obviously bodies are different shape as well as rewind knob. RF adjustment screws are different - dont know if there was an improvement there or just different design to accomodate different shape of the body.
Otherwise - they seem pretty much the same to me. For some things I actually prefer older body design of R2, but thats just a personal thing.

 

[pismo923]

RF patch has different shape, obviously bodies are different shape as well as rewind knob. RF adjustment screws are different

So for the most part some incremental changes to an already solid camera in the R2. Nice to hear that yours has been such a solid performer Roger - I hope my experience mirrors yours which I am confident will be the case.