Ricoh "35"

[DRabbit]

Can anyone tell me more about this camera?

My aunt gave me one over this past weekend. I slapped a roll of film into it and have been taking some shots (of course, my experience with no light meter, no auto-exposure mode, and sunny 16 is pretty limited, so we'll see how I do, LOL)...

I know it seems to have been released sometime in the 50's (1955/56?)... and other than what I can tell by looking at it, I don't know much else. Anyone ever shoot with one? Assuming the rangefinder is aligned, how's the quality of the lens?

Thanks all!

btw... aunt also gave me a Yashica 635... now there's something I really know nothing about...

 

[dazedgonebye]

Please send your Aunt my address, in case she has any other Yashica 635s laying about.

The 635 is a 6x6 TLR (you probably figured that part out already) that came with an adapter to allow 35mm film use as well. The 35mm kit is often missing.

 

[racoll]

The "35" is a really nice camera and the lens is very good. I also have the Ricolet which is a cheaper, earlier, non-rangefinder version of the "35" and it performs astonishingly well. The "35" is a really enjoyable camera to use, especially with the cool trigger-lever, but I think you'll be very impressed with the performance of the camera. Ricoh may not have been as glamorous a name as some of the others, but they made very solid, reliable cameras, and this was one of them.

Andy

 

[DRabbit]

Thanks for the info Andy! Yes the shutter-advance lever thingy is odd, and my aunt didn't even know what it was until I figured it out. Of course, who knows how good the pictures will come out with me relying solely on Sunny 16 for the first time in my life, but it'll be interesting! I'll post some results after I finish and develop the roll if they're worth posting!

 

[Nikon Bob]

I can only echo what Andy has said about the camera. It sure has character. I bought one a few years back have never been disappointed with it. I think you you will be pleased with the results you get.

Bob