Ricoh 500RF questions.

[John Bragg]

I have just purchased a Ricoh 500RF on Ebay and am eagerly awaiting delivery. I am curious as to what to expect from this camera and hopefully someone will have some tips for me. I intend to let my other half use it as an introduction to film, and in particular available light using Tri-X or Neopan.

Regards, John.

 

[zuikologist]

John

You should receive a compact and very capable camera. From memory, I think it has uncoupled metering in manual mode as well as shutter priority and a nice lens. I did once own the 500ME version with a separate clockwork winder. Great fun.

See here for some images and comments on the 500RF:

http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/showthread.php?postid=31182


http://www7.flickr.com/photos/oplesrope/237216135/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/oplesrope/tags/ricoh500rf/

 

[John Bragg]

Thanks very much Zuikologist. That was the kind of reply I was hoping for. I understand the light seals can fail on these cameras, but it is fairly easy to remedy this. The shutter priority aspect is what appeals most, especially in available light work on the limits of handholdability. Also full manual override for backlit situations etc.

Regards, John.

 

[oscroft]

I understand the light seals can fail on these cameras, but it is fairly easy to remedy this

That's certainly true with the 500G (which I think is pretty much the same, just a slightly older model). I've got two of those and the foam had turned to sticky goo in both of them, but it was easy enough to replace.

And the 500 range sport a pretty decent lens (which I find gives nice results with Delta 400 - I'd expect good results from Tri-X too). You should enjoy it.

 

[zuikologist]

John

I think the 500 series cameras also have exposure lock with a half-press of the shutter button. Quite a useful feature.