Talk me out of Contax G or Konica Hexar RFs

[Pete B]

I bought a Bessa R4a to tide me over whilst my M2 is away being fixed. I was heading off to Canada. I've been very impressed with it, and it's very light weight. I'd suggest getting the R4M for extreme cold.
Of course there is always the bargain-of-the-century Olympus SLR system which is what I usually take ski touring. If it ever does give up the ghost, they are cheap enough to replace rather than fix. My OM1 has only seized up once whilst touring, and it was back in action once slowly thawed in the Norwegian hut. Ah, memories!
Pete

 

[SolaresLarrave]

You want help in picking one?

I had a Contax G1 and loved it... until I used it. A bit too noisy whirring when the AF engages. I don't know if this changed with the G2. Otherwise, I loved it... specially the flash synchronization at all speeds!

With regards to the Hexar, I only handled the fixed lens model and found it a bit too big for my taste. Apparently, the Hexar RF (with interchangeable lenses) is pretty automated (auto film advance and rewind), but still uses manual lenses (which are excellent). Problem with these cameras: they may be difficult to repair, should you be unlucky enough to need it.

Have you looked into the Zeiss Ikon? Sure, they're discontinued, but they're good quality bodies and can take CV, Konica, Leica and Zeiss glass.

 

[Pope_P]

Cheers j j. The lenses are indeed the sharpest I've ever used. I always get complements from the lab where I get the films developed – they say how sharp the negatives are (and they have seen a lot of negatives!).

 

[Roger Hicks]

G: Lenses very good, focusing iffy. They're very divisive cameras, a bit like Leicas. Their True Believers refuse to see any faults. Others are not so blinkered.

Hexar: Getting old. When it breaks...

Disclaimer: I used G2 for a year, never Hexar.

Cheers,

R.

 

[leicapixie]

http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=139262

http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=139262

I would rather go for a SLR, like Nikon F2 or F3.
The F3 batteries not a problem. buy the best!
They are so small, can carry spare sets in your wallet.
Way more choice of lenses.
Rf are nice, I use Leica M.
The Contax mad me ill at ease.
No idea where it focussed.
The Hexar not rugged and low high speed.
250th maximum?

 

[benji77]

I can only comment for the Hexar AF. It is a wonderful camera that allows me to relax and enjoy the shoot. The AF, 46mm filters, quick rewind, exposure compensation, Manual ISO and superb viewfinder all play a part in make the shooting process extremely fun.

I have to admit though, that if you wish to operate in extreme cold, a Nikon FM2 / F3 will be a superb option.

 

[KoNickon]

I thought we were talking about the Hexar RF, not the fixed lens Hexar.

I cannot speak to the ruggedness of the RF, simply because I have not beat the daylights out of mine. But I think any rangefinder camera is going to be more delicate than an SLR. I do think the Hexar's rangefinder was somewhat prone to going out of adjustment if it received a knock, maybe more so than other rangefinder cameras. I do know that it is a beautifully made camera, wonderful to use. Very fast loading, rewinding, and a 1/4000 top shutter speed, which certainly can come in handy. The Konica lenses are truly first rate.

As between it and the G2, of course both are battery dependent (and the Contax is autofocus also), so dead batteries means you are without options.

As nice as these cameras are, and they really are good, I am wondering whether a manual (i.e. not battery dependent) camera might make more sense for you. So that means one of the Bessas, and an older Leica should be within your budget also.

 

[jammcat]

The Hexar RF is probably the loudest M-mount RF out there.
Other than that it's fantastic.

 

[rhl-oregon]

Both are now relics, no? Though not totally abandoned if one knows where to send the bodies in Japan, and I believe this forum has all the Info/advice required in that eventuality.

'Reala_fan' here routinely publishes G images in the rff gallery from deep in the high snows; I'd seek his counsel.

As for me, I have both now, and though I am not a basher of gear nor a motorcyclist like you, both hold up well. I do prefer the Hex RF for its manual rf and lens versatility, but there are many more G1 ( silver or green label) out there for rather less $$ since many non- basher owners traded them for G2s, so they (G1, I mean) can be treated as high-functioning disposables when you know you can get 2 for $225 on a good day at the World Online Market. The lenses are worth their cost,and can be adapted (m43, XF, e.g.) for a backup digital.

Good luck, Robert

 

[KoNickon]

The Hexar RF is probably the loudest M-mount RF out there.
Other than that it's fantastic.

I have to disagree about the noise of the RF. I would say you can't hear it at a very short distance. Any difference in sound from, say, a Leica M, is that it's of a different nature -- not louder, really. The Bessas, on the other hand, a of a sharper, more metallic quality.

 

[gustavoAvila]

I always wanted a high-tech 35mm camera for certain documenting works (with modern built-in metering and fast film advance)

May I humbly suggest not restricting yourself to the G2 or RF? While these are certainly excellent cameras, there are more economical and reliable alternatives.

Why not consider a late model Canikon film SLR? These are dirt cheap, reliable and used lenses are readily available.

Recently, I purchased a pristine Canon EOS 7e (30) for $25 and mounted an old 35mm lens I found in my closet. (Used Canon 40/50mm lenses can be readily had for around $100 to $150.)

The Canon EOS 7 uses lithium batteries and I have used it down to -10C without incident. (My M4 comes out when the thermometer dips into the -20's.)

I use the Canon when I want the convenience of a modern camera but still want to shoot film.

 

[Scrambler]

Bah humbug! What's with the "get a Canon Eos 7e?" As if its going to be more reliable than a similar aged Hexar RF or G2?

Under the skin the Hexar RF and Contax G2 are the same camera. So the choice comes down, IMHO, to RF/manual focus or Zoom viewfinder/AF

Neither has a lot of knobs and dials - unless you want to manual focus with the Contax. Everything else just "gets out of the way."

The viewfinder for the Hexar RF is 0.6, bright, nice. It is compatible with Leica goggled lenses. All round good.

So, IMHO, if you want simple and modern film camera but with manual focus and rangefinder, the Hexar RF is the best bar none.

An Eos 7 is just an SLR.

Well, so say I 🙂

I did put my money where my mouth is, and am happy with the result.