Thinking about a Canon VT Rangefinder

[eric23]

Hi Guys,

I am going to look at a Canon VT Rangefinder Body w/ Lens 35mm F1.8 used for $500CAD is that a good deal? The guy says it is in real good shape with no scratches on the lens and works great.

Is the Canon VT Rangefinder a good model? Are there any problems with it?

Thanks,

Eric

 

[xayraa33]

The VT is a nice camera, the permanent bottom winder adds extra weight and size to the camera .
check the slow shutter speeds and curtain condition.
the price seems almost reasonable with the 35/1.8 lens for Canada.
other than finding some examples of the VT having a frame counter that is erratic or non working, it is a fine camera.

 

[rover]

Sounds like a pretty fair price with lens. The Canon cameras of that time are made to a very high standard, I think you will find it impressive in that way. The VT viewfinder is not squinty, but not as generous as it's competition, the Nikon S2, SP and of course the Leica Ms. It does have a unique variable magnification viewfinder though to accomodate 35mm, 50mm and roughly 135mm lenses. If the viewfinder is clear, the patch should be warm toned and easy to see. The shutter of the VT is cloth, check it for holes. It generally is a larger camera than the others due to the bottom trigger winder. Check the film advance and shutter speeds, particularly the slow speeds which may be slow. That is an easy repair if necessary.

 

[eric23]

Thanks for the input guys.

One question does this camera have a light meter built-in?

Thanks,

Eric

 

[xayraa33]

no built in
light meters on cameras of this vintage.
it is a 50 yr. old camera.
try the Contax IIIa for an old camera with a BILM.

 

[rover]

no light meter

 

[los]

i love the trigger winder, and a clean finder will show a snappy rangefinder patch at the 35 setting. the added weight feels solid and comforting.