TX2 or XPAN2 ?

[fcheuk]

In HK, one could get his/her hands on a grey market TX2+Fujinon 45mm for less US$1,900 where as the Hassy will set one back $2500. The difference is that the Fuji doesn’t come with the 45mm hood and the leveler. Also the Fuji doesn’t have factory warranty but the Hassy has 1 yr of warranty.

Which one would u go for?

Thanks for your insights in advance!

 

[Terence T]

I was faced with the same decision a couple of months back. I went for the TX-2 & Fujinon 45mm and the center filter for about $2100. Picked up a hood on evilbay for $14. Didn't really need the leveller so I didn't get one.

As for the warranty, the shop provides their own coverage so it's a matter of either sending it back to Hassy or the shop in Hong Kong. Some folks may not feel comfortable with that so they'll probably opt for Hassy warranty instead. I personally have enough trust in Fuji to purchase without the official warranty.

 

[fcheuk]

Thanks a lot for your input, Terence. I'm actually leaning towards the Fuji. The premium of the Hassy is just too steep. I could use the difference to buy another lens!! Yet, it's a tough choice since using Hassy equipment "feels" good.

 

[Terence T]

I'm not sure about how much better one can feel buying a Fuji over a Hassy. I personally hold Fuji in pretty high regard and to me they're on par with Hassy, maybe even with a slight edge given the lower prices for Fuji gear.

If you're buying from Hong Kong, best to watch out in case you get scammed by one of the shops there. The following thread relates a recent experience I encountered.

http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=7895

 

[Ben Conover]

Fuji

Fuji

Hi, I am a beginner and new to this site.

I use Fuji 69's and I found an interesting link saying the Fuji has more to offer than the 'Blad.



Dual-format – 24x65 mm and 24x36 mm


Integral viewfinder LCD



Shutter speeds from 8 s to 1/1000 s and B (max 540 s)



Frame rate 1.2 (0.9) frames per second for 24x36 mm (24x65 mm) format



Flash sync speed up to 1/125 s



Aperture priority center-weighted TTL metering system








Auto-bracketing



IMPROVEMENTS RELATIVE TO XPan:





LCD display in the viewfinder showing shutter speed and exposure information



Multi exposure (up to 9 exposures)



Self-timer delay 2 or 10 s



B-time 540 s



Improved IR film performance



Flash sync at the beginning or end of exposure



Rewind of film with option to leave a film tip out of the cassette



Lens shade for 45 and 90 mm lenses with locking device



Diopter lens with locking system



Electrical remote release (optional release cord)

 

[NoTx]

You know that looks an aweful lot like the description between Xpan I and II. As in why buy the II instead of the I. I had always heard they were the exact camera. Don't know for sure.