What would you do?

[Ariya]

I primarily use a Mamiya 6. When I wanted to get a 35mm camera to go with all my MF stuff I also looked at both the R2A/3A and the G2. I have used both Hasselblad and Rolleiflex cameras and really liked the Zeiss lenses. I went with the G2 because I already have a manual focus RF and the R3A seemed like a redundancy. I have been very happy with my choice - I love the feel of the camera, the sound of the shutter and of course the quality of the lens (only 45mm for now). I use the manual and autofocus cameras in different situations and for different purposes. Prices for both cameras are stable, assuming that we're talking used - just grab one and use it. If it doesn't give you what you want you will likely be able to get enough of your money back that the experience will have been worth it and you can try the other choice.

Regards,

Peter

 

[Dougg]

That Zeiss 21mm f/2.8 was what sucked me into the G system, at first just the least expensive used G1 body to put it on. The G1 had film-transport trouble so it went back to be replace with a G2. That was so nice the gear blossomed into more lenses and a second body. It's a great system if you are looking for the fullest automation an RF can offer, and a rather SLR-like experience.

But there's value to choosing your own focus point too, so the Minolta CLE is still my favorite 35mm RF. I have the Bessa-L and -T so have no R-series experience to share. But for the same coin you're talking about for the G2 setup, you should be able to get a Bronica RF645, and that IS worth considering!

 

[thanatos]

I've done it 😀

No comedown on the price as it was a commission sale but it's a luvverly bit of kit and I'm well pleased. Near mint condition for the body, flash and lenses, plus all the boxes and manuals, hoods, filters and remote shutter release.

Ironing/cleaning/gardening/laundry duty for the next month but it's a small price to pay.

Thanks for all the advice and discussion. The shininess got me in the end 😉

 

[Dougg]

Congratulations on the new kit, Thanatos; it's great stuff and you should enjoy it thoroughly!

 

[ClaremontPhoto]

i honestly am hooked on the 1:1 finder to the point that i can't picture shooting anything else. that is a great feature that isn't discussed too often, or conversely has people saying it sucks because they can't see the framelines. i, for one, can. using both eyes to focus makes it even quicker, as the whole scene "snaps" into view when the rangefinder eye sees focus as well as the free eye.

The two eyes open works with the 1:1 R3A finder. It's a whole new way of seeing.