Zorki-4 : which one should I choose ?

[Joao]

I need to decide which of these two Zorki-4 I will buy.

A- Camera from 1966 with Jupiter-8 lens

B - Camera from 1973 with Industar-50 lens

Same price, both in nice condition and fully working (including slower speeds)
Are older Zorkis better built ? Or should a more recent camera be more reliable ? I will be grateful for advice and opinions

Joao

 

[wolves3012]

Check the lenses for condition for a start. I'd go for the '66 with J-8. The Jupiter is a faster lens and the older camera is likely to be better made. You may find the '66 body has engraved shutter speeds rather than the later silk-screened ones that wear off.

 

[Joao]

Both lenses are in good conditon
So the "older age=better built" principle is also valid for Zorkis.
Thank you for your opinion
Joao

 

[dee]

No question the older cameras are better made , and the J 8 is a classic lens .

 

[payasam]

You should not ignore the point about engraved shutter speeds.

 

[summar]

Yes, engraved shutter speeds are important. The later printed speeds almost always wear off. Another advantage of the earlier models is that they have strap lugs. The later ones don't, which is a PITA if you don't like using neveready cases.

 

[Joao]

Useful points were mentioned, your input helped me to make my decison.
Thanks a lot
Regards
Joao