Fuji G690 (6x9) Rangefinder Camera
Photo thanks to Bruce Hansen - [email protected]
Related Links:
Fuji G690 camera/lens specs (archive)
Fuji G690BL Pages (Dante Stella) [4/2003]
Medium Format Rangefinders
Rangefinder (35mm mostly) Pages
This Fuji G690 is a very nice example of a modern 6x9cm format camera
that takes multiple lenses, yet delivers solid rangefinder performance in
a larger medium format image. See Current MF
cameras for the latest version of this 6x9cm model (G690III).
A Fujica G690 camera, #20851xx, with 100/3.5 lens and lens hood. The G690 is a rangefinder camera with interchangeable lenses. The available lenses range from 50mm to 250mm. It produces images 6x9 in size.
I bought a used Fuji GX680 this year and have fallen in love with it. I
own the 180mm f5.6 and the 100mm f4 - both lenses are very very sharp and
my understanding is that most all of the lenses for this camera are
exceptional. It is such a joy to use - automatic film advance and rewind,
easy multiple exposures, easy camera movements, etc. Drawbacks are that
it is expensive (about $2700 for the GX680 III new and that does not
include the lenses or the right angle finder, etc.) and too heavy to
handhold. Otherwise, it is like a dream camera, all of the front
movements of large format combined with roll film and everything automatic
except autofocus (and who needs that!). The only thing I could possibly
imagine better would be an identical camera that allowed you to stack
about 50 sheets of 4x5 and automatically shot them and inserted them into
light-tight envelopes after exposure!
[Ed. note: I have seen a number of similar rave user notes about the Fuji
lenses for 6x7 and 6x9 rangefinders series; see below for other views
;-)]
From: [email protected] (James Mok)
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Fuji GX680 III
Date: Tue, 21 Apr 1998
I was very exacted at first about the Fuji, until I learnt more about
field cameras. I then thought, what's the point of the Fuji when you
can have a field camera which has more movement, lighter, less
expensive, more format choices, and arguably better optics?
I would suggest anyone considering the Fuji to have a look at anyone
of the drop bed field cameras in either 6x9 or 4x5 format first.
Specifically the Horseman 45FA, which is small enough to be a 6x9 yet
its a full fledge 4x5, and can also hold a 6x7, 6x9 or a 612 roll film
holder.
As for easy sheet film changing, there is the Kodak EasyLoad or the
Fuji QuickLoad system. Also, I am not sure if the Fuji Quick Change
system is available over at your end, but it holds 8 sheets of
preloaded film in one pack, and you just shoot and pull out the
envoloped sheet film as you would with polaroids.
rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
From: Rob Black [email protected]
[1] Re: Fuji GW690 vs GSW690 Lens Quality?
Date: Thu Apr 30 1998
William F. Robinson wrote: > Every so often someone inquires about the Fuji 6x9 rangefinders and > there is gushing praise for them, with the high quality of the GSW690 > lens always mentioned. My mind thinks in 135mm/4x5 40mm/35camera format, > which computes out to 90mm in 6x9 size. How does the 90mm lens of the > GW690 rate? Or should I buy a GSW690 and crop? > Thanks in advance > William F. Robinson > [email protected]
Both are superb lenses. Due to differences in perspective you may not be
happy cropping the GSW. The 90mm is slightly on the wide side however so
it may be worth your while to check out both cameras if you can and see
which you prefer. My own personal take is the super wide is more of a
specialty camera, with all the limitations of shooting very wide. The
90mm is more flexible for more all around shooting and even reaches
somewhat into the wide angle arena.
Rob
rec.photo.equipment.misc
From: [email protected]
[1] FUJI GL 690
Date: Fri Jun 05 1998
I have one of the first Fuji 6x9 camers made I also have 3 lens for
it.
I would like to know if they made a 250mm lens for it?
I heard they did but never sent them to the U.S.A..
I would like to keep in touch with people who use them.
Places to get them repaired(Fuij does not repair them anymore) also
other usefull information.
From: Ivan Singer [email protected]
Subject: Response to Fuji Rangefinders?
Date: 1998-06-13
I fell in love with MF from my first day out with a rented Fuji GSW690II.
The lens quality and the lightweight, yet positive feel of the camera
pushed me to take pictures that I could never achieve in 35mm or even in
square format. I shoot lots of industrial landscapes and city scapes and
depend on the Fuji optics to be able to reproduce the finest details, like
individual rivets and shadow details, with extreme accuracy. Because I
wanted a metal bodied camera with interchangeable lenses, I bought a used
Fujica G690BL with 100/3.5 and later a 180/5.6 (I probably would choose
two different fixed lens bodies now that I have had some time with one
body and two lenses). These lenses despite being non-multi-coated are just
as sharp and contrasty as I would want, although I suspect that the newer
EBC coated lenses have better contrast. On the other hand, there is no
problem with the B setting closing after the shutter is released, and no
built-in lens hood to cause vignetting.
Just my opinion added to the fray,
Ivan
From: [email protected] (James Chow)
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.large-format
Subject: Re: Fuji lens quality
Date: 15 Jun 1998
Gary Helfrich [email protected] wrote:
> I doubt that there is really much difference in optical performance > between the "Big Four" (Fuji, Schneider, Rodenstock, and Nikon). Bob S
This was also my conclusion when deciding between the Fuji 617 and Linhof617
panorama cameras. Optical quality of the Fujinon lens is surprisingly
good (I
admit it's not quite as good as my schneider medium format glass, but image
quality is very close to that of my 180 and 300 tele-xenars; my guess was
that the Linhof was about the same (although the Linhof clearly has better
workmanship/precision machining).
--Jim
From: niknik at pipeline dot com (Nik Nikiforou)
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Fuji 6x9
Date: Mon, 07 Sep 1998
Marc Deneyer [email protected] wrote:
>Does anyone know the quality of GSW fuji 90 mm and 65 mm lenses? >They seems to be good. >Do you know some bad aspects with those medium size cameras? >Thank you everybody >Marc
I've owned a Fuji GSW690III (65mm lens) for a couple of years and have
found the lens to be extremely sharp, even wide open. As far as "bad'
aspects, from my point of view:
1. Because of the length of the lens and the wide angle of coverage,
the lens barrel is visible through the viewfinder, always obscuring
one corner of the image area. This makes it impossible to be
completely sure about your composition; I find this quite annoying.
2. On the "Bulb" shutter speed setting, the shutter remains open
until it is either re-cocked or until the shutter speed dial is turned
back down to the 1 second position. This can be a problem on
exposures over 1 second and under about 5 seconds, as you have to
quickly put the lens cap over the lens and then recock the shutter.
This is hard to do precisely, especially in the 2 to 3 second range.
3. Although not very heavy for its size, it is quite a bulky camera.
Also, I assume you already know that there is no built in light meter,
which may or may not be important to you.
Having said all that, this is a superb camera for landscapes, and is
also a pretty good value. However, if the above aspects really bother
you, you may want to consider the Fuji GA645 (60mm) or GA645w (45mm).
These are autofocus 645's with about the same angle of coverage (but
you only get half of the negative size of the 690). I own the GA645
(the less wide angle version) and love it; fast, sharp lens, motorized
film loading and winding, autofocus, autoexposure, fast handling, and
exposure data imprinting on the film edge. In fact, I've shot more
film in three months with this camera than in two years through the
690.
Hope this helps without adding too much confusion :-)
Nik
From Medium Format Digest:
From: Kim Fullbrook [email protected]
Subject: Response to Buying a 6x9
Date: 1998-09-09
Before answering, another question - why do want 6 x 9 and what will you do
with the results ?
Do you want to take static subjects or action ?
Do you want to use different lenses ?
Will you be carrying the camera around much, in which case weight & bulk are
important ?
Would you prefer SLR or rangefinder ?
I have a Fuji GW 690 III and don't use it much now. The lens quality really is as good as other people indicate - very sharp and contrasty - except for slight darkening in the extreme corners at f5.6 and wider. Whereas I acquired a Pentax 67 which I use a lot, as it's possible to change lenses, the reflex viewfinder is more accurate, the lenses are great, and it's possible to project the slides with equipment that's not too hard to obtain. The 55x70mm image is not that far different to so-called 6x9 but the difference might be significant to you. The camera is bulky and heavy, though. But it isn't too expensive to buy.
Overall what I'm saying is to first carefully consider what you want to
do with the camera, then choose the equipment based on that.
From: [email protected] (JWal858381)
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Fuji GW690 comments
Date: 15 Dec 1998
Does any body have any comments on the Fuji camera?
Is it convenient to use and is it worth the money?
Is quality any issue?
The lenses are superb!! Both the GW and the GSW are wonderful-
incredibly sharp! AND- because of the rangefinder construction, images
produced by these cameras are especially sharp due to the focus accuracy
and the lack of a moving mirror...took some real getting used to when I
bought my Mamiya RB!! The latest incarnation of the body incorporates more
polycarbonate resin ($$ plastic!) on the outer body panels, but the inside
seems to be diecast Al, so the camera is quite rugged- very appropriate
use of materials . I am thinking of purchasing one for landscape usage,
instead of using my Mamiya.
You will give up the close focusing ability that you have with your RB/RZ
(which I assume is what you have), but that's not what this camera is about-
landscape is this camera's forte, and it really delivers!
I believe that it would be very convenient to use instead of a 120
back on a 4 x 5.
Absolutely, and a lot lighter and more conveniant, too! You can carry
one of these cameras in the woods, and have it out and ready in no time at
all. In addition, they are PERFECT for aerial work- easy to handle while
hanging out the window of a prop plane!
I can't rave enough about these cameras, except to say that for the
money, it's
an astounding deal- grab one if you can!
Jason M Wallace
Photographer- South Carolina State Museum
From: "Michael Liczbanski" [email protected]
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Fuji GW690 comments
Date: Tue, 15 Dec 1998
Fujis are great cameras (I use both GW and GSW) but have at least two warts:
1. The T setting on the shutter can be deactivated only by either moving the
shutter speed dial to a different setting, or by winding the film. Not too
convenient if you do a lot of exposures over 1 second.
2. The viewfinder distorts like crazy (barrel distortion mostly) and the GSW
(60 mm) lens obscures approx. 20% of the image area in the viewfinder
requiring "peeking" at the entire image by moving the camera.
Other than that - both cameras are great, lightweight and precise
instruments!
Michael
From: Gary Frost [email protected]
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Fuji GW690 comments
Date: Tue, 15 Dec 1998
I agree on #1 Regarding the T setting. esp with exposures just over 1 second can be a real pain. 4 sec or longer exposures I can deal with. My only real complaint about this camera. R
On the viewfinder barrel distortion, I had to get my GW690 out and look.
Maybe you refer mainly to the GSW wide angle version? There is some
barrel in the GW, but not much. Also, as a point to clarify, this is in
the viewfinder only, not the lens/film, which is quite distortion free.
I don't know what Mamiya you have, but one advantage to using a
4x5 for landscape, besides focus plane and perspective control, you
can use 4X5 film. ;^) No doubt, it takes more time to setup and use.
From: Stephe [email protected]
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Fuji GW690 comments
Date: Fri, 25 Dec 1998
Gary wrote:
> Does any body have any comments on the Fuji camera? > > Is it convenient to use and is it worth the money?
VERY nice camera and probably has the sharpest/highest contrast lens I
own.. the only thing I don't like is the T setting (over one second) is
tough to use. I use the lens cap as a shutter when using it.. It's so
covenient I use it for my travel camera! With some NHG 800 (or some 400)
I can hand hold almost any shot. You'll never do this with a 4X5 with a
roll film back.
> Is quality any issue?
Not in the least. This is a very well made camera.. Probably has the
best coating of any modern lens made. Almost totally flare free.
> I am thinking of purchasing one for landscape usage, instead of using > my Mamiya. > > I believe that it would be very convenient to use instead of a 120 > back on a 4 x 5.
I have both and I use my GSW 6X9 ALOT more because it's just easier to
deal with. Only time I use my 4X5 is when I need a longer lens (not
often) and when I need movements. This lens is sharp enough to print a
sharp print from 6X4.5 of the negative if not more so... I paid $1000
for a extra clean used one and never have regretted it..
--
Stephe
From Medium Format Digest:
From: [email protected] (Redmond Young)
Date: Tue, 26 Mar 1996
Subject: Re: Fujica 690
> A fellow worker has recently picked up a FUJICA G690 6cm x 9cm > rangefinder camera. This is an older model with interchangeable lenses > (65,100,150 and 180mm lenses, I believe). I am very interested in this > model and would like to purchase one and any lenses that my limited > budget will allow. > >>>Don't know that this model ever had interchangeable lenses
There were three Fuji medium format rangefinders that took
interchangeable lenses: the G690, BL-690, and the GL-690 (or was it
GS-690, I forget).
Lenses available were 65mm, 100mm, 150mm, and 250mm according to
McBrooms. But someone said she obtained a 180mm, and that's news to
me. For the 65mm and 250mm, there's an auxiliary finder.
Red
From Medium Format Digest:
From: [email protected] (David Kilpatrick)
Date: Fri, 29 Mar 1996
Subject: Re: Bronica S2A focusing problems, Fujica 690
The S2a has a well-documented problem with Ilford FP4 and other modern
lightweight base films, which does not occur with colour neg or slide
films which are substantially heavier in weight. Basically, the mirror
action causes slight vacuum which makes the film curve into the
darkchamber (sucks it into a curve). The later EC model solved this by
allow air to circulate! The solution is to use a film like Foma or
Tri-X which has a physically thicker base and emulsion. If the problem
is not caused by this,. suspect a focusing screen position problem.
Re: Fujica G690 with interchangeable lenses:
>The frame size is not 6cm x 9cm. On the model 690 I saw, we measured >it to be ~ 83mm x 55.4mm (~ 3.26" x 2.18").
This camera had a 50mm lens option as well, as was widely sold in the
Pacific area, hence Australia is a good place to find them. Each lens
has its own electronic shutter. 83mm x 55.4mm is, for information, 1mm
LONGER than DIN standard 6 x 9cm and anyone who thinks that 6 x 9
really means 60 x 90mm has never used the format. A Mamiya Press
magazine, which I consider to be the standard, has a gate 84 x 56mm in
size. Once more, just for info, the DIN standard for enlarger carriers
allows cropping down to 78mm x 54mm from a standard neg gate of 82mm x
55mm. This information can be found in the latest edition of Photon as
from April 1 (http://www.photonpub.co.uk/) where a version of a printed
article on the Mamiya Press as a building progress camera is available.
It also deals with the Kaiser 9005 6 x 9 enlarger (DIN standard,
cropping, carrier) versues the Meopta Magnifax (big carrier capable of
handling 6.5 x 9cm cut sheet film, 70mm film, and allowing full area
printing of DIN 6 x 9 negs with rebates shown).
rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
From: [email protected]
[1] Re: Fuji 690 with interchangeable lens, where to get?
Date: Fri Apr 02 1999
> The only Fuji 690s I have heard of had NON-interchangeable lenses. If they > made one with interchangeable lenses it would be rare, if they never made one > it would be non-existant. Either way, it would be hard to come by. Where did > you hear about it?
It's rare, but it does exist. See:
http://photo.net/bboard/q-and-a-fetch-msg.tcl?msg_id=0002af
http://photo.net/bboard/q-and-a-fetch-msg.tcl?msg_id=0001c4
http://photo.net//bboard/q-and-a-fetch-msg.tcl?msg_id=000EAc
[Ed. note: warning re: newer models with polycarbonate bodies..]
Date: Fri, 11 Feb 2000
From: "Ralph W. Lambrecht" [email protected]
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Fuji GW690s
Polycarbonate is very strong. Strong enough to be used in automotive
bumper applications. They have a small, relatively unknown drawback.
They do NOT appreciate gasoline or benzine unless treated. So NEVER
clean anything off you camera with lighter fluid. The PC will get
brittle like glass within minutes and can literaly break from touching.
Automotive bumpers are made from a PC blend and are not that sensitive
anymore, but it was a big surprise when the material was used first. I
don't know what PC blend camera makers are using, but I would be
surprised if they have a gasoline test in their test procedure.
Ralph W. Lambrecht
Date: Wed, 9 Feb 2000
From: "Rick Rieger" [email protected]
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Fuji GW690s
Colin,
I have a GW690II. It's been a superb camera. The III is very similar
with a little easier loading and a spirit level, if I'm not mistaken. I
wouldn't worry about the metal vs. plastic issue. From what I can see the
use of plastic doesn't hurt the performance or durability at all. The lens
on the II and III is the same. I don't believe anything has been done
with the lens between the II and the III. Before the II, I don't know. I
don't think the rangefinder has changed between these two models either.
Rick R.
Colin Miller
....
Date: Thu, 10 Feb 2000
Hi,
I can comment from both my research and some personal experience. I
have a GW690III that I recently bought used (but with only 23 on the
counter) for $900 USD. Yes, the new ones are more "toy-like" with it's
lighter polycarbonate plastic bodies. But from what I understand about
polycarbonate is that is is amazingly strong along with it's
lightweight character.
In my research before buying I did have chance to hold and feel 690 I
and II models. Yes, they are metal. But much heavier. Also, not as
easy to hold not being as "ergonomically" designed with molded handles
and such.
As for the viewfinder, the III is much better. Most imporantly is that
the outline in the viewfinder adjusts as you focus in and out for the
true composition as that particular focal range. Also the dot for
focusing seemed clearer and better than the I or II.
The lenses: From what I understand the older lenses are not EBC multi-
coated lenses and may not be as good. I can only say that the one on
my GW690III is fantastic.
FYI, there's currently a used GW690III on ebay that has yet to get any
bids after being up for a few days now. The seller is starting bidding
at $650, seems be a "small interest" window (as these are not nearly as
popular as some others) and you might be able to get this one for a
pretty good price. I'm happy at my $900 price for a mint condition one
with only 230 shots taken. You might get this one cheaper. Here's the
link: http://cgi.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=253566009
there's about 4 1/2 days left on the auction.
Hope some of this helps.
Rich
Date: Thu, 10 Feb 2000
Richard,
The II viewfinder also adjusts for parallax, as does the III.
The II lens is EBC coated.
Rick R.
...
Date: Thu, 10 Feb 2000
I had both the GSW690 III and the GSW690 II for a few years. The lenses
were both EBC coated and gave almost the same resolution numbers on my
tests, so I believe they were identical. The III had a bit more plastic
where the II has metal, is slightly lighter, has a level, has a slightly
more contoured shape, has an additional strap look (The II only has two
hooks on the left side, which means that the camera hangs vertically). I
found the film loading slightly easier on the III (esp. for Ilford film)
as I found the film loading slightly easier on the III (esp. for Ilford
film) as the little pins seem to pop out a bit more on the III and it is
slightly easier to insert the new roll). As far as I can remember, the
viewfinders were identical. The III has an integrated round hood, while
the II has a detachable square hood with a hole facing the viewfinder.
But despite all these small improvements, I prefered using the II. I found
that the lens rings moved much more smoothly on the II, and I liked the
metal body. On both camera, my biggest dislike was the big clonk and
vibration when the shutter was depressed. Compared with the electronic
shutter in the Mamiya 7 lenses, this is very significant. .
I believe that it makes it difficult to use any shutter speed below 1/125
without significant loss of sharpness. Apart from this, the lenses are
very good (not quite as good as the Mamiya 7 lenses or the 50mm lens for
the Mamiya Universal) and I can definitely recommend these very nice and
rugged cameras
gregory
....
From: [email protected] (John F. Opie)
Laurent Wirmer
[email protected] wrote:
Hi there (also from Germany...)
I had one for three years as my main camera.
Quality of the lens is excellent. I have a 60x90 cm print of the
Grand Canyon hanging in my living room (Ektar 25) and you can barely
see any diffraction effects, despite the lens being used wide open. I
have an even larger (100x130 cm) print made from a Technical Pan
negative shooting at f11 or so which not only shows no unsharpness or
diffraction effects (at least I'm calling them that: they may well
have more to do with inherent unsharpness of color negative grain...),
but also shows less grain than an 10x15 cm print made from 35mm Tri-X.
The finder is a bit of a problem, since it only shows about 95% of the
actual picture. Focusing is excellent and very good at low light
levels, although with this wide of a lens you can do most of your work
by stopping down to f16 or so and adjusting to use depth-of-field.
Exellent for photographing landscapes. Built-in level makes getting
horizons accurate is no problem. Wonderful for extended hikes/trekking
as well. Can't use a polarizer, but I could live with that.
As far as prices are concerned, you got me. I sold mine four years
ago when I moved to Pentax 67 (I decided I needed a camera that 1.
gave me 100% of the film in the waist level viewer and 2. gave me
multiple lenses) and got around DM 2500 for it, including the
commission to the store that sold it (Vario in Freiburg, highly
recommend them...). I bought mine used from Wolf Photo in Basel for
only about SFr 1800, it was used for 8 rolls of film for a company
report, client paid for it and the photographer turned around and sold
it when the job was done...
My recommendation: fly to the US, go to B+H or Adorama, buy a new one
(they *might* have a used one in stock) and fly back for **less** than
you would pay for a new one in Germany. Take a look at the prices in
Germany (I think they're around DM 4000) and do the math yourself.
That's what I did when I bought my P67 setup: flew to New York, bought
the camera, prism, waistlevel finder, wood grip, 45, 105 and 300
lenses, as well as extender, around 12 B+W and Heliopan filters, case,
new tripod as well, for less than the P67 with the 105, 45 and prism
would have cost. Ok, the 105 and 45 were used, so was the prism, but
the rest was new. Hard to beat. German medium format and large
format prices are too much for me to pay...
John
PS: you do need to declare when you come back into Germany, they will
hit you with 17% import tax. But that should give you a warm and cozy
feeling about financing government boondoggles... :-)
From: Gary Frost [email protected]
My first suspect would be the rangefinder out of adjustment.
Does the rangefinder agree with the distance scale on the lens?
If you have a ground glass, try checking the rangefinder accuracy.
At what focus distance did you do your test?
I have a GW690III, and the lens compares quite favorably to a
Rodenstock 150mm APO Sironar S, my reference standard for sharpness.
I have no complaints about the Fuji 90mm f/3.5 lens.
Gary Frost
Ken wrote:
From: [email protected] (Mr 645)
I have one, I bought the body with the 100mm lens for $400 in ok shape.
The lens seems recently cleaned up. I had to have to body repairs twice.
That cost me another $180.
Fun camera, heavy, tough as nails. Not sure why Fuji stopped, but they
stopped a long time ago, before 1980 I think.
The curtain that you have to close to remove the lens, so you don't fog
the film can getmessed up pretty easy, so if you have more than one lens
this can cause a problem. Also, Fuji offers no parts at all for this
model, so if something breaks you searching for used or making your own.
http://www.jonlayephotography.com
From: [email protected] (Blad Nut)
Just bought a similar kit about 2 weeks ago. Have two bodies and 3 lenses
- 50mm(which I didn't even know they made, didn't import to US), 100mm and
180mm. Took it to Keys last weekend and shot 12 rolls. They are great,
sharp chromes, easy and bsasic camera to use. Agree with previous reply
that parts are not available, that is why I got with second body if
anything does happen. Check on return policy and haggle over price but
great system, wish Fuji would bring it back in modern form. Any questions
just email directly.
Good luck - Don
From: "Phil Partridge" [email protected]
Coming from 4x5, you may want to consider Fuji's 65mm version of their big
690 rangefinder, for much the same money. You are gonna miss the DOF, and
the 65mm (a *very* good lens, reportedly better than the 670/690's 90mm)
will be substantially better in this regard (most 35 shooters use 85mm
lenses for isolating subjects, albeit with widish apertures). More
opportunity to crop for DOF in portrait, too, in 6x9, bringing you back to
common paper sizes.
Relatively light at ~1300grams, and the nits people pick are not too
consequential - lens appears in the finder corner, small shutter/aperture
rings, filter usage impeded by the permanently attached hood, noisy
shutter, no metering, not much more. Pretty robust and all mechanical, but
finesse-wise, a Mamiya 7 it isn't. Good buying, and quite a few good ones
out there 2nd hand (many people just don't get on with RFs :-)...check the
film counter if buying used. Cheers, Philip.
Date: Tue, 29 Aug 2000
Hi, Bastiaan,
I have a Fuji GW690II which is functionally similar to yours and has the
same lens. I have had it for ten years. It is a beautiful camera and
produces spectacular results. I use mine for travel, landscape work and
group shots, and for those uses it is ideal. It is a poor close-up camera
and a marginal portrait camera. As for the price you paid, I can't say if
it's a good deal or not. Here in the U.S., it would be an OK deal. New,
the camera costs USD$1278 from B&H Photo and others. Used, they go for
about USD$800-900. Did you check the counter on the bottom of the unit?
If it's a low number (under 50), then the camera has seen little prior
use.
I have gotten sharp pictures all the way to f/32. Admittedly, I have not
used f/3.5 very often due to limited depth of field, so I don't have much
experience with big apertures. At small apertures I don't see much
evidence of diffraction that would degrade sharpness. I usually use f/11
or f/16 for most of my shots. I use a tripod and cable release 99% of the
time.
One minor irritation is the lack of a "B" shutter speed setting. You have
"T" instead, and this can be a bit of a pain to use.
Overall, I can say that in 30 years I have never been any happier with a
camera than this one. Relative to other medium format camera systems such
as Hassleblad, Rollei, Mamiya, Bronica or Pentax, it is a bargain, and it
can produce results equal to any of them.
Hope this helps.
Rick Rieger
Bastiaan A.Schupp [email protected] wrote
Date: Tue, 29 Aug 2000
Splendid choice! The GSW is a great camera. The 65 mm lens exhibits very
high contrast and very, very low flare (this is typical to practically all
modern Fuji lenses.) The color rendition is very good, although I prefer
to use a slight warming gel with slides (10cc magenta or a warming
filter.) IMO the optimum f stop is f/11. You will get theoretical loss of
sharpness at f/32 but you'll be hard-pressed to see it in real life, even
at 10x enlargement. Both shutter releases are smooth, and the shutter
itself is very accurate (minus the gripe below.)
My gripes are: the f@*!ing setting for time exposures (you need to move
the shutter ring to close the shutter when exposing on T.) You can also
move the film winding knob which closes the shutter as well but it also
moves the film before closing the shutter which makes quite charming light
streaks...
The way I do it, I use a big black hat (chapeau-claque) to cover the lens
after exposing on T and then advance the film... I would like to have a
talk with the knucklehead engineer at Fuji (or the shutter
manufacturer...) who actually designed this piece of engineering crap!
Another thing I'd change is the placement and the size of the level
indicator. It is practically useless.
Also, the lens barrel blocks the lower left-hand corner of the image in
the viewfinder (this is a minor thing.)
The lens cap falls off easily (I have put some tape inside it to make it
fit more snugly.)
All complaints aside, the negatives from the Fuji rival those from my 4x5.
'nuff said!
Have fun!
Date: Wed, 30 Aug 2000
...
A solid plastic toy is for my intended purpose much better then a heavy
peace of solid metal. But you're right about its looks. At first sight, it
looks like a very cheap compact from the eighties, which has been
mysteriously enlarged.
Date: Mon, 04 Sep 2000
"Bastiaan A.Schupp"
[email protected] wrote:
1) In my opinion you did not get a particulary good buy on the camera.
About a year ago I bought a GSW690III in mint condition with very a very
low count on the film counter for $825 and I see them on a regular basis
in mint of very good plus condition for around $900.
2) The camera is not very versatile, but for the use you intend it should
fill most of your needs. I would not recommend it at all for portraits or
close-up work. However, my primry interest is landscapes, and I prefer to
work with wide angles lenses, so my camera with the 65mm lens (which gives
coverage approximately equal to a 24mm wide angle on 35mm) is very handly.
A 50mm - 150mm zoon on this camera would be great, though!
3) The fujinon lens are superb, and the combination of a sharp, contrasty
lens with the large 6x9 format makes the results from these cameras as
good or better as those from any other medium format camera, including the
Hasselblad. The 65mm fujinon on my GSW690III is absolutely fabulous, and
print quality up to 16x20 size rivals that of my 5x7 camera.
4) There will be an appreciable loss in sharpness if you use the lens
stopped down to f/32 in comparison to f/11-22. Diffraction is an optical
reality no lens can escape.
5) I really do recommend the use of 220 film with this system. Shooting
with 120 it seems that I spend more time reloading than making negatives!!
Sandy King
Date: 14 Sep 2000
yes they can, as well as with the G670 and GL670 models. They all use the
same lenses.
If you find anything other then the 100mm lens at a reasonable price, I'll
take them.
Jon
http://www.jonlayephotography.com
From Rangefinder Mailing List:
I had the G690BL, which I believe was the predecessor of the GM670
(actually,
built on the same frame).
Advantages: Also known as the Texas M3, it was a very large, very solid
camera with an excellent breech-lock 100/3.5, 150/3.5 and 180/4.5. It
also had a 65/8, which I never saw. The Tessar-type 100 produces
fabulously-contrasty images, despite its heavily taxing the rangefinder.
The 690 was a double-stroke (if I recall - it was 3 years ago).
Caveats:
Extremely expensive if working. The WA is especially $$$.
CLAs generally require a CLA for the body and each lens - and Fuji no
longer services them = $$$
Huge 72mm filter size on a normal lens - unnecessary $$$, considering the
front element is about 30mm wide...
Rangefinder adjustment can stump the pros
I loved the pictures, but I just couldn't deal with the mechanical issues.
Jim Bielecki wrote:
From Rollei Mailing List:
It is a great camera. Very heavy. Lens is not interchangeable and you may
or may not find it too wide. There is also one with a 90mm lens available.
You may want to consider buying both. As an alternative, you may want to
look for a G690 or something like that. That is the first version of the
camera and it came with interchangeable lenses (65, 90, 150 or 180).
I used to have the original one with interchangeable lenses, but finally
sold the darn thing because the weight was killing me.
The lenses are superb and there is no vignetting to speak of.
Andrei D. Calciu
From: Michael Keydel [email protected]
Hi Rick,
Rick Rieger wrote:
This is not the shutter it is the counter who makes this
terrible sound. You can test it with the t-setting.
Michael
From: "ajacobs2" [email protected]
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Lens shade problems woth Fujica GW690
Date: Thu, 07 Mar 2002
Here are excerpts from a conversation on the subject.....quite a long one in
fact and I get the feeling drop the lenshade idea altogether......on the 6x9
Even the newer models have only a small built in....
Enjoy.....
The negative images I've seen have discernable vignetting in corners, have
not seen prints or reproduction. Is this a serious issue when printing for
best personal work or with clients? Does it dissapear with higher f/stop or
has Fuji formatted this lens past its prime area of coverage? Any other
comments welcome. Thanks
Jim
Answers
that's funny I have the gsw and I would think it is more prone to vignetting
but i haven't seen any. My buddy has the gw and I've seen some of his tests
wide open on contact sheets and couldn't see any vignetting either. I'll
look again!
I use 2 GW670s (same lens) extensively with & without filters. I've not had
or heard of vignetting with this lens, unless a sunshade or some issue with
stacked filters occurs. Considering the long life (this is a very mature
product) of this lens with both 6x9cm and 6x7cm formats, I would suspect a
flawed technique or a malfunction in that specific camera/lens.
IMHO, the attached sunshade is a marginal one at that.
Jeff, the 6X7 format rectangle's coverage is well inside the 6X9's coverage.
If there were any vignetting at all visible in 6X7 it would be serious on
the 6X9. What's needed is for someone to look at their chromes taken with
the 6X9 camera wide open (f/stop 3.5) and see if there's any vignetting.
James: I agree with the contention that 6x7cm is covered nicely. My original
point is that this 90mm f/3.5 lens and design has been around a fairly long
time on both 6x7cm AND 6x9cm formats. I've not heard of vignetting with it
except in regard to stacked filters. I'm guessing there are more GW690 users
than GW670 users from the feedback in various forums. There may be something
wrong with your specific lens?
Thanks everyone for inputs.. vignetting is there, but its minimal. As some
have suggested, most often it will show from umbration (shadowing) from
filters or poorly fit lens hood.
The film flatness is good with the Fuji, though as others have tested, the
Mamyia 7 is flatest. Actually the vacuum backs are flatest, but they are
restricted to lab or aerial applications and require a battery and vacuum
pump.
For most new cameras in the MF size, film is the limiting link, not lens
performance which is usually good to excellent... an ok 4X5 lens will
generally produce better 30X40's than the best 2 1/4's simply because
there's no film granularity and the neg area is twice as large.. its hard to
find lenses 2X better. Also because most 4X5 images are taken on tripod
after the image has been composed with a loupe.
In any case, the response seems to be Fuji 6X9 has minimal vignetting and
good film plane flatness, good optics and light weight. Drawbacks include
inconvenience of metering by some other means, lack of time exposure, and
interchangability of lenses..
well James I'd consider the ebc lenses better than good, but that's only
when comparing them to lenses that are normally bolted to blads......are
these daylight images or flash pics? I'm not sure I understand the basis for
your post...are you considering buying a fuji?
Sorry, I reserve superlatives for true rarity.. the Fuji lens is superior to
most. How's that!
Yes I was considering buying one but had some reservations. I shoot mostly
with Linhof selected lenses in 4X5 format. I've had Hassy's, Rollie, Plaubel
and Linhof medium format. The subject matter I wanted it for was very fast
action hand held shooting with high color saturation films of typically low
ASA (not more than 100), which means high shutter speeds and open f/stop of
3.5. Therefore I wanted to know about vignetting and film plane negative
flatness.
Again, thanks for all the input on the Fuji. This site is a treasure of
knowledgable and generous photographers willing to share their experience.
I've used four different Fuji rangefinder cameras of various configuration
(6x9 & 6x7, 90mm and 65mm) using Velvia and Reala (a few years ago) and
printed up to 24x30 with nary a hint of vignetting...t
Just looked at some slides and negs I took last week with a GSW 690, mostly
shot wide open (largest aperture). Nope, not even the slightest hint of
vignetting. Perfectly even all the way into the corners.
the fuji's top shutter speed is 1/500th, so it may not do the work you
describe. The lenses are top notch, you won't find a better lens for any
format even from germany(you must however take into consideration the
slightly bigger neg also). I understand why you bring up film flatness
issues and yes that is much more important than a good lens but I assure you
my prints from the fuji are tack sharp and vignetteless corner to corner.
I've heard that the ebc line outperforms the planar t line in resolution
tests, the ebc is slightly more contrasty than most planars but I shoot
print film primarily black and white so I have control over contrast and in
any case it's easy to test and find less contrasty emulsions. I don't think
the fuji is built for the work you do, I bought mine for the opposite
reasons...i wanted to use delta 3200. I shoot linhof select only in 4x5
also, so I understand the qualitative nature of your question more clearly
now and if you'd said you wanted a great camera for street shooting ...I'd
say, "GET IT! and you may begin to consider buying a fuji lens for your
linhof. The difference is slight!"
-- triblett Lungre-Thurd, October 05, 1999; 10:37 A.M. Eastern
Just to add slightly to Tribby's comparative comment - there is lurking on
the 'net somewhere a comparison between a Fuji GSW lens and a Zeiss Biogon.
Apparently the Zeiss is less sharp.
I currently own and use the GSW69, and used to have a GW69, and have had no
vignetting problem with either camera. I have read a previous post which
referred to "the GSW vignetting problem" but this was in reference to the
viewfinder image on the GSW which does lose the corner due to the angle of
view and the intrusion of the lens barrel.
Great cameras, and with Velvia the trannys make editors go weak at the
knees.
I diddled with the sunshade and it can easily get cockeyed and cause a
slight vignette wide open. If the shade and filters are deployed properly,
should be no problem. IMHO, the attached lens shade is the weakest link on
the lens. But, for resolution, contrast and consistency, the lens is A-1.
Judging by others' comments here, why don't we petition Fuji to do our wish
list for the GW series?
The only time I have ever found even the equivalent to vignetting was when I
used a flash that did not cover the slightly wide-angle view that the GW690
provides. My fault, not the camera's. In available light, wide open... like
the others who posted here; no sign of vignetting. Those Fujinon lenses are
incredibly sharp and contrasty as well.
I've been using a GW690III for a couple of years and have observed the
vignetting problem described here, as well as mentioning it here in MFD.
Normally I use Provia 100 film, and for typical moving subjects on a sunny
day here in the UK the right exposure is 1/500 @f5.6 There is noticeable
vignetting in the corners at this aperture which gets progressively worse as
you open up the aperture. It is most noticeable in the corners of blue
skies. The problem is much less at f8, but I can't report at f11 as I rarely
use that aperture. I don't use any filters, only the built-in lens shade,
which I would think is unlikely to cause any vignetting itself. The position
of the vignetting in the 6x9 frame is such that anyone with a Fuji 670 would
not see it.
In a test of the Hasselblad Xpan I read a reviewer say that the corners of
the frame were darkened in the sky area and that this was due to an effect
of the sky rather than actual lens vignetting. I'm not an optical expert and
so can't comment on this authoritatively, except to say that the effect on
the pictures in the mag looked like vignetting to me !
By way of comparison, my Pentax 67 lenses (105, 55) don't suffer from
comparable vignetting at any aperture.
In summary, answering the original question "How serious is Fuji GW690
vignetting?" I'd say that based on my experience if you're taking
photographs that include the sky, at wider than f8 aperture you will
definitely notice vignetting. With hand printing you could compensate at the
printing stage. If doing unretouched repro in a magazine from
transparencies, it might be a problem.
Sincerity is the bait of probity, is it baffling? Perhaps there's an answer
here. I just looked at a chrome from a Fuji 90. It included a deep blue sky
and yes there is vignetting. However, the shot is taken into the sun.
There's no lens flare, the sun was perhaps at the 11:00 and 5- 10 degrees
above the actual view, the glass itself was protected but the shadows
definitely point at the the camera. If one were actually there, the sun
would be fully in your face.
Perhaps its a function of baffling, every pun intended of course. The
extreme interior edges of the barrel may be dampening out more light under
into the sun conditions, and they may be doing it more with blue light
wavelengths. So! Those who have chromes, sort them into two piles A. into
the sun including blue sky B. sun at back grey day and see if there's a
difference.
Its been my experience with other lenses that if there's any vignetting it
occurs with every shot, but that some compositions disguise it with busy
content, while others seem to emphasize it. A test would be to shoot and
absolutely consistent nothing colored wall with perfectly even lighting..
and also to take four or five images on a crystal blue sky day including an
image of 2/3rd sky into eight different directions and see if it gains in
any direction.
I almost never shoot towards the sun or have much sky in my photos.
Interesting! I wouldn't see it in 6x7cm version, but I probably should check
some of my earlier work for same concepts. When I used to shoot 6x9 it was
with Horseman cameras and never gave coverage a thought except at 4x5. I
really appreciate reading the above, it gets me thinking in new ways! Thanks
to James for keeping this thread going. Personally I really prefer 6x7cm
format for a few good reasons. One more just surfaced, but it was dumb luck
on my part. Thanks again!
I'll tag one more time: In telescope tuning, the light baffle issues are
somewhat critical. Proper baffling significantly enhances the image
produced. Perhaps manufacturing consistency is wanting in the case of 90mm
f/3.5 fitted to the 6x9cm format? I wouldn't realize it at 6x7, I hope.
Other threads in other forums have compared lesser expensive lenses against
top name brands with similar features. Consensus is that a well made lens
beats (for picture quality) a sloppy one, no matter the cost or brand name.
I guess that's obvious. But it puts the onus for lens testing on the user in
the real world. Thanks again for letting me participate!
From: "Michael Healy" [email protected]
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Fuji GW690 III Opinions
Date: Sun, 25 Mar 2001
I have not used the GW690 III (w/90mm lens); however, I have been using a
GSW690 III (w/65mm lens) as my main camera for 2 1/2 years now.
Whether this is the camera for you depends on your shooting habits. For
landscape it is great. I actually have used it indoors for tabletop work,
but it is rather limiting. In particular, the lens only focuses to about 3
feet. Also, since it is a rangefinder, you are not going to be making any
critical focusing with this camera. Additionally, I have used it handheld
for people shots, and the results certainly are large; but again, it is
somewhat cumbersome in this use. Focusing is slow and (for people or sports)
will seem imprecise. The best use for this camera is landscape. If that is
your interest, this camera can be a gem.
It is portable and simple to operate. It functions much like an oversized
35mm rangefinder. In fact, its aspect ratio is nearly the same as 35mm's.
It has are no bells and whistles. Only the lens, a rangefinder, and the
shutter. Not even a meter. The images are large, though, and beautiful. At
f22 and f32, you can get depth of field from infinity on down to about 4
feet. I think of the camera as a happy compromise between 6x6 (much larger
negs) and 4x5 (way more convenient and faster to use when you don't feel
like lugging around a 4x5). I seldom consult the depth of field markings on
the lens because the manual provides a comprehensive chart. I have used this
very closely -- VERY closely -- with extremely fine and predictable results.
I have to stress, though, that I am a landscape shooter. If I am not using
this camera, then I am using a Yashicamat-G or a 4x5. I have no qualms about
slow picture-taking. This is not to say that the GW or GSW can't be used
more quickly or more sloppily, just that this is what I demand of it, and it
gives it to me in spades. Other uses may have additional insight on this
point.
III series has a small level on top. I use this a lot. Also, there is a
shutter counter built into the bottom of the body. It moves one increment
for every ten firings. Fuji recommends that after something like 5000
firings, you have the shutter serviced. Presumably for this reason, it will
not fire unless the camera is loaded.
Like most cameras, the Fuji is not the ideal camera. It does have its cons.
Con: fixed length lens. It's cheaper than a Mamiya with interchangeable
lenses, but still -- you're stuck with the lens. Incidentally, you might ask
yourself whether a 90mm lens really is the lens you want. I recommend you
consider the 65mm (about the equivalent of 25-28mm in 35mm), but again, it
depends on your needs. Recently I got back into taking my Yashicamat-G with
me so I have two lenses to work with. I have heard of people owning both the
90mm and the 65mm Fujis, though, and carrying them both around.
Con: on the GSW, the lens actually blocks a portion of the rangefinder's
view. Several friends have remarked on this, but it does not bother me. If
you demand perfect framing, then you may need to look to another camera.
Personally, I almost never have a problem with this. The rangefinder screen
doesn't "see" in perfect unison with the lens anyhow, so I'm usually
cropping a little in my prints. No big deal. By the way, I know of one
well-known landscape photographer who has purchased a separate viewfinder
that attaches to the hotshoe. I think this eliminates the rangefinder
problem.
Con: The film advance requires two motions. The first advances the film, the
second cocks the shutter. I have no problems with this at all (like using
4x5 or the old Yashica 635). It doesn't even take getting used to. BUT it
will make you feel like a fumbler in the event you want to use it at your
kid's basketball games.
Con: The one problem I have NOT gotten used to, is the t-setting. It only
ACTS like a t-setting. When you fire the shutter on t-, then it will remain
open until you make to close it. Sounds an awful lot like a t-setting, no?
The trouble is, you cannot close the shutter (ending the exposure) simply by
firing it a second time when you're ready. It cannot be fired a second time.
What you have to do is reach around and use your fingers to turn the shutter
dial off t- onto 1 second. This trips the shutter closed. Or you can do what
I do, and just advance the film. This also will trip the shutter. The Fuji
manual actually recommends the former, which is ludicrous. You'll find this
out with a single try. Personally, I trip it by advancing the film. HOWEVER,
this isn't so great, either. The fact is, the film will advance about 1/4 of
the image BEFORE the shutter closes. This means that if you shoot night
landscapes, and happen to have bright lights in the scene (street lamps, the
moon...), then these will expose a streak of brilliant light across your
film until the actual closing of the shutter. This ruined a number of my
images before I figured out the nature of the problem. I always have a hat
on hand, or my gray card, with which I quickly and deftly cover the lens in
the millisecond before advancing the film to trip the t- setting closed. If
it sounds like a royal, exasperating pain in the ass, it is; but I would
never consider giving up the camera over this point. Just something to bear
in mind. By the way, there is no b-setting. Only a t-.
Con: the dials for the shutter speed and f-stop are somewhat small. A very
minor point, but it's there. This, by the way, is the second reason you
don't want to go shopping for the shutter dial when you mean to end a
t-setting exposure.
I have elaborated on the cons because you don't want to be surprised.
However, all of these are all minor, even the t-setting problem. (Although
frankly I wonder how much money Fuji could possibly have saved in this
shortcut.) I adore this camera. The enlargements are phenomenal. Personally,
I have only enlarged to 16x20, but I have seen prints made by Len Jenshel
from this camera, and at 20x24 and 30x40, they look awfully good. My own
pictures from this camera are better than anything I've gotten with any
other camera except my 4x5. This comparison is unfair, though. The Fuji is
fifty times more versatile, and weighs a lot less. A wonderful camera. For
the right uses (especially landscape or cityscape), I can't recommend it
highly enough.
Michael Healy
"Russell Wheeldon" [email protected] wrote
> Thinking of moving on from my Moskva 5 and buying one of these devices.
> Anyone any thoughts? Pros / Cons? Praise / problems?
From: Barry S [email protected]
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Fuji GW690 III Opinions
Date: Sun, 25 Mar 2001
What an excellent review. I concur with all of Michael's points. The
GSW690 is a superb tool that yields spectacular negatives and chromes.
It does need to be used on a tripod, though, so don't think handheld
grab shots. The optical quality is tremendous with good performance
at f5.6 quickly turning to great at f8.0 and below. The amount of
light falloff is negligible, which really surprised me.
One more quirky aspect is the viewfinder, which has a considerable
amount of barrel distortion. As Michael mentioned, a bubble level is
essential. You won't be tempted to buy any accessories, because there
aren't any! The camera is pretty compact, considering, so I can fit
my kit of camera, spotmeter, and film into a small Domke satchel. The
tripod always comes along.
All in all, they're a great bargain in MF, and are available used at
very good prices.
Barry S.
From: Babar de Saint Cyr [email protected]
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Fuji GW690 III Opinions
Date: Tue, 27 Mar 2001
> Con: The one problem I have NOT gotten used to, is the t-setting.
This is for modern GW or GSW models.
The old model GL690 I have has B-setting.
Fine to pause-T with a release cable.
Another cons: You cannot shoot full face portrait
du to 1m minimum distance for the 100mm lens
and 2m for the 150mm lens.
(Same problem with my Yashica MAT)
Hope my english helps :)
Babar (France)
From: Babar de Saint Cyr [email protected]
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Fuji G690
Date: Sat, 13 Jul 2002
> I've been offered the older G690 with the 100mm lens. Do you know if the
> 100mm lens has a coating similar to the newer EBC coating?
No. All interchangeable lens are only single-coated.
Take a look at http://perso.wanadoo.fr/apple2/fuji690.htm
The first photo is my camera.
Babar
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Fuji G690
From: [email protected] (David Stein)
Date: Sat, 13 Jul 2002
Babar de Saint Cyr [email protected] wrote:
> http://perso.wanadoo.fr/apple2/fuji690.htm
THANKS FOR THE GREAT WEB SITE. You don't need multi-coated lenses.
That 100mm lens on the original "Texas Leica" is one of the finest
lenses ever made-it has superb color discrimination and unlike so many
modern lenses isn't over-contrasty-thus better tonalities. Modern films
are super-saturated and contrasty as it is.
[Ed. note: possibly handy tip for older photographers with changing eyesight?]
From: Babar de Saint Cyr [email protected]
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Fuji GW690 diopter eyepiece
Date: Sat, 31 Aug 2002
John Eyles a �crit :
>
> I would like to change the viewfinder on my Fuji GW690
> to accomodate my far-sighted/presbyopic eyes.
>
> First question - I want a +1 or +2 diopter, if I need
> reading glasses, but I can see distant objects just fine
> unaided, right ?
>
> Second - which ones fit the GW690 ? Searches show ones only
> for the 680 cameras. B&H's webpage have a cryptic comment that
> "This camera will accept viewfinder eyepiece correction diopters
> from Nikon's FM series", but B&H shows one line that fits FM10 and
> another that fits FM2. From the photo, the FM10 looks wrong, so
> I'm hoping the FM2 one is what I want (i.e. Nikon Catalog # 2932,
> B&H Catalog # NIDP1FM2).
>
> Does anyone know for sure ?
I have a Nikon FM2, a Nikon FM10 and a FUJI GL690 :)
Fuji GL690 and Nikon FM2 have circular compatible eye-piece.
Nikon FM10 has rectangular eye-piece.
Take a look at http://perso.wanadoo.fr/apple2/fuji690.htm.
You will see a GL690 with a Nikon DR3 right-angle finder.
This DR3 mounts on FM2, FA, etc...
Babar
From: "Jeff" [email protected]
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: 6x9 used camera...
Date: Mon, 9 Dec 2002
I paid $600 CDN (less than $400 US) for my Fuji G690. Worth every penny.
Jeff.
"Kamox" [email protected] wrote
> I'd like to try the 6x9 format without spending too much cash (under
> $300)... is this possible?
> What should I seek for?
From: Jeff [email protected]
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Need recommendation on flash for Fujica G690
Date: Mon, 03 Mar 2003
Hi Bill,
I've owned the same camera for the past 9 months.
It is an awesome camera. The proof is in the negs and trannies I shot, including
some handheld shots at 1/8" & 1/15".
I did shoot a Henna Party (Moroccan pre-wedding ceremony) recently.
Since the lens is slightly wide (43mm equiv.) it lends itself for small group
shots at 10 to 12 feet distance.
For portraits, I shot shoot 3/4 lenght shots and cropped.
As for flash, I used a Sunpak PZ5000AF, attached to the camera via a hotshoe to
PC adaptor. The flash was mounted on a Stroboframe bracket to allow me to turn
the camera while keeping the flash above it at all times.
A bounce reflector or a Stofen Omnibounce is a must.
I used NPH 220 film for 2 reasons.
First, it allowed me to use a higher F stop with the flash.
Second, I could shoot 16 exposures before reloading.
HTH,
Jeff
From rangefinder mailing list:
Date: Fri, 10 Jan 2003
From: Dante Stella [email protected]
Subject: Fuji 690 update
This is a quick note; I received the Fujinon 65/8 and finder from San
Franciso today. Lovely.
It quite simply has the most sophisticated single-frame accessory
finder I have ever seen (sorry, Cosina). It has *projected*
brightlines (i.e. it has its own illuminator window) and dial parallax
correction that matches the focusing distanced on the lens (first and
last time ever for a 28mm-field lens). Best of all, unlike the newer
GSW series fixed 65mm cameras, you are not trying to frame through part
of the lens. The finder, even at the closest setting, does not look at
the lens at all. Gold beamsplitter coatings (with characteristic blue
tinge) and no distortion.
The proof, of course, is in the shooting and in the bricks of
Verichrome I am hoarding.
More to come. When it's light out.
> Hello,
>
> Has anyone had experience with more than one version of the Fuji
> GW690? I'm planning on purchasing one and would like to know the
> strengths of the various versions made through the last 15 years or so.
From: Richard [email protected]
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Fuji GW690s
From: "Rick Rieger" [email protected]
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Fuji GW690s
From: "Gregory Popovitch" [email protected]
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Fuji GW690s
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Experience with Fuji GSW690?
Date: Thu, 08 Jun 2000
Hi,
has anybody experiences with the Fuji GSW 690? E.g.:
- Quality of the lens
- Quality of the finder
- Usability for photographing landscapes
- Price for used kameras
Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2000
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Fuji 6x9 lens disappointing
> After hearing so much about the incredible sharpness of the
> Fujinon 90mm on the 6x9s, I bit into one. Hmmm, not really.
> On a tripod and set at the sweet spot of f/11 (?), this is
> certainly not as good of an image as my old 4x5 with an
> Ektar, or an old Rollie with a Planar. I want to believe
> its great having had it too long to return it, but it
> really isnt. Or, and heres my question, is there a way to
> find out if this is a subpar lens, due to overproduction?
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Date: 28 Jul 2000
Subject: Re: Fujica G690 ???
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Date: 28 Jul 2000
Subject: Re: Fujica G690 ???
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Date: Fri, 18 Aug 2000
Subject: Re: Prints from 6x7 vs. 4x5
> Might 6x7 fill my needs for a simple, portable camera-on-tripod, when I
> don't want to haul the 4x5 system, yet still make "stunningly
> sharp" 16x20's? The specific camera in consideration is one of the
> Fuji rangefinders with fixed 90mm lens. I have read a bit that
> it's a very fine, sharp lens.
>
> Howard Lester
From: "Rick Rieger" [email protected]
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: what about a fuji gw 690 III
> Hi,
>
> I very recently bought a fuji gw 690III at approx $1200 (demo-model, looks
> like new). (fujinon 90mm/3.5 lens, 55*82.6 mm^2). Can anyone tell me
> whether this was a good or a bad buy (preferably the first :-) ) and if it
> is a really versatile camera (well, for a fixed lens) or if it is not good
> for anything. I intend to use it for landscape photography both in colour
> and black&white (I am not a professional). I also would apprieciate to hear
> tips and experiences about its use, and comments about the quality of its
> lens and negatives. Does anyone know how far to stop it down to get optimum
> quality (ie. arguably maximum contrast, and no dark corners), and if it is
> possible to stop it down to f 32 without significant losses.
> My own experiences (two films, haven't seen the results yet) are that it is
> easy to handle, very easy to focus, not to bulky, heavy or otherwise
> difficult to take along in my backpack. I get get the large negatives
> printed easily (and not really expensive) so thats no disadvantage.
>
> Well,
> Thanks if you can let me know anything!
>
>
> Bastiaan A. Schupp
From: "eMeL" [email protected]
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: what about a fuji gw 690 III
Michael
From: "Bastiaan A.Schupp" [email protected]
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: what about a fuji gw 690 III
From: [email protected] (Sandy King)
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: what about a fuji gw 690 III
> Hi,
>
> I very recently bought a fuji gw 690III at approx $1200 (demo-model, looks
> like new). (fujinon 90mm/3.5 lens, 55*82.6 mm^2). Can anyone tell me
> whether this was a good or a bad buy (preferably the first :-) ) and if it
> is a really versatile camera (well, for a fixed lens) or if it is not good
> for anything. I intend to use it for landscape photography both in colour
> and black&white (I am not a professional). I also would apprieciate to hear
> tips and experiences about its use, and comments about the quality of its
> lens and negatives. Does anyone know how far to stop it down to get optimum
> quality (ie. arguably maximum contrast, and no dark corners), and if it is
> possible to stop it down to f 32 without significant losses.
> My own experiences (two films, haven't seen the results yet) are that it is
> easy to handle, very easy to focus, not to bulky, heavy or otherwise
> difficult to take along in my backpack. I get get the large negatives
> printed easily (and not really expensive) so thats no disadvantage.
From: [email protected] (Mr 645)
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Can Fuji g690 bl690 and gl690 all interchange lenses and what
is the difference between the bodies? THX
Date: Sun, 29 Oct 2000
From: Dante A Stella [email protected]
Subject: Re: [RF List] Any opinion on the Fuji GM670?
> > From: "Austin Franklin" [email protected]
> >Subject: [RF List] Any opinion on the Fuji GM670?
>
> > The Fuji GM670 looks to be more or less what I am looking for...a fully
> > manual MF RF with a lense on the short telephoto side...but I can't find
> > much information on it...
>
> Fuji has a long history of making medium format rangefinders. They used to
> make an interchangeable lens 6X7 rangefinder, years back, that took wide
> angle, normal and short telephoto lenses. This may be the GM series camera
> you're referring to. I've seen them at camera shows but that's about it. I
> know they're big (kind of a giant Leica) and that the lenses contain leaf
> shutters. Maybe somebody else on this list can offer more on the GM 670?
>
> Fuji currently offers both the GW-670 and GW-690 series of cameras. The 670
> and one version of the 690 came with a 90mm F3.5 lens. The wide angle
> version of the 690 comes with a 65mm F.6 lens. Again, these are large
> cameras and I hear they produce excellent images.
>
> Jim Bielecki
Date: Tue, 2 Jan 2001
From: [email protected]
Subject: Re: [Rollei] Fuji GSWIII with 5.6/65mm - any good?
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Date: Wed, 28 Mar 2001
Subject: Re: Fuji GW690 III Opinions
> group shots, and for travel. The camera is well made, but the shutter
> sounds really cheap (and loud) when fired. It seems to work fine, time
--
Deutscher Wetterdienst
Medizin-Meteorologie Freiburg
Tel./Fax: 0761-28202-40
E-Mail: [email protected]
From: [email protected] (Blad Nut)
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Date: 12 Oct 2001
Subject: Re: Texas Leica URL Re: Leica 6x9 RF (Fuji G/GL690 RF)?
Bob et al. - For the Fuji G690 series there were also a 50mm and 180mm lenses,
but they were not imported from Japan. They can occasionally be found on EBay
used. I had one of each and were very nice lenses, but very heavy as a kit.Most
lenses in the series took 72mm filters. Regards, Don Weston
From: Babar de Saint Cyr [email protected]>
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Texas Leica URL Re: Leica 6x9 RF (Fuji G/GL690 RF)?
Date: Sat, 13 Oct 2001
> There were three Fuji medium format rangefinders that took interchangeable
> lenses: the G690, BL-690, and the GL-690 (or was it GS-690, I forget).
I own a GL690. I beleive GS690 come from a confusion with GS645.
G690 and BL690 are the same camera G690BL (the Breech-Lock model).
Try a genealogic tree:
G690BL (1968)
GL690 (begin of 70')
GW690 & GSW690 (1983)
GW690II & GSW690II (1986)
GW690III & GSW690III (1992 & 1993)
Babar
From: Babar de Saint Cyr [email protected]>
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Q: GL690 lens mount type
Date: Thu, 01 Nov 2001
> I understand the interchangeable lenses that fit the GL690 will fit other
> types of Fuji camera. My question is "what is the name of the mount for
> these lenses?"
BL = Breech-Lock.
Mount on G690BL, GL690 and GM670.
Babar