Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1996/04/01
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]Hi all! Just two add one more thing to the discussion about (former) U.S.S.R. rangefinder cameras: I bought a FED 5 about 20 months ago as a backup camera and I am rather satisfied with it. Here in Germany, you can buy it regularly for DM 150 (US$ 100), including a one year's guarantee. The first one had to be replaced because the shutter didn't work but there was no problem with the replacement. And the second one did it's job until now. It comes with a f2.8/55m lens on a Leica compatible screwmount, the rangefinder seems to be quite accurate as far as the distance metering is concerned (works in the same way as with M Leicas) but you don't have frames and you can't be really sure about what is on the film. It has a fabric shutter and the back can be removed for film loading. The body is a bit bulkier than that of an M Leica. I wouldn't say that it's a real fine camera but it's the type of camera that you can have with you always without worrying about it getting stolen or damaged. Before you spend US$ 200 to 400 for a Leica II copy you should also consider this one. Bye, Edi. PS: I'm sure Mr. Small knows more about this camera than I do.