Jun 6, 1993 - Aimed at a professional market, the Leica RE, R6.2 and the R7 compete with the Contax S2, ST, M146 and the RTS III. The Leica R7 lists for. This feature is not available right now. Please try again later. One thing to consider about the S2, it's all manual aside from the meter. Less electronics to break so this camera will have a longer life. The electronic Contax cameras are getting on in years, in some cases over 20 years old. They have a limited life and I'm sure the last Contax working in the future will be either an S2 or S2B.

1. Contax Rx

After more than a decadeof technological innovation, the multimode SLR cameras now dominatejust about every brand on the market. Packed with a full array of capabilities,their 'intelligent' exposure meters, multiple Programs, 'fuzzy logic'computers, and predictive AF systems offer valuable advantages. Andyet, the fully manual SLR and rangefinder cameras continue to hold theirown in even in this high tech era.That's because some photographersreject the automation, insisting on exercising control over the entireprocess. Then there are those who prefer the simplicity of old-stylecameras which allow anyone to shoot intuitively without a steep learningcurve.

Others are looking for a rugged body as a backup to more sensitivemultimode SLRs-in sub-zero conditions, or in electronics-frying temperatures.In addition, many photography teachers recommend all-manual rangefinderor SLRs as the best way to learn about exposure and focusing effects.Thus schools and photo courses are great homes for new and used manualSLRs.Whenever the photographerstrays far from the nearest source of batteries, one of the models witha fully mechanical shutter will make for a suitable companion. Naturally,metering will cease to function without power. Yet there are severaloptions for accurate exposure: the Sunny f/16 Rule, the tips packedwith film, an accessory light meter, or simply relying on experienceas your guide.My survey of the market revealeda surprising number of all-manual, interchangeable lens cameras, somewith fully mechanical shutters. This means that the shutter is cockedby advancing the film mechanism.

The following range from the inexpensivestarter SLRs to the more pricey models with high prestige value, forthose who can afford superior craftsmanship and materials. None of thecameras surveyed include any automatic features. Note that some do includeTTL flash metering capability with dedicated units, while several featurea PC cord socket; the latter will be appreciated by those who use studioflash systems.Best Of Both WorldsCombining a Carl Zeiss pedigree with Kyocera engineering, the ContaxS2 and S2b benefit from the expertise of both partners. Identical inall other respects, the S2 incorporates spot metering while the S2boffers center-weighted metering. Operating either beauty is an exercisein simplicity, true to its developers' mandate: 'Choose mechanical overelectronic mechanisms where these will heighten precision, reliability,and durability.' Even so, the conventional S2 models have a couple of'modern' amenities as noted in our Technical Specifications.The shutter is mechanicaland the classy aluminum alloy and titanium body is constructed withremarkable dedication to quality control; offering extraordinary structuralintegrity.

The S2/S2b is extensively sealed against dust and moisture,while shock absorbing precautions safeguard internal mechanisms. Contaxoffers nearly three dozen T.

lenses but few accessories for the S2/S2b,dedicated to a 'simple is best' principle. Whether this limits youroptions, or encourages a return to the fundamentals of photography,depends entirely on your own perspective. The Leica EssentialsThe latest of the M-series rangefinders, the M6TTL, gained TTL flash meteringbut otherwise maintains the Leica philosophy of concentrating on the essentialsof photography. There is a second model, the 'M6TTL 0.85,' which offersgreater range/view finder magnification: 0.85x vs.

The standard 0.72x.Its viewfinder includes frame lines for lenses 35-135mm (instead of 28-135mm)plus a 20 percent larger viewing area and a larger distance measuringfield. Hence, it's most useful with longer lenses and in low light orlow contrast conditions.These are all-manual, mechanicalcameras with TTL ambient light metering of the central image area. Otherfeatures include a die-cast metal body, plated with black or silver chrome;extreme ruggedness; high shock resistance; and a design intended for flawlessoperation even in extreme temperatures. New amenities include a larger,knurled shutter speed dial for greater ease of adjustments, automatictransmission of ISO data, greater shutter speed accuracy, and a 'poweroff' setting to conserve the battery. The improved metering guidance signalsand new 'Flash Ready' and 'Flash Exposure OK' signals in the viewfinderalso make the new cameras even more desirable than the previous M6.This is a small but hefty cameraof high-grade zinc, aluminum, and brass. Superior craftsmanship, perfectfinish, and technical excellence matching its lofty price distinguishthis Leica SLR.

All controls provide silky smooth operation. Assuringthe loyalty of Leicaphiles, over three dozen lenses include superlativeoptics and mechanisms. The Traditionalist's NikonsAlthough Nikon designers are masters of advanced technology, they recognizea continuing demand for a fully mechanical SLR. In arctic conditions whenbatteries fail, and LCD panels fade, the rugged FM2N is just what thedoctor ordered. The epitome of reliability, its shutter will keep operatingat all speeds, while the other mechanisms should remain up to the challengeas well.The FM2N is a suitable backupto an autofocus Nikon SLR as it accepts AF and conventional Nikkor lenses.Of course you won't get autofocusing or the benefits of D-type Nikkorlenses, but Nikon F-mount consistency is a major plus. Housed in the die-castalloy body (or titanium in the FM2T) are several meaningful capabilities,all simple to access. Flash control is manual andnon-TTL, as with most of the models surveyed.

Contax Rx

Use an accessory flash meterfor the most precise control of flash exposure or a Speedlite with externalsensor when you want some automatic assist. Since this type measures distanceinstead of reflectance, accurate results are possible even with ultra-bright,or backlit, subjects.Nikon's entry-level FM10 isa highly affordable model used by many students. This model includes depthof field preview and multiple exposure control. It's generally sold ina kit with a Nikkor 35-70mm f/3.5-4.8 zoom but accepts the vast rangeof Nikkor manual and AF lenses. This camera is compact and lightweightand features an attractive black and champagne colored exterior. Olympus DuoA classic OM camera in refined form, the OM-3Ti is renowned for the rigid,corrosion and impact-resistant aluminum alloy chassis with elegant titaniumtop and bottom cover. The shutter is mechanically controlled in this compact,precise instrument which combines time-tested features with some technicaladvances.Serious photographers willappreciate the Highlight and Shadow control that automatically compensatesfor ultra-bright or very dark-toned scenes.

Or use multi spot metering,taking precise measurements of two to eight segments of a scene; the OM3-Tiwill average the readings, displaying each, plus the cumulative value,on a bar graph in the finder. More importantly perhaps, there's the abilityto synchronize with flash at shutter speeds to 1/2000 sec when used withaccessory flash F280. At the higher speeds, its distance range diminishesmarkedly, calling for faster film, wider aperture, or moving closer tothe subject. Still, this versatility will be appreciated: for depth offield control in bright light and in extreme close-up photography. Overtwo dozen Zuiko lenses plus an extensive line of accessories are available. The Student's PhoenixThere are two Phoenix models, including the all-manual P1 with its mechanicalshutter and K-mount to accept many brands of lenses. A polycarbonate bodymakes this a lightweight but rugged model available in black or titaniumfinish.

Although he mentioned the lack of depth of field preview in hisreview of this camera, Tom Fuller offered the following positive comments(Shutterbug, May 2000): 'The Phoenix P1 represents one of the best valuestoday€design, construction, and engineering are quite impressive€ thismay become the new 'syllabus camera' for students worldwide.' Classic VoigtlnderPhotographers who want something unique should check out the new Voigtlndercameras from THK Photo Products Inc. Substantially similar, the fullymanual Bessa-L and Bessa-R feature a 39mm L-screwmount system and aremade with a die-cast aluminum chassis plus some polycarbonate parts. TheBessa-L is a scale-focusing model while the Bessa-R has a coupled opticalrangefinder for precise focusing with longer lenses.

The viewfinder ofthe latter includes parallax adjusted frame lines for 35mm, 50mm, 75mm,and 90mm lenses, changed with a switch on top of the camera. The Voigtlnder25mm and 15mm lenses are not rangefinder-coupled, so use the separateshoe-mount finder (included).TTL center-weighted light meteringis standard on both models, but cannot be used with lenses that have extremelyshort back-focus. The Bessa-L sports LED exposure signals on the cameraback, while the LED lights of the Bessa-R are visible in the viewfinder.A mechanical metal shutter is used, with a double-bladed design that preventsstray light from reaching the film. Both cameras are available in silveror black.

The new Voigtlnder lenses offer exceptional resolution andcontrast. In his review of the Bessa-R (Shutterbug, July 2000), RogerW.

Hicks wrote that the camera is 'a joy to use' and he found physicaloperation became 'almost instinctive' quite soon. Affordable AlternativesVivitar offers the V4000 all-manual camera. Sold in a kit with a 35-70mmzoom, this model's K-mount will accept a multitude of lenses from variousmanufacturers. Vivitar chose not to employ a mechanical shutter, specifyingan electronic mechanism instead, for greater long-term accuracy.Another similar model recentlycame to my attention, the Kalimar KX-5000.

(Kalimar is now a divisionof the Tiffen Companies.) As indicated in our specs, this too is a back-to-basicsmodel, sold in a kit with a lens. This camera employs the Pentax K-mounttoo, so you'll be able to find numerous lenses from various manufacturers,either new, or used.

Tiffen's other new company, Kodak Gear, now sellssome K-mount lenses as well.Because they are not availableeverywhere, our specs do not include the Ukrainian and Russian made cameras.For information, check the Kiev/USA and Russian Camera Exchange ads inShutterbug, or visitandon the web. Bob Shell indicates that the Kiev 19-with polycarbonate bodyand Nikon AI mount-is an 'old-fashioned' camera with metal bladed focalplane shutter. It's 'solidly made with accurate TTL exposure metering(manual) and a nice and bright viewfinder image' plus depth of field previewcontrol, PC cord socket, and hot shoe for non-TTL flash. The Fed 5C (Kiev/USA) is aRussian Leica-inspired camera that accepts screwmount lenses made forZenit and Zorki.

Its cloth focal-plane shutter offers speeds from 1 to1/500 sec with 1/30 sec flash synch; the built-in meter does not requirebatteries and parallax compensation marks are provided in the finder.The metric focusing scale gets down to one meter. The Zenit 122K featuresthe popular K-mount, TTL metering, hot shoe, PC cord socket, and LED signalsin the viewfinder. It's sold with a 58mm f/2 preset lens. Other Zenitmodels are also available.Cambridge Camera Exchange respondswith the Cambron TTL with screw thread mount, internal CdS meter thatdoes not require batteries, and an all-metal ('airplane alloy') body.Apparently, 'the gears are machined and set in Rheslum bushings like thebest Swiss watches.' It's sold in a kit with 58mm f/2 lens. (See theirShutterbug ad or )The Rangefinder CameraAlthough the Single Lens Reflex (SLR) camera is most common in the 35mmformat today, several rangefinder cameras also accept interchangeablelenses. Instead of allowing you to view the scene through the single lensthat will record the image (like an SLR) these cameras use a rangefinder:a viewing system above or beside the lens.

With the current models, theview is quite accurate. You do see what will be recorded on film thanksto a sophisticated viewfinder that adjusts to the lens focal length andthe focused distance.

With telephoto lenses (usually as long as 90mm or135mm, depending on the brand) you may need to check lines in the finderfor the correct angle of view. Also, for accurate framing in any extremeclose-up photography, you may need to check the parallax compensationmarks in the finder.Rangefinder cameras are certainlyworth considering. With one of these models, you can see the subject atall times, as the view does not black out when the image is being taken.The cameras (and lenses) are usually smaller, less conspicuous, and virtuallysilent in operation. Most models are elegant, offering a prestigious lookand feel plus fine mechanical components and optics are a bonus. In comparisonto SLR systems, there are a few drawbacks: generally less automation,higher price with some brands, fewer accessories and lenses (usually fromultra-wide to short telephoto) plus a view that is not quite as clearwith telephoto lenses, or as accurate in close-ups.Nonetheless, we are seeingmore and more rangefinder cameras on the market. Most of the benefitsmentioned earlier are appreciated when working with people, when capturingthe right gesture or the 'decisive moment' is important. Hence, it's nosurprise that rangefinders are the preferred cameras of many photojournalistsas well as travel photographers.