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Quality MF folder cameras?

I have some cash saved up for a D700 that I won’t be buying anytime soon and I was thinking of experimenting with medium format in the mean time. I’m looking for something that I can slide in my regular camera bag instead of two lenses, so the smaller the camera, the better. Should I consider folders?

I’ve been doing some reading and I get the impression that apart from an overpriced Fuji nobody has been designing or building MF folders since the 1960’s. And those apparently have several inherent issues (lens alignment, inaccurate focusing, film flatness) and obviously they’re getting pretty old… old lens designs, primitive lens coatings, mechanical wear & tear, etc. At this point I’m even wondering if any of them – including the 6x9 versions with rarer lenses – would produce noticeably better enlargements than my 10 megapixel dSLR with a good prime.

Budget, ease of use, and availability aren’t really issues. As long one shows up for sale every now and then. My main concerns are size and image quality.

Any suggestions?

1 Answer

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  • 1 decade ago
    Favorite Answer

    The Zeiss Ikons take pretty good pictures.

    I have an Agfa/Ansco Billy/Viking that does an amazing job. $10.

    I also have a Zeiss Super Ikonta C. A little pricey but worth it. Make sure you get it with one of the better lenses.

    http://www.cameraquest.com/zikontc.htm

    http://www.certo6.com/cam/ikonta.html

    Medium Format folders are very handy. They fold up small and store away easy. If money is not a huge problem then I would definitely stay with the Zeiss Ikon. Stopped down a bit they make wonderful pictures.

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