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🟡 Kiev 4 Rangefinder Cameras Review (Kiev 2a, Kiev 4a, Kiev 4M) 

Matt Osborne
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Soviet Contax Rangefinder Kiev Cameras - Kiev 4 A, Kiev-4M, Kiev 2A Review + Kiev vs Leica M3
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Kiev 4 rangfinder camera review - affordable replicas of the classic Contax 2 camera. Kiev vs Leica "Better" rangefinder than a Leica M3. Video looks at the Kiev-4a, Kiev-4m (especially) + shows the Kiev-2a, Kiev-3a, Kiev-4AM, Kiev-5. Russian rangefinder cameras with Contax mount, often called Soviet Contax clone camera. Cameras have the same Contax rangefinder mount (CRF) and can use Contax mount Zeiss lenses and Contax mount Soviet lenses (Jupiter-8 and Helios-103 as common examples).
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26 авг 2024

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Комментарии : 199   
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
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@TheMOV13
@TheMOV13 День назад
My first camera, in 1983, purchased from an ad on the back of a magazine. I took some lovely pics with it but stupidly let it go for a tenner, in part exchange for me next camera. I remember using the rough exposure guide that they used to print on the Kodak film cannister boxes.
@dennisgreene7164
@dennisgreene7164 2 года назад
Great review. The Kievs are amazing cameras. I was astonished by the quality of images it takes. Great lenses - and btw my light meter is working great on a 42 year old example.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 2 года назад
Thanks Dennis! Yes they can take nice photos for sure.
@LeendertCordemans
@LeendertCordemans 2 года назад
Nice review. Well done. I've a Kiev 2 and works very well. It's a old model with a swing feet on it from 1955 and a jupiter 8 2/50mm.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 2 года назад
Thanks Leendert, yes great cameras for sure. I need to use mine again soon!
@johntruman6571
@johntruman6571 3 года назад
Thanks very much for this Matt. I've just purchased a Kiev 4A with a Jupiter 4M. It should arrive tomorrow (23rd Aug 2021) and I can't wait to begin using it.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Congrats John! Nice cameras, I need to dust mine off. I go through cycles using different cameras.
@TheGazmondo
@TheGazmondo 3 года назад
Some great reviewing Matt, in the past I’ve rather dismissed range finders and Russian range finders in particular, however this is so rich in info, that it’s changed my attitude considerably. I now have greater respect for my friend who has a collection of them. I quite like the idea of adding one to accompany my CLE.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Thank you Gary, I must admit I didn;t give them a second look over the last 10 years but the Leica iii cameras have given me a real appreciation for older RF cameras.
@MB-or8js
@MB-or8js 3 года назад
I like the design of the Se-based light meter: the flip-lid protects the Se cell from decaying - so the meter in your camera might be actually still quite good! I have a few cameras with Se meters, but they all but one are dead because they didn't have a lid on the cell. Keeping a camera with open Se cell within a dark bag/box is another good way for long-term storage. Nevertheless, Se decays over multiple decades with or without lid and darkness.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Hi Martin, thanks, great info on the meters. Yes mine doe smove so maybe I should test it though the camera is not 100% so I use the bodies without the meters (I prefer the smaller size).
@jlGenozzV
@jlGenozzV 2 года назад
My Contaflex IV light meter still work, and compared to my Minolta X-300 and Fuji X-T200 the Contaflex still gives a Ok measurement, thanks to this little door
@raybeaumont7670
@raybeaumont7670 3 года назад
I have a Kiev 4AM with Helios 103 53mm f1.8 only. I also have a Leica M2 with lenses from 35mm to 135mm (with specs). Both see regular use but the M2 sees more action simply because of the lens choice for more subjects. Thanks for your clear comparison and general info.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Thank you Ray! I think the M2 is a much more refined camera but I like the ability to use different lenses with the Kievs, and the price is great.
@Nigel-nar53
@Nigel-nar53 3 года назад
Nice one. I've got a couple of Zorki 4's sat in my cupboard but I've never tried to use them. They do look pretty though. 👍
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Thanks Nigel! I have a Zorki 4 too :) ..hven't used it yet with Lockdown dragging on for ever and ever. That review will come eventually!
@tomredd9025
@tomredd9025 3 года назад
Thanks Matt for another very perceptive camera review. You were right. I did really like the presentation. I had the same experience with the Kiev I have bought four of them (2 new and 2 used) and only one is working. The quality control was really terrible with light leaks and broken shutter straps. The one that is working came with a really slow shutter. The guy I bought from was Russian but was living in the U.S. I called him and he told me to take some WD 40 (a "do it all" oil solvent) and squirt it in a certain hole and dang if it didn't start working perfectly - I am not making this up. I have used it for years now, including hikes on remote islands in the middle of the Great Lakes. The selenium meter still works well. I think selenium meters get a bad rap unfairly. Heck you don't have to use a battery. You have to remember it is not a spot meter and will give you an average reading that if not pointed slightly down will be off. As you indicated, the rangefinder base distance is very large which make it very effective for the 135mm telephoto. The Jupiter 135mm is a very good Zeiss Sonnar clone and you won't be disappointed in its performance. While the camera finder doesn't have internal frame lines, a Soviet made turret finder was marketed that was based on the Zeiss turret finder. This is a very good and a very bright finder, with a range from 135mm to 28mm. Also, for the telephotos you are actually seeing the full sized image not a small rectangle in a larger frame. It also has the capacity for a rough but usable parallax correction. A final word on the Kiev. As you said, it is based on the Contax II and III cameras. While the shutter curtain is metal and never needs replacement, there are fabric straps that wear out and break. The repair is expensive and very few people know how to do it now a days. However, if it is working, the shutter run will be very even and will never ever cap (fade out) at high speeds. I have two Contax IIIa and a IIa. Of the three cameras with the newer shutter design, two cap (fade out) at 1/500 of a second and above. The lubrication after all is 65 years old and the newer design shutters simply do not run as smoothly as they did in 1955 but the older design if working will perform better for you. P.S. The 50mm f1.5 Sonnar is indeed one beautiful lens.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Thank you Tom!! Wow such much great information there to take in. I will refer back if I get issues. Love the WD40 tip. My Dad would love that. He’s from the era of oil everything! :) I’d read about the straps but was not confident enough to try to put into words so thanks. I should try my light meter so thanks for pointing down tip, makes sense..though I do prefer smaller bodies without meters. I’m a sucker for small cameras. That’s why I’m obsessed with the Barnack Leica. Thanks again!
@rafamorenoc
@rafamorenoc 2 года назад
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I got a 1963 No Name Kiev few weeks ago, as I investigated were produced in 1963-64 for export and came with Carl Zeiss lenses, some with f1.5 and some with f2, it seems it works ok but can't test with film yet :(
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 2 года назад
@@rafamorenoc congrats Rafa! Sounds like a good find.
@pietjekarbonkel2710
@pietjekarbonkel2710 3 года назад
The older the Kiev is the better . Until 1965 they are okay . But later ones suffer from less good to bad workmanship . I have a 1956 Kiev 2A that works very smooth and my Kiev 4A from 1960 and 1962 are also trusty camera's . A good Contax II with CLA is also a good idea . Many prewar Contax camera's have broken ribbons , this can be repaired and with a good CLA you have a very good camera . A old 1950's Kiev II with a CLA is allmost a Contax . Do you know the Kiev Survival Site ? Peter .
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Thanks Peter, good advice! I bought the 2a before releasing the video so I could get it before everyone else wanted it :) 1956. The RF patch is better in my 1976 4a but both seem OK currently. I have the clean Contax iiia as a backup that I need to test at some point. Yes agreed I wanted an older Kiev for the same reason you mention. My 1980s Kievs I bought were both very poor. I'll check the survival site, I may have seen without knowing.
@eugene8524
@eugene8524 3 года назад
yes, true, also some Kievs from 50s are literally Contax, they just engraved Kiev on Contax bodies
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
@@eugene8524 thanks! I read this was true especially for the late 1940s ones. If it keeps working I’m happy :)
@user-uv8ep1hb3u
@user-uv8ep1hb3u 4 месяца назад
Да ладно врать то. Более поздние "киевы" имеют лучший объектив, и более современную технологию изготовления деталей. К тому же они помоложе возрастом. Конечно всё зависит от того, как с ними обращались, и в каких условиях хранили.
@noudsmeets
@noudsmeets Месяц назад
​@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom after the 60's the quality goes down because the machines that they took from Germany got worn out and they did not have the knowledge for rapair. About the map: I thought Contax camera's were made in Dresden and not in Jena. Thats were the zeiss lenses were made and the Americans arrived there before the sovjets so they could take everything important to Oberkochen to start a new Carl Zeiss factory
@maxmonat
@maxmonat 3 года назад
I got the Jupiter-8, 11 and 12 for a real bargain in a local auction. I can't wait to receive the Kiev 4 i have ordered.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Congrats!! I hope you get a working Kiev, if not don't give up, buy another.. that's what I did :)
@LucyS565
@LucyS565 3 года назад
You're right.....the Sonnar 50mm 1.5 is super sexy! A beautiful lens! I could watch that for hours! The Kiev 4A looks like a very well made rangefinder camera. Thanks Matt for this excellent presentation....very interesting!
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Thanks Lucy! :) The rear of the Sonnar is even more sexy.. next time! ;)
@thewildgoose7467
@thewildgoose7467 3 года назад
Great review Matt, and you're right about one thing.. I recently bought a Kiev 4m. I was testing it to see if it worked at different shutter speeds and after firing it four or five times the metal shutter decided it had enough and collapsed in a heap! I only paid around €60 for it, and after contacting the seller he offered to refund half the price. So now I have a pretty paperweight and a nice leather case and 53mm f1.8 lens should I ever decide to buy another Kiev. Put it this way, I wouldn't recommend bring a Kiev on a 'once in a lifetime' photo shoot.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Sorry to hear! Yes my 4AM x2 just needed me to look at them funny and they self destructed haha. Luckily I was wise to this so sent them straight back. Agreed don't carry as your own camera for an important shoot but worth trying to find an older one that works. (Earlier date the better).
@al89085
@al89085 2 года назад
Ремонт kiev4 в росси стоит 70$ + пересылка
@nopeoplecorp
@nopeoplecorp 11 месяцев назад
Just bought a Kiev 4 - can't wait to receive it, having watched this video. Also bought a FED 4, so I can compare the two and in case one doesn't work - good advice from you!
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 11 месяцев назад
Thank you and congrats! Hope it works well for you. Fun cameras!
@nopeoplecorp
@nopeoplecorp 11 месяцев назад
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Today I may embark on medium format, if I'm lucky. I have not developed the film yet, as the FP4 Plus is still only a few shots taken, but the FED 4 is in fantastic condition and really is a beautiful thing to hold and behold. A £40 entry into film photography that I doubt can be beaten.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 11 месяцев назад
@@nopeoplecorp great! And the best thing is modern levees are being made for it 👏🏻👏🏻
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 11 месяцев назад
@@nopeoplecorp great! And the best thing is modern levees are being made for it 👏🏻👏🏻
@lgude
@lgude 8 месяцев назад
Bought a 75 4A from Japan today which looks like it is in nice shape and claimed working.. We will see when it gets here. I’ve shot Leica lll and M series and this looks like a great new film experience. Copying the Contax is where Nikon got a start and they evolved into the Nikon F which became the queen of SLRs. I did most my pro work with a 65 so it will be a nice trip back into the origins of the Nikon F shooting this camera if it works.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 8 месяцев назад
Great stuff! I used a Nikon F recently. I'll try to put a video together if I got some nice images! (Yes I have a Nikon S2 too, great camera. (The Kiev is easier to focus, I was using it in a recent video).
@harrisuvisalmi1777
@harrisuvisalmi1777 3 года назад
I have a 1952 Kiev 3 with a matching Jupiter-8 lens. I've shot several rolls with it. The light meter is knackered and unfortunately I broke the self timer but otherwise it still functions okay.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Thanks Harri! A 1950s one should be one of the 'good ones' so i'd hang onto it :)
@ulfjonsson2122
@ulfjonsson2122 Год назад
Great video, I had a Kiev II ( got stolen when sent for restoration), loved it but now looking for a cloth shutter like Nikon S
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Год назад
Sorry to hear Ulf, that’s rubbish. Yes the Nikon S are nicely made. See that video.
@oscarpantalone2964
@oscarpantalone2964 5 месяцев назад
I have a Contax IIIa wich is a very slow camera to use but with a very precise focusing system, the rangefinder patch is quite dark, the Leica M3's is much brighter, the Sonnar 5 cm 1.5 is a great lens, I hope a try a Jupiter 8 someday. Anyway I would go to an 39 screw system today, it's much more reliable (or an M mount with an adapter)😮
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 5 месяцев назад
Thanks Oscar, nice. Yes if you saw my most accurate rangefinder cameras video the Kiev 4/early Contax are the best due to the long RF base length, M3 next. Yes M3 is more refined and nicer to use. LTM also.
@henricvs
@henricvs 3 года назад
I've had my 4am for years. The lenses are marvelous. Unfortunately, it has broken for the last time. It still sort of works, but the curtains do not cock evenly. It is slightly slanted and hangs sometimes. I am looking for the Bessa version of this mount, thanks to you for letting me know they exist!
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Thanks Henry, sorry to hear your 4am died. Yes I've seen the same issue. I will message you via Patreon.
@1peterq
@1peterq 2 года назад
All curtains relaited problem can be easily fixed with CLA. These cameras got NOTHING to wear off or broke except for lubrication (old grease becomes solid) and shutter stripes (which are replaceble even easily than on Barnack type shutters). There are only 2 problems that can require a lot of work - rangefinder glasses deglueing (takes a lot of time to clean and adjust) and rust in shutter (usually needs a "donor" camera) - that's what you should avoid and carefully check on buing - viewfinder from front view should have no fungus or "leak", also camera should have no rust at any place you can look into.
@MB-or8js
@MB-or8js 3 года назад
Second vote for the M3 ;)! Leica built the best rangefinder with 0.91x magnification in this camera only. It never happened before or afterwards again! Of course the dream Leica M film camera for me would be a M3 with internal meter which was never made.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Thanks, high 5! Get a small modern lightmeter for the cold shoe. You might see that here in the future ;)
@MB-or8js
@MB-or8js 3 года назад
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Thanks, but I am using for quite some time now a small external Gossen Digisix 2 meter which I really like.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
@@MB-or8js ah great, no problem!
@cameraprepper7938
@cameraprepper7938 2 года назад
Best Leica M are the M2 because it has a frame for 35mm ;)
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 2 года назад
Best for 35mm yes :)
@mvonwalter6927
@mvonwalter6927 3 года назад
Voigtlander recently made a run of lenses in both Contax RF/Nikon S mount.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Thank you, yes I have one of them, the SC 28mm f2.5 - when they released the S and C Bessas
@nickm8134
@nickm8134 Год назад
Really enjoyed the video Matt! Probably had bad luck but the two Kiev's I had - both failed with shutter issues after a few weeks - impossible (or not cost effective) to repair. In the end I went for a Contax iia which was not that expensive and has been 100% reliable. The Contax 1949 iia (and iiia with meter) models were wonderful cameras, but the Leica M3 came along 5 years later and blew them out of the water! Contax gave up on rangefinders after that, sadly - one can only wonder what might have been. I have also had very mixed experiences with Russian RF glass - it might just be cheaper in the long run to go for genuine Zeiss lenses - but YMMV or course. A bit off-topic - but if keeping costs down is the goal, I would suggest looking at the Canon M39 rangefinders, they are amazingly cheap , and are really well built and have some superb lenses - and compatible with other M39 lenses. Then again, if you really want the Sonnars :)
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Год назад
Thanks! Yes Kiev are hit and miss. I had my share of bad copies. I have a Contax too but I prefer the Kiev RF so don't use it. I have Canon RF (and Nikon RF) videos, see those!
@TLOTTrike
@TLOTTrike 2 года назад
I have a Kiev 4a it worked for a bit but then the wind on mechanism stop working. I took it to a vintage camera and camera repair shop who said after a week it couldn’t be repaired so could I pick it up and they wouldn’t charge me. Weird thing was when I got it home I could see either they cleaned one the components that wound on the film or they had replaced it and it works! I really enjoy using it and it’s a comfortable size to spend the day with. I would like to get a wider lens so thanks for your advice about the Contad lens and clip on finder
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 2 года назад
Great result! I remeber taking a Bessa to a shop to repair years ago, they quoted a silly price so I said no and whe they gave it back they kept a piece from inside so I couldn't fix it myself (not that I could anyway). Years later a great repair guy told me and made a piece to fix it. Yes I use the Canon 35mm finder with mine. I need to use it more!
@danielfulop
@danielfulop Год назад
I just bought a Kiev 4 because of your video :P
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Год назад
Congrats Daniel! At least they are cheaper than Leica! :) Hope you got a nice copy. I just got a new lens for mine. Future video to come!
@mathewrupp8568
@mathewrupp8568 3 года назад
I like my Kiev accept for one thing the focus locking at infinity. I got lucky on the three Russian lenses I purchased all work well.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Thanks Mathew, good to hear you found some nice lenses. They tend to be more reliable than the bodies :)
@jmtubbs1639
@jmtubbs1639 3 года назад
Zeiss recommended using the middle finger to focus with, so you would not obstruct the finder, but it is hard on the fingers unless everything is working very smoothly.
@jmtubbs1639
@jmtubbs1639 3 года назад
..as well, at least I think they did
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Thanks JM!
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
I normally forget until I realise I can’t see the RF patch! :)
@jonlouis2582
@jonlouis2582 3 года назад
I went on a bender and bought a bunch of these years ago. One had a severe light leak that ruined a very important film, but the rest are fine. The Helios lens is one of the best I have ever tested, outperforming my Zeiss Sonnar by a wide margin. I like the cameras but don’t love them. Seeing as they cost about the same as a lens hood for a Leitz lens, why not try one?
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Haha thanks Jon! yes the Helios can be a strong performer, mine doesn't beat the others but has nice rendering. I will share a video when I get chance. price - exactly! Too good to say no :)
@nolansnook1268
@nolansnook1268 3 года назад
Another amazing review Matt. And for me a first time that I actually own the reviewed cameras ... a Kiev 4A and 4M that I have never shot. I think it is time I give them a shot. I bought them from a Ukraine dealer that claimed he had fully service them, although I was after the lenses at the time. What WILL you come up with next? Amazing .....
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Thanks Nolan! :) Happy to inspire you to dust off your Kievs! :)
@NPJensen
@NPJensen 3 года назад
I'm currently using a Contax IIIa and the 50mm f 1.4 lens with the sexy aperture blades for the first time. No idea if the rangefinder is aligned correctly until I get the film developed, and that will unfortunately be a while since I need to develop it myself - something I have never done before. The one thing I will say is, that you need to set your aperture before focusing. If you do need to change the aperture for some reason, you need to refocus afterwards - in fact with this focusing system, you need to refocus over and over again as it is so easy to push out of focus with even the slightest touch, when it isn't locked at infinity.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Thanks, interesting yes I guess I just do my thing without thinking, set aperture focus take photo. See the video I posted on blurry photos re alignment. You should be able to see if aligned without film (though better to best after with film too).
@salerusin
@salerusin 5 месяцев назад
I have a Kiev 4a bought by my father and it still works great after 45 years. There is another copy who is interested in buying let me write a comment
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 5 месяцев назад
Thanks, yes great cameras!
@kasimasi6747
@kasimasi6747 Месяц назад
I learned photography as a child on the KIEV4a
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Месяц назад
Great camera!
@bryanhunt1148
@bryanhunt1148 Год назад
I have a Kiev 4 and 4A, both with Jupiter 8 lenses. Both perform very well although with the K4, I have to press the shutter again to advance the film and cock the shutter.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Год назад
Thanks Bryan, I like these cameras too
@coloring_again
@coloring_again 7 месяцев назад
I did what you said about changing shutter speed after advancing film and it immediately broke hahaha! Was going to get it CLAd anyway
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 7 месяцев назад
Sorry to hear. Kiev are great when they work. Do read up on the topic so not to damage it once CLA’d.
@ChrisTDownTheRabbitHole
@ChrisTDownTheRabbitHole Год назад
I very much enjoy both my late 50s Kiev 4a and Contax ii. They are great overall and i don't mind the "Contax grip" thing. The only donwside for me, is that are bigger than my Leica III and Zorki cameras :)
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Год назад
Thanks, yes I love my Kiev cameras, yes bigger than Leica iii but if you fit a lightweight lens and use a body without the "foot" or meter the weight is pretty good. I'll have another video to come with a new lens so stay tuned (for Contax mount)
@georgeosier5459
@georgeosier5459 17 часов назад
the Kiev 2 has actually REAL Zeiss parts and was assembled in Kiev .... so parts ran out thus the quirky Russian rangefinder camera :)
@quite1enough
@quite1enough 3 года назад
Found Kiev-4a in my city for $27 (Saint Petersburg, Russia). Sadly, while you can find tons of soviet cameras and lenses in Russia, the reliability of those is an issue, and on second hand ads , for example for Kiev-4a, broken, stuttered shutter described as a "known issue". So, lots of options, but it's a lottery in a way. Some people say that export models are better (it is believed that USSR did export versions of its products sometimes drastically better and more reliable than for inner market), dunno how export models was specified for sure, as far as I know it's not only the Latin letters. And I guess no parallax correction.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Thank you John, interesting regarding exports. Maybe the ones marked ‘made in ....’ etc but I’ve not read that this was for export only. Yes they are a lottery for sure.
@aaa00705
@aaa00705 3 года назад
Speaking about the Nikon S2, let's do its review one day. It was the main competitor towards the M3 and the very first Japanese camera that accepted by westerners.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Thanks. I did the review last year, please see my youtube playlists. It’s not as good as a Leica M3 for sure but it’s still nicely made
@aaa00705
@aaa00705 3 года назад
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Found it. Thanks for the review!
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
@@aaa00705 no problem, thanks for watching! :)
@bruceemberley9277
@bruceemberley9277 3 года назад
How was the size of the viewfinders on these?
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
@@bruceemberley9277 hi Bruce, I play around with so many cameras I can’t really remember. Mid size I think, bigger than Leica iii and not as bright as Bessa etc
@GeorgeStar
@GeorgeStar 2 года назад
The Kiev 4AM (black dial) has a much better shutter speed dial. The speeds are easier to see & adjust. Also the shutter is amazingly quiet! A comparison of the Soviet lenses and the Zeiss lenses would be interesting esp the 50mm f1.5.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 2 года назад
Thanks for the info. I showed some Soviet CRF lenses vs Zeiss 50 1.5 in a recent 50mm comparison video.
@christosmilonas7986
@christosmilonas7986 Год назад
My experience is that 1/5 have defect curtains and they are not repairable. The Leicas are more reliable. If the Contax or Keiev cameras work I do agree they are amazing!
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Год назад
Thanks Christos, good info and yes that sounds about correct from the dead Kievs i've had!
@Zetaphotography
@Zetaphotography 2 года назад
Neber considered this but I carelessly bought a Sonnar 50 F2 copy/fake/clone which ever words to use so now I need a camera. Needed to know the difference between all of them so I know which to buy. I have a different Russian called Fed 3 with Industar 61 LD so looking forward to this
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 2 года назад
These are different to the FED and Zorki that are screw mount. From watching this video look at the date as shown and when buying try to buy an older one.
@PabloCoronel70
@PabloCoronel70 2 года назад
Cool review Just one thing the teleobjectived (85 and 135mm) use the external mount as well
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 2 года назад
Ah yes thanks Pablo! I’m Not sure what I said in the video but I know the 135mm does as I’ve looked at those before too :)
@PabloCoronel70
@PabloCoronel70 2 года назад
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I just got one to complement a bunch of old Zeiss lenses that my mom found while cleaning my grandma's estate. Unfortunately my grandfather's pre-war Contax is lost. The mount is complex (compared to modern cammeras) but the camera is fun to use.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 2 года назад
@@PabloCoronel70 Congrats Pablo! Yes fun to use for sure :) Enjoy!
@ovash1
@ovash1 Год назад
Great video, thanks.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Год назад
Thanks Henry!
@eugenes9620
@eugenes9620 Год назад
Best Kiev cameras made before end of 60 s
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Год назад
Thanks yes, earlier the better! (The late ones were pretty terrible from my experience).
@eugenes9620
@eugenes9620 Год назад
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thanks for you great videos!
@jeromearnould9940
@jeromearnould9940 3 года назад
Look like a great camera .. but I'll stick with my Leica's ... and +1 for the M3 on which I added a voigtlander VC meter II
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Thanks Jerome! :) Nice setup, I looked at those in the past :)
@grahamrichards8531
@grahamrichards8531 Год назад
THE GRIP - Kiev-4M - I use the thumb underneath grip which I quickly became comfortable with.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Год назад
Thanks Graham, yes! I've used Leica type cameras for so long it was quite alien to me haha "oh I can't see the RF patch, again!"
@photobobo
@photobobo Год назад
You failed to mention that the Contax/Kiev have metal shutters, unlike the cloth shutter in the Leica. No burning holes through the shutter curtains with the Contax/Kiev. I have replaced (I mean personally) 3 shutter curtains on my Leica cameras but none on my Contax II.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Год назад
Ah yes great point! Sorry about that. I burnt my M3 curtain (see that vid)
@neilpiper9889
@neilpiper9889 3 года назад
I have a Kiev 4a with a 50mm f2 Jupiter 8m lens. I hate the focusing wheel. M2 is the only Leica I have used professionally and loved it. I have a Dual Leica lens camera on my Huawei p10 plus. Thumbs up. I love my Zorki 4k rangefinder with a Jupiter 8 50mm f2 lens best. It has an eyesight adjustment lever on the viewfinder +++
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Thanks Neil! I tend not to use the wheel either.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Thanks yes I have a Zorki 4 still to review. The Leica iii cameras have the same lever. That’s why I love them :)
@vladnickul
@vladnickul Год назад
One could find soviet cameras in ex soviet/soviet friendly countries, for much less. I sugest not paying scalpers, and use local sites. good luck!
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Год назад
Great tip thanks. I bought my FED2 in Ukraine while I was there doing shoots.
@johnagapito5326
@johnagapito5326 3 года назад
Great video, but wouldn't a fairer comparison be a Leica M3 vs Contax IIA?. I have used a Kiev 4 and now have a Contax IIA and the Contax is in a different league to the Kiev in terms of build quality and joy of use. I'm sure the M3 is the superior camera over-all, but a IIA with a 1.5 Sonnar or an early Jupiter 3 is a beautiful thing...
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Thanks John! Because the Kiev is based on the early Contax I classed them as one. I know the iia and iiia I have was then improved but they are still much more similar to each other than a Leica. I compared the Kiev mainly as it has a more magnified VF than the M3, that was dropped for the iia and iiia. My iiia finder is not as good as the Kiev. Bare in mind there is sample variation with old cameras. Once I do the Contax vid I’m sure I’ll compare it to Leica, I just need to use it first as lockdown continues!
@alexanderzabilotsky5998
@alexanderzabilotsky5998 Год назад
I once had a Kiev / Contax specialist technician. I really enjoyed watching him work and I can say that there is not much difference between iia, Kyiv 3 and early Kyiv 4. The same problems with processing details, the same settings and malfunctions. The real difference in quality exists between early and late cameras. After 1975, the quality of Soviet products declined greatly. Why ? Because the Soviet worker had nothing to fear. There was no unemployment, there were no homeless people, people were not fired from work, medicine and education were free, housing was free or on an interest-free loan from the government .... ..
@julianmerkes4255
@julianmerkes4255 3 года назад
Hi Matt, I'm used to my Nikon F3 and just bought a Voigtländer Perkeo II and a Kiev 4A (I hope it works as good as the description said) to try out a rangefinder and a 6x6 camera. I hope these are good cameras to begin and try out. As said before I usually shoot with my F3 or FE and I'm pretty happy with the light metering of it. As this won't be possible with my new cameras I would like to know a good method + light meter i could use? Maybe you could make a video about the light meters you use and what to look out for? Also something in the lower price segment is highly appreciated :) Thanks for sharing your knowledge!
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Congrats Julian, you will find these new cameras are slow to use compared to the FE and you will really appreciate the speed and ease of use of the FE after, I find! :) But, these cameras render differently and are fun to use, and 6x6 gives you so much more detail, you will love the negatives for sure! I use a Sekonic L-308 mostly. Maybe I will do a video on this once the channel is a bit bigger. Thanks for asking.
@StavrosMoshidis
@StavrosMoshidis 3 года назад
I was lucky to find a working Kiev 4... nice camera but my middle finger goes always in front of rangefinder window and overall build quality is far from leica. The lens is really nice though... I'd like to see a test with the hellios 53/1.8 vs the jupiter 8.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Thanks Stavros! The testing has already begun so a can help with your wish :) Stay tuned! It will come.
@PictureSizeDoesMatter
@PictureSizeDoesMatter 5 месяцев назад
Hi, what kind of spools problems exist? Mine, recently purchased on eBay, just falls out when the back is open.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 5 месяцев назад
Yes that's a spool that was likely added after so not a perfect fit. Normally they stay in. You can likely find an original spool on eBay if it bothers you. I have both types so I can recognise your point.
@mrdasboot45
@mrdasboot45 3 года назад
I am sorry but I have to correct you on the contax/Kiev having the longest base length of any 35mm interchangeable rangefinder. The Kodak Ektar has a base length of 104mm and a magnification of 1.6x (I using mike eckman’s site for info). But the Kiev is probably a much more practical and cheaper option (just not as cool as the Kodak) 😁
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Thanks Menno! But is it a interchangeable lens camera? (I covered myself with that statement!) The Ektra is a seriously cool looking cameras though, i;ve not seen before so thanks! :)
@mrdasboot45
@mrdasboot45 3 года назад
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Yes they made six lenses for the camera , not only that it was the first interchangeable system with coated lenses. The viewfinder is interesting that it has a dial to change it setting depending on the focal length of the lens, it even has a diopter (why doesn’t Leica have that). I want one but a 1000 euros is a bit dear.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
@@mrdasboot45 Thanks for confirming, I saw it on Mike's website, such a cool camera! :) Thanks for correcting me, i'm always learning too!
@williambolton5679
@williambolton5679 3 года назад
Hello. I just bought a Kiev 3 with lens, both from 1956 and described as excellent, on eBay. The lens is the Jupiter 8 with a red P. I paid probably a premium price, $165, with shipping, but I don't like to pinch pennies when it comes to vintage gear. I hope to be able to use the lens on my Sony e mount cameras also, but I can't seem to locate a Contax RF to Sony e adapter. Do you know of one, and hopefully one that won't cost more than the camera? I'd also be interested in how the Jupiter compares to the Helios fifty that came on later cameras. Do you have experience of both? This was a very interesting video, and I subscribed. Ta.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Hi William thanks! Congrats on your Kiev3. Hopefully you got a nice one. See my adapter video, I use Contax-Leica M adapters so i'm sure you can get Sony E version. If you buy a Leica one that you adapt to Sony you can use one that is non-RF coupled and those are cheaper. I use a Helios 44 (see video) Great lens! Jupiter 3 is also nice and better suited to RF cameras.
@S7RING3R
@S7RING3R 11 месяцев назад
What is it like shooting 35mm lenses on these cameras?
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 11 месяцев назад
Fine but you'll need a 35mm finder
@user-yh7xm1tl3x
@user-yh7xm1tl3x 6 месяцев назад
How do you adjust the ISO?
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 6 месяцев назад
Use different film
@michaelc4917
@michaelc4917 3 года назад
Matt, I just purchased a Kiev 4a after watching your video and I got the Zesis sonnar 50mm lenses. Do you have problems with light leaks where the backplate connects to the camera with the Kiev? The catch doesn't go too far into the camera body, it's so short and when the backplate is locked, it still feel filmsy where I feel a bit of a play. The Nikon F connects the same way but feel way more solid.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Hi Michael, congrats! Yes the F is better built for sure. I’ve not seen that issue with any of mine but anything is possible with these cameras. I get same feeling with 6x6 Kiev but it works. You will see that in a video to come. :)
@matsudarx8
@matsudarx8 2 года назад
Are there any framelines in the kiev 4am/4a viewfinder? How do they look like? Can't seem to find them on the internet.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 2 года назад
Hi, no they are like old a Leica iii - no framelines in my Kievs and the window gives 50mm view only
@christopherward5065
@christopherward5065 2 года назад
I have one and it is largely unused. I found it hard to operate intuitively. I need an accessory finder, the eyepiece is so small and has a very small acceptance angle it feels like peering through a keyhole. Film loading is fiddly. Shutter markings are odd. I had the metered one briefly, it came with a conversion card in Cyrillic to transfer meter readings onto the camera. I have to remove it from my eye to wind on. I should try again. I should be less hung up on shutter speeds and just adjust settings periodically according to need in terms of fractions of stops on the shutter speed or fractions of stops on the lens. The camera needs time before I can get out of my way and work intuitively. I think the shutter is made of wood strips rather than metal. The lenses look great. The M3 is easier with more aids and can be kept at eye level.I should get Accessory finder for 35mm mine came with a 35mm lens and there are no bright line markings for 35mm framing. I guess I need to spend more time with rangefinders they seem more niche in their shooting style and process.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 2 года назад
Thanks Christopher. Yes it all depends on what camera(s) you're used to I guess. I will be awkward vs Leica M3 but probably easier than Leica III in most of the areas you mention. If you can get over those quirks they can take amazing images and at a fraction of the price of a Leica M. (Pair with a Sonnar 50mm f1.5, shoot at f2 and you can get truely stunning shots, hard to tell from Leica photos).
@christopherward5065
@christopherward5065 2 года назад
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom you’re right. I love the lenses. I liked your description of the critical focus you could achieve with the Kiev and I want that plasticity in the very tonal negatives it can produce. I got very used to Pentaxes and the ease of viewing the subject through the lens I still use Pentax lenses and bodies. My M3 needs a 50mm lens rather than the 35mm lens it has now to let me use it more and better. Great to see how you are making great images as a payoff for the odd ergonomics. Show us more of your images!
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 2 года назад
@@christopherward5065 thanks! see my Flickr or blog for more photos! MrLeica.com
@legionchef
@legionchef 2 года назад
Hi Matt, what would you rather use: a Jupiter 8M or a Helios 103?
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 2 года назад
Hmm tricky.. see the big 50mm shoot out video for results from both (from memory). Jupiter just works, Helios has added crazy bokeh but is still sharp.
@eoj8603
@eoj8603 2 года назад
Out of interest, how do you do your light meter reading ? I'm trying to work out do I get an 1950/1960 model or one from the late 1970/1980. Thanks for the review.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 2 года назад
Hi I use handheld meters and or meter from digital if using both with models (see meters video).
@eoj8603
@eoj8603 2 года назад
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thanks
@barrytcook1
@barrytcook1 2 года назад
or you can use your 2nd finger for the focussing wheel .....
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 2 года назад
Thanks Barry, I was using a Kiev 4a in Poland last week so new images to follow.
@RaymondCheng97
@RaymondCheng97 3 года назад
kiev viewfinder window seems to be v small on the rear end. Perhaps not practical for eyeglasses wearer?
@pietjekarbonkel2710
@pietjekarbonkel2710 3 года назад
I have made from a aluminium tube and a cheap reading glass a diopter lens for my Kiev . The turned off aluminium 1 cm short tube is glued with nail polish over the lens ring at the back of the Kiev . The reading glasses are made from optical plastic and can easy made to the right size to fit in the aluminium tube . You need mini drill and mini tools . If you need a plus 1,5 glasses for the long distance you need a plus 3 plastic reading glass for your Kiev Contax . The plastic reading glasses cost only 1 Euro . Succes ! Peter .
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Hi Raymond, yes someone commented via Facebook and said not good with glasses.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
@@pietjekarbonkel2710 very smart Peter!! My skills don't stretch that far!
@pocketstring3634
@pocketstring3634 3 года назад
What do you use for lens cap replacements?
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Cheap eBay caps on most my lenses. I take Leica caps off do dont lose them :)
@3flyte_3flyte
@3flyte_3flyte Год назад
Hi Matt; is there a 28mm lens that will work on the Kiev 4 & Contax?
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Год назад
Yes Skopar 28mm f3.5 - I have it
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Год назад
@@marktupper2375 yes I know it! I have the Orion-15 version (see video)
@souldigital8148
@souldigital8148 3 года назад
How do the Kiev cameras compares to the Canon7 or Canon P? Thanks
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Both are heavy and square. Kiev are cheaper, Canon give you access to many more lenses. See my Canon video.
@souldigital8148
@souldigital8148 3 года назад
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thanks for the reply, will take a look.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
@@souldigital8148 Thanks, no problem
@y2ktube
@y2ktube Год назад
The Canon P is FAR BETTER than EVERY Russian made unit ! The Contax II or Contax III (And the Russian Clones) are a Pre-War design with a major fatal flaw. The shutter curtain ribbons DRAG as the camera is wound then fired. This was corrected in the Contax IIa And IIIa Post War cameras (They used a sturdy thread with a redirected path; most everything was changed from the previous 'troubled' model line).
@flowermaze___
@flowermaze___ Год назад
Hm so if you had to choose between the Kiev and Canon 7?
@jlwilliams
@jlwilliams 3 года назад
You need to get over the idea that metal content is the same as build quality... a Bessa may have lighter-weight components, but it's actually constructed to a much higher standard of quality and precision than the sloppily-assembled lumps of pot metal that the Soviets often turned out, especially in the later years.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Thanks good point. Yes the later Kiev's I bought were both returned. The R2C / R3A / R4M I have are metal but feel more fragile still. The Kiev feels brick like and the Leica M2/M3 feels refined. I do like the plastic early Bessa as a lightweight solution so I select the tool for my task.
@eugene8524
@eugene8524 3 года назад
Earliest versions of Kiev (before 1964) are great
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
@@eugene8524 thanks! I just bought the 1956 Kiev 2a but it looks almost identical to my 1976 Kiev 4a except the self timer.
@1peterq
@1peterq 2 года назад
These cameras are build like a tank - no plastic, no rubber curtains, only metal, steel, natural leather and a 2 easily replaceble curtain straps. These cameras got NOTHING to wear off or broke except for lubrication (old grease becomes solid) and shutter straps (which are replaceble even easily than on Barnack type shutters). There are only 2 problems that can require a lot of work - rangefinder glasses deglueing (takes a lot of time to clean and adjust) and rust in shutter (usually needs a "donor" camera) - that's what you should avoid and carefully check on buing - viewfinder from front view should have no fungus or "leak", also camera should have no rust at any place you can look into. And I am strongly recommend to avoid "improved" Kiev-4M and Kiev-4AM which has reduced quality of parts and assembly. Better find any model made before 1966 - these cameras got almost the same quality as original Contax and have no production cost reducing "improvments".
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 2 года назад
Thanks Peter! You sound like you know your Soviet cameras! Yes the 4AM cameras seem terrible, those I touched. I need to get out and use mine. If you saw my recent 35mm and 50mm videos I have some nice lenses for them too so no excuse. My oldest is the Kiev 2a and what you say agrees with my reading too. (I have a Contax but prefer the Kiev RF!)
@1peterq
@1peterq 2 года назад
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I live in Ukraine so we got a LOT of used Kiev rangefinders on second hand market. I have Kiev 2 and 3A (both manufactured 1956) and 4AM (1981). Difference in quality between my 2 and 4AM is dramatical. Despite the fact that it is much easy to find 100% working 4AM/4M (mostly because they are 20-30 years younger) than 2/3/2A/3A. But it is much wiser to pick 2/3/2A/3A made till mid of 1960-th without fungus or rust and give it for CLA with shutter straps replace (nobody should expect for high load cloth straps to be OK after 60-70(!) years). So I should mention about 2 advantages of Kiev rangefinders over Contax models - Kiev's were made in a HUGE amounts (more than a MILLION bodies) so they are MUCH easy to find and to afford. Also Kiev's got a much thicker chrome layer - it is common for Contax RF to have yellow spots where outer chrome finish was weared off but it's almost impossible to find Kiev with it. Used Kiev's really looks better!
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 2 года назад
@@1peterq thanks for the information! I really like Ukraine..I’ve been perhaps 15+ times to Uzhgorod (see MrLeica.com and write up for the model trips - on model tab)
@jakekaywell5972
@jakekaywell5972 Год назад
@@1peterq Interesting information, thank you. How would you rate the FED series of rangefinders (derived from the Leica II I believe) vs. the Kiev series? I think it would be a fair comparison, since both use well-respected pre-war German designs and were also made in the Ukrainian SSR.
@1peterq
@1peterq Год назад
@@jakekaywell5972 FED had a much wider series of rangefinders than Arsenal (Kiev). Kiev uses almost the same german design from 1947 till 1987 (with a small "improvements" and simplifications), but FED had Leica design only in FED 1. All next models have all original design though RFs with M39 have Barnack shutter. So if You are interesting in a history of photocameras FED should be very interesting. But if You are interesting in shooting - Kiev is made better.
@cameraprepper7938
@cameraprepper7938 2 года назад
To be honest to the Contax II/Kiev it should have been compared to a Leica from late 1930´s and then the Contax II was superior to Leica at that time !
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 2 года назад
I have early Leica from that period, I still much prefer Leicas though I’m sure the Contax offers more features, (still haven’t used my Contax as VF better in most other cameras I have include Kiev
@cameraprepper7938
@cameraprepper7938 2 года назад
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Professional photographers in the 1930´s preferred the Contax and praised it very highly :) You did mention how important the focusing are, the Contax was much better to focus back in the 1930´s :)
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 2 года назад
@@cameraprepper7938 sorry when I say VF I really mean RF. If the RF is not good I’m not interested. Kiev RF patch is better and Leica iii is easier to use. (I’m only pro Leica because they work for me, otherwise I’d be long gone)
@manchesterstreetphotos5126
@manchesterstreetphotos5126 2 года назад
If it's all the same to you I will not be baring with you but I am quite prepared to bear with you :-))
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 2 года назад
Thanks..sorry I’m learning English as well as how to try to make videos. Many thanks
@cameraprepper7938
@cameraprepper7938 2 года назад
I have heard you should not get a Kiev Camera from 1980 and later, too bad quality.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 2 года назад
Yes I bought a few lemons from that period and they were all returned. Earlier dated the better!
@tonyb2760
@tonyb2760 3 года назад
I you want a working Russian range finder, the I would suggest "OK Vintage Cameras". You can Google that name. Stay away from the junk being sold on ebay, especially from the seller known as "Sale From Dollar" Complete scam artist.
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom 3 года назад
Thanks Tony, noted!
@joellandau6649
@joellandau6649 Год назад
Hi, there! Thanks for the very informative review. I recently purchased a Kiev 4M from a seller in Kiev, and found a gorgeous camera in the box. However, due to my ignorance in handling the camera, it seems I have inadvertently locked the focus ring and/or infinity lock (possible I took the lens off w/o setting the lens to infinity) and can no longer focus the camera as the focus knob will not move, and the lock button is locked down. I have the Helios 108 lens (which does not seem to have a focus ring on-lens) on this camera. Do you have any suggestion on how to unlock the focus ring? I’d love to give this camera a new life and have never owned a rangefinder camera before. I now have a gorgeous 59g paperweight, but I’m guessing there is a way to undo whatever stupid thing I have done to lock it up ;) Add to that the the translated manual (butkus.org) has plenty of information, but often refers to parts on the schematic that aren’t shown in the manual - it’s quite a mess, really) so I’m finding this camera to be very difficult to use. If you know of a better source for a manual, it would be greatly appreciated. Thanks if you can help, but otherwise thanks for the very educational videos I’ve seen you produce. Very high quality and informative!
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Год назад
Thanks and sorry to hear your news. Taking the lens off will nt cause the problem. These cameras are simple and mechanical so all I can suggest is keep trying to wiggle things to get it free. Some old cameras do just lock up and need a CLA if you can find someone willing to service it but then it would be cheaper to buy a second copy.
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