Wista Rangefinder

[Greg Liscio]

I have several questions on the Wista Rangefinder 4X5:
- Will the coupled rangefinder only work with certain Nikor Lenses?
- Is Nikon still making LF lenses? If not, how difficult are they to obtain?
- Are Wista accessories readily obtainable?

Sorry for all the questions, but I'm about to take the plunge and don't want to make too many mistakes.

[Oren Grad]

(1) The internal cams are cut for Nikkor-W lenses. You can reset the infinity stops to account for different flange-to-film differences across lens brands at a given focal length, but for accuracy across the focusing range with another brand you'll still have to get lucky and have the true (as opposed to marked) focal length be an exact match to the Nikkor.

(2) Nikon is no longer making LF lenses. However, the focal lengths supported by the Wista rangefinder - 135, 150, 180 - shouldn't be too hard to find. B&H still has new 135 and 150 Nikkor-W lenses in stock.

(3) Many Wista accessories should be readily obtainable - Bob Salomon is the best guide to what's available new, since he represents the current US importer.

[Asher Kelman]

While we are discussing this Wista Rangefinder, can anyone say how this is to use compared to a Linhoff, Razzle or Crown Graphic as a handheld RF camera?

Thanks for sharing,

Asher

[Bob Salomon]

While we are discussing this Wista Rangefinder, can anyone say how this is to use compared to a Linhoff, Razzle or Crown Graphic as a handheld RF camera?

Thanks for sharing,

Asher

In what way? They are rangefinder cameras. So they are fairly similar in operation. But there is a big difference in operation capabilities.

The Linhof accepts cams for 72 to 360mm lenses. Not just for 3 normal lenses. The Technika has much more bellows and movements. The Technika can handle lenses down to 35mm, etc.

The RF is a fantastic, versatile camera at less cost then a Technika. The Techmnika easily outperforms it but costs more.

[David A. Goldfarb]

Another way to think about it is--used Wista RFs are fairly uncommon, and a new Wista RF with a RF compatible lens costs more in general than a second-hand Tech IV, V or Master Tech with one cammed lens. The used Technika will give you more capabilities as a view camera than the Wista, plus the option of adding more cammed lenses in the future, if you decide you like shooting rangefinder-style.