🟡 20 CAMERAS I'll NEVER Sell

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

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[@Mamo878]

Um, I'm pretty sure there were some other very cheeky reasons for that popular Flickr photo other than that 45mm F2 Rokkor lens!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes very true! It was just an example I guess that the camera really don't matter, it's what's in the photo that makes it. Minolta photo of this girl will always beat my M6/Hassy/RZ67/4x5 ..etc photo of a tree!) :)

[@mgscheue]

I was admiring the beautiful bokeh! Did I miss something? I'll have to re-watch.

[@Koji-888]

I approve this method of grading on a curve. ツ

[@nicokremers7150]

My choice was the Olympus OM1. The film camera! What a beautiful sound it makes. Don’t use it any more, but I still use the Olympus OM Zuiko lenses.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! This is a popular choice. I'll do a part 2 and give it some love!

[@orsoncart9441]

One of the best film cameras ever made.

[@CompleteMisc]

I came here to say the same. It was my first camera when I was 12 years old. Learned photography on it. I still have it and had it reconditioned. Just a light, simple camera with great glass and great image quality.

[@davidellinsworth3299]

I only own a Minolta SRT101, but I'll give you my list of "I really bloody want that" cameras 🤣: Nikon F3 Leica M3 Pentax 67 Mamiya RZ67 Fuji GF670 Contax 645 Contax III Mamiya C330 Hasselblad 501CM Fuji T-X1/XPan Fuji GW690 To get them all I need are a balaclava, a shotgun and a Ford Transit 😂

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Haha thanks David, definitely get the F3 first. So much camera for the money and reasonable attainable if you save for a few weeks/months depending on your situation. (It's the most loved camera by viewers so far**) ..making a tally!

[@leonarddavis8449]

I love the Olympus OM1n, had one for over 40 years, amazing durable camera with fantastic viewfinder. Also Zeiss Contarex bullseye, for photography and weight training, You will know what I mean if you pick one up. The British made 5x4 MPP is very enjoyable to use. You have a great collection there Matt.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thank you! Lots of love for the OM1n here. I'll have to make a part 2 to mention some of the greats!

[@pzkw10]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom pls do! Lot's of other amazing cameras esp. in the '70s out there😉

[@Autorange888]

Try a Rapid Omega camera if you think Zeiss Contarex is heavy.

[@Autorange888]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Who needs Leica when there's OM1 Olympus, its a masterpiece!!

[@alexeizhiltsov6797]

What a great collection! The same passion on this side also. Living in a private house helps to keep collection growing. The favourites in my collection are, the first mentioned rated highest: Olympus OM-4Ti, Nikon F, Nikon F2, Nikon FM2, Olympus Om-2n, Olympus Om-1, Kiev-4A, Pentacon Praktica LTL 3, Praktica MTL 5, Canon Ae-1 program, Pentax SP, Pentax K, Zorki 4k, Zenit TTL, Zenit 19.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! ..and great list of cameras too!

[@dutchcanuck7550]

The Olympus OM-2 is brilliant, accurate, light and has a fantastic viewfinder. The Pentax KX is a bit of a tank, but it's smooth as butter, has a terrific light meter and a very bright viewfinder. The Nikon F3 is also super smooth and almost indestructible. In a pinch, I'd probably pick the F3, but only because of my collection of manual-focus Nikkor lenses.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, F3 is the viewers winner so far.. counting continues!

[@michaelcase8574]

My favorite all time camera is my Rolleiflex SL66. My runner up is my Contax 2a red dial and the four Contax lenses that go with it. I share about 8 of the same cameras on your list. A beautiful selection, Matt!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Michael! Yes the SL66 was perhaps the most creative MFormat camera I've owned but I eventually sold mine as I shoot mostly 35mm. I have the Contax too (still need to put film in it.. as use the Kievs instead)

[@tonycanning8518]

Olympus OM-2n Just such a beautiful little 35mm camera does everything right and nothing you don't need. Not to mention fabulous lenses.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Tony! A lot of love for this series of cameras in the comments!

[@crissignori7482]

Oh yeah - That's a beauty !!!

[@roberthill1622]

Rolleiflex Automat Perfection. I love the 6x6 format and the waistfinder LETS ME SEE at 80 years old. The photos are exquisite. Got a Leica M3 my favorite rangefinder. I can see with it too. Great article Matt. Thank you!

[@Carfree-Cities]

Nikon F3. No contest. Used them for years, until I went digital. Now using Panasonic GH5 with the amazing Laowa 7.5 f/2.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, yes the F3 is very popular for sure! See part 2, the F3 got a lot of votes!

[@ArnaudSiemons]

Interviewer:"Do you have kids?" Matt:" About twenty".... 😁

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Haha! They cost me about the same!

[@rangersmith4652]

What a collection! I have only one film camera, the Canon A-1 I bought new in 1983. It's unremarkable, but solid. I've owned in for over 40 years, and I will never sell it.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks (that's only about 1/4) ..I don't own a house yet but I have my cameras haha. I'm equally impressed that you stayed with 1 camera. Good on you!

[@davidjenkins8009]

The Canon A1 is a very fine camera, I have never owned one but I have used one. In fact my finest rock star photo was taken with one, a friend lent me his when my own camera was being repaired.

[@rangersmith4652]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom One film camera at least. I own several digital cameras.

[@StephenKlitzky]

I still have the Nikon F I bought new in 1969

[@peterlund4501]

You have not tested any Olympus yet? Om1 small and mechanic ? Om2 small and electronic with even high speed sync (with Olympus speedlight) and the excellent om3 titan with multispot? You should at least give it a test 😊 cheers Peter 😊

[@Mamo878]

You're right, Matt really should be checking out the early OM SLRs since he enjoys small and light cameras. The OM-1 is nice but sort of a pain to use regularly since it used those now obsolete mercury batteries for the meter and you have to work around that with oddball battery setups. The OM-2 uses 'normal' batteries and since it's also aperture priority it's really easy to use - and also the same size as the tiny OM-1.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi Peter thanks! I did own a OM-1 once but it was before I knew the front from the back of a camera. Yes the small size attracts me but another camera system equally scares me haha. Yes if I can get one to review I will.

[@peterlund4501]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom hahaha 😆 maybe make a workshop with om system. You don’t need to own it …. Cheers 🥂 you are doing such a good job. Thanks for all the nice curated content …. From hamburg greetings

[@jounirauhanen9596]

Great video! I have a few Nikon film cameras. 2x F2's, F3, F4, F5, 2x FE2's and a FM2n. I think my favourite is a black F2as. I like the size of it and the feeling that it will last forever.

[@linjicakonikon7666]

Nice gear 👍📷🌟🌟🌟🌟

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Nice line-up! No FM3a yet!? I need to try the F2!

[@claretbadger]

I love my FM3a - but being predominantly a low light shooter I find the match needle a downgrade to the +o- of FM2 - a minor niggle coz it’s my beater otherwise. F3 also suffers from this fate - and I have many of those A cheap FM is an absolute joy to use (I own and use all F-F6 bodies You sure about the stellar performing Minolta/Rokker and not the arsey subject young man ?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Ah yes the FEs/FM3a needle is less ideal in low light true. I have the FM/FM2n too if required. My FM was my first and has served me really well (with brassing!) ..yes the 45/2 seems to easily beat similar Nikon 50s for raw sharpness and ease of focusing. Agree, put me in front of it and the photo will be trash so yes subject off helps with any lens. (Photo is #1 because of the girl BUT I couldn't have taken it with my Leica M or Leica iii cameras or Kiev, as I was @

[@claretbadger]

which is why I hate/love my M6 and Blad 503 - that minimum distance is a ballache, tried a 150mm and was no longer in arms length to "cajoule" my subject :)@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom

[@ShawnBrezny]

Leica M2 over M3, mainly for 35mm, 50mm, 90mm lens focal lengths using the stock 0.72 viewfinder... M2 is nearly as good as the M3 construction as well. Nice review... Peace!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Shawn!

[@markstarmer3677]

Having limited knowledge of SLR cameras, I have my late fathers old cameras. A few Nikons - FA and FG 20, plus some I can’t remember while typing this. Also an Exakta and at least one Olympus. Probably not worth a lot in this digital age, but to me they are heirlooms all the same.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Great that you still have them. You’ll have to stick a roll of film through one sometime!

[@tomislavmiletic_]

I've never owned any of the cameras from this list, maybe just played with some. The closest contender that I've had was the new Nikon FM2 with MD12. And as idiot that I am, I've sold it...

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Good camera. Never too late to get another!

[@p51d10]

Based on my actual shooting these days my favorite camera is a Leica IIf. However, I have just received a Kardon with the Kodak Ektar 2/47. Both have been sent out for a CLA but I have a feeling in the back of my mind that that combination may become my favorite.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Very nice! I know those Ektar lenses are said to be very good.

[@davidgifford8112]

Of your collection it would be the FM3a, light weight do anything. However I would really go for the grandfather of the FM3a, the humble but bullet proof FM.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks David, nice. The FM was one of my first film cameras. A beater but looks great with the brassing!

[@htjong3586]

Beautiful collection, Matt! My Top 3: Olympus OM-1, Hasselblad 500cm, and … Lumix LX5.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks and thanks for your choices!

[@jens-olebrockhoff6523]

Hi Matt, what a great collection of analog treasures! I've had a Nikon F3 with me since 1991 and I'm still totally happy with the 50mm/f1.8-AI combo. So the Nikon is my #1. My #2 is the Leica M6 from 1986. Together with the 50mm Summicron, it's the camera I would take to a desert island... #3 is my Nikon F6-smaller and lighter than the F5 and for me the perfect, modern symbiosis of digital and analog photography. I also have a bonus camera... the Yashika T4. This small camera fits perfectly in any jacket pocket😉. Thank you for your great KZbin videos! Please keep up the good work.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Jens and great choices too!

[@davidjenkins8009]

Three favourite cameras is easy, not so easy to narrow down to one, Pentax 6x7 (original) so under rated. Amazing photos, even at 50 inches. Rolleiflex SL66SE, has everything you could want, well nearly, and for a camera to use every day, a Rolleiflex 6003, which has everything you should need accept movements. Bonus camera that really does have everything except a sherpa to carry it, Fujifilm GX680 which is the most amazing camera ever made but it is heavy and as far away from a Leica as it is possible to get and not be using sheet film.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks David! Nice choice. I loved my SL66E (see that video).. I'll have to make a part 2 video!

[@richardwalker4518]

I find it hard to go past the Olympus OM1-N. I travelled half the world with one back in the day and it never missed a beat, even though it was an old beater I had bought off a Pro, had been around the clock a few times. There is nothing about them that is wrong, minimalist perfection I would say. The viewfinder experience is off the hook, why can't they make a digital camera with a viewfinder like that? Today I have an unmarked copy in mint condition that I bought about 23 years ago for £149. I am tempted to add an OM3, but aside from the multi spot metering, not sure if there is much difference. OM3 is rare and Titanium version costs a bomb. Maybe one day, but OM1 is not for sale.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Richard, nice! If I didn't have so many Nikon F lenses I could be tempted. I do love small setups as you see. (The Ti models are lovely! I saw one once)

[@richardwalker4518]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I built up a collection of vintage Nikkor glass myself, but sold out half of them, as I realised the flange distance was a bit of a stumbling block for use on film cameras and DSLRs that aren't F mount. I kept a few smaller ones that adapt well to mirrorless. OM-3 Ti, yeah, that would be the one to go for, one day I might decide that life is short and bag one!

[@AnalogBob207]

Wonderful list! I was pleased to see my own desert island camera made your list - the Minolta X-370 (X-300 on your list), and with my favorite lens of all time, that gorgeous small and light 45/f2. Aside from the obvious reasons - the body is small and light, simple with no bells and whistles, and just a breeze to shoot, and the lens is also small and light and my favorite focal length. BUT for me it's also personal as the X-370 was the first real camera I bought myself back in the day, and the lens was given to me by my father, and was also my first lens for that camera (and only lens for a number of years). Thanks for this great run down.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Bob, great to see some more love for the humble X-300 and 45/2!

[@paultaylorphotography9499]

I bought an X300 for peanut’s with a zoom lens can’t recall which one but during a comment chat Matt suggested I get the 45 F2 which I did soon after never regretted it lovely light set up cheers for the advise

[@steveborghardt]

My 2 favorites are my 1952 Leica IIIf and my recent purchase of a 1930 Leica 1c - These 2 I will never willingly let go of. I've been using the IIIf for the past few months and it absolutely gives me more joy than my Fuji X-T4 and my Nikon D850 combined. I'm not getting rid of my Fuji or Nikon but the fun I have with the IIIf cant be matched. I also love the fact that I can push and pull the 45mb .tiff files in lightroom - not that I need to do much of that as long as I use my light meter I use what comes straight from the camera quite often. Your discussion on the Agfa Billy Record II was very intriguing as it shoots 6x9. Now I'm looking at possibly picking up a Fujica GW690 for 6x9 medium format as I'm more comfortable with that camera layout. - Thanks again for a great video.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Steve and welcome to the wonderful world of the little Barnack Leicas! Great aren't they! :D

[@steveborghardt]

@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Truly. There's a dimension in shooting film that I don't get shooting straight digital. The starting point being the film you choose and the personality it imparts on everything you shoot for the duration of the roll. I'm really looking forward to this part of the journey.

[@Bertzcommodities]

I love my Leica IIIf red dial Barnack Leicas are quite the nice piece , just restored a 1940 red curtain IIIc and it’s just such a work of art I had a Zorki-1c clone and i loved the surprising results it gave me, nice camera as well I really like Soviet cameras too , I shoot with a Kiev 6c TTL for medium format quite often

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Great stuff! I still have my 6x6 Kiev88 "ARAX" (see that video). It travelled all over.

[@pzkw10]

Congrats, great collection, indeed! My personal favourites quite simple: 1. Nikon F3HP, 2. Nikon FM2n, 3. Nikkormat EL. Ok, closely followed by my Nikkormat FT2, Asahi Pentax Spotmatic SP II, Nikon F-301 and my very first SLR which I bought in 1977, Ricoh Singlex II - a real tank, indestructible and still going strong😉.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks and nice collection too!

[@theblackandwhitefilmproject]

I choose my Leica M2 with a Doomo Cold Shoe meter. I know the M3 has a better viewfinder but I mainly use 35mm and 50mm lenses so the M2 suits me better and I have no problem with the M2 viewfinder. There is something special about using a 60 yr old camera - l guess like owning a classic car. Cheers!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, yes +1 for the M2 from me. As good a finder as the M3 (single tramlines) and a joy for 35mm lenses. It's #21 on my list! :) I'll never sell it.

[@russtynail55]

My favourite film SLR's, Minolta XD7/XD11, (silky smooth film advance, the shutter sound is premium, beautiful, sharp Rokkor lenses), Olympus OM1n, Nikon FM.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! I still have my FM. The OM-1 got lots of votes. See the next video for the winners

[@justnoted2995]

The Minolta XD7 /11 has Leica copied shutter mechanisms

[@djduffy1000]

Wow.. what a collection, you have a fantastic series of beautiful film cameras and I totally admire and respect your knowledge. I have unfortunately sold off cameras over the years to buy new cameras and looking at your collection wish I had kept every camera I have owned. I have one film camera now, the Canon F 1. A pro camera from the 1970`s, you can remove the prism and use it as a waist level finder but none metered a lovely camera I shall never sell. One of my favorite film cameras was the Canon T90, manual focus with auto wind and a fantastic metering system, multi spot I believe it was the forerunner for the EOS system. Thanks for a great vid.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thank you! I hear you. I sold some of the best known premium cameras. I will have to do a part 2 video to give some greats a mention! (Canon F1 is the Nikon F3 alternative as I understand so I'm sure it's great).

[@richkurtz6053]

My favorite camea was a ecconomical rangefinder camera, The Yashica Ekectro 35. It was large enough to fit comfortably in my hands and had enough weight for very steady photos, The metering system was new and for the time vey accurate for automatic pictures, including timed exposres.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! Yes some fixed lens RF cameras are good value. I have my late grandfather's Yashica MG-1

[@MARKLINMAN1]

Nikon F3 for me, I shoot with both a Hassy 501Cm and a Leica M6, owned an F3 about 25 years ago, still wish I never sold it.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Mark, all 3 cameras are stellar. Never to late to get another F3!

[@marcbink5370]

For me it is the Leica IIIc, Ihagee Exakta V, Zeiss-ikon Contaflex, Rolleiflex II with Tessar, and for a banger, believe it or not, a KW Practica L, the steel shutters are bulletproof.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Marc, nice!

[@jlwilliams]

Most used: Canon P. Nothing special about it, but it feels good in the hand, does everything I usually need a film camera to do, and isn't so rare or expensive that I get the vapors about taking it out. Bonus: the rangefinders in Canons seem much more knock-resistant than those in Leicas. Actual favorite: probably my 1950s-era Mamiya Six. I like it for the same reason you like your Voigtlander folder - a 6x6cm camera you can shove in your jacket pocket - but unlike the Voigtlander, the Mamiya has a coupled rangefinder, auto film stop, and cocks the shutter when you advance the film… all the “mod cons.” I feel kind of silly going out and about with such an obviously old-timey camera, but I just can't find anything lacking in the darn thing…

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks James! I have a slightly bigger 6x6 folder with RF and great lens. I know there is little interest in these now but perhaps one for a future video. (..and yes Canon offer great value)

[@LucyS565]

In regards to film cameras, my very first camera was a Minolta XG-1, I still have it. Lots of memories, fun and great pics with it. My second choice is an Olympus 35SP.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Great! Thanks Lucy

[@marlonsouza9224]

I was amazed when I saw the Leica standard staying for top 15, then, top 10, then… Top 5!! (Actually, after the Leica I, I thought you wouldn’t mention it… until the big surprise! #1!! That’s totally amazing coming from you! Amazing, amazing… it’s amazing that such a small camera from the beginning of the 35mm era is remembered and loved in such a way.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! Yes cameras are not quite built the same as they used to be and I love the size/ feel/ quality too!

[@mpw621]

Matt, great photos with those classics ! I like the Nikon FM and Olympus OM-1 ... for digital - Leica CL so compact and takes great photos.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks and nice! The FM was my first serious film camera. I still have it.

[@jensruckert4763]

As a user and collector, 1. Leica M4-p, 2. Canon EF, 3. Canon F1n, 4. Leica M2 , 5. Rolleiflex 2.8, 6. Mamiya C330, 7. Hasselblad 500c/m, 8. Nikon F3hp, 9. Canonet QL17, 10. Minolta Hi-matic, 11. Leica M5, 12. Kowa 6, 13. Voigtländer Bessa 6x9, 14. Welta Perle 15. Meopta Flexaret 16. Leica M3, 17. Rollei 35SE, 18. Olympus 35rc 19. Canonet 28 20. Leica M6 ...

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Jens, very nice list!

[@GiancarloBenzina]

Consolidated: M11, M4, IIIF, Minolta XE, maybe opting for a triple M setting instead M11, MP, M4. Not consolidated: 1. Leica M11 2. Leica M4 (1967) 3. Leica IIIF 4. Leica M240 5. Leica M6 TTL 6. Leica M6 classic 7. Minolta XE/XE-1 8. Minolta SRT-101 9. Hasselblad 500 (have not) 10. Rolleiflex TLR (have not) 11. Nikkormat FT3 12. Pentax Espio Mini (had) 13. Rollei 35 (had) 14. Minox ML (had)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks and nice list!!

[@fairuzfairouz391]

Nikon : nikon fm3a Canon : canon f1 Olympus : om3ti Pentax : Pentax mx Konica : t3n Minolta : xd7 Mamiya tlr : c330f Hasselblad : 500 c m Leica : m6 P&s : yashica t4, t5

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Nice, see part 2 for the voted winners. You have some mentioned there!

[@jw48335]

Medium Format GW680iii Mamiya C220 Pro with adapted Kiev 88 45-degree metered finder Bronica ETRSI with AEIII finder 35mm Manual Focus Fujica Compact Deluxe Nikon FE2 35mm Autofocus Canon EOS 3 Konica Genbakantoku Zoom

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Nice! I still have a rebadged Kiev 88 👍🏻

[@rexypoooo]

I will never sell my EOS 5 that I owned new since the 90's, even though I will still like a EOS3 for its 45-point eye focusing points, the 5 got me really started in photography after my starter camera. I do like my M3DS, but it was dropped by the previous owner and the RF was bent and cannot be straighten while overhaul, so I would eventually replace it with a good copy at some point. Last but not least is my Pentax 67; beast of a camera that creates wonderful result, especially now furnished with pimpmypentax exotic wood furniture. Runner up is perhaps my Mamiya SIX IV as a pocket 6x6.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! Yes the P67 are very nice.

[@rainermarx5217]

the M3 is great, but I prefer my Voigtländer Bessa-R Rangefinder LTM M39 / Voigtländer Color Skopar 21/4mm Pancake + ULTRON 35mm F1.7 ASPHERICAL + Viewfinder + Camera grip or my 6x6 Agfa Super Isolette Rangefinder.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Nice!! I have the Bessa R + 21/4 25/4 etc combos. See my recent video, I just re-bought the 35/1.7

[@Dahrenhorst]

My favorite film cameras (which I actually own and use): 35mm rangefinder - Carl Zeiss Werra IV 35mm SLR - Olympus OM-1 6x4.5cm - Konica Pearl IV 6x6cm - tie between Voigtländer Brillant S (the version with Heliar lens and Compur Rapid Shutter) and Pentacon Six 6x9cm - Agfa Record III (the version with Solinar lens) Other - 6x14cm converted Kodak 3-A Autograph Special (the version with rangefinder and Tessar lens) 9x12cm - Voigtländer Bergheil (the version with Heliar lens) 10x15cm - ICA Ideal 325 (the version with Tessar lens) If I'd had to pick one, it would be a difficult decision between the Konica Pearl IV and the Voigtländer Brillant S, today probably the Konica, because it is a bit more economical with film and much more easy to use. On another day it might be the Voigtländer because of its fantastic viewfinder and its characterful lens.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks and nice collection! Probably the most unique list commented so far. (I have the P6 TTL ..has spacing issues)

[@chriscard6544]

Hasselblad 500C / Leica III / Agfa Clack / Isolette III / Stenopeika 4x5 / Yashica Mat 124 G

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Chris, you picked well. See part 2 for the most voted camera.

[@PatrickWilson-ks9dz]

Hello Osbornenauts out there. My 'must keep cameras have been collected over the years. From going to Jessops Birmingham and picking up and still having the original brochures from the 80's, 90's and 00's I've wanted to own the following cameras for many years. Purchased over the last few years my camera collection now consists of the Leica R8 ( 50mm-F2 and 90mm-F2.8 ), Contax RTS III ( Various Carl Zeiss C/Y,Tamron Adaptall II C/Y and Yashica ML C/Y lenses) Nikon F4 and Nikon F5 as I have a Nikon D3X, a Nikon D810 and D850 DSLR's. It would be a tough call between the Leica R8 and the Contax RTS III as the number one 'keeper'. They're both a joy to use.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Patrick! Yes the R8 is nice, I've got the earlier models but not that one and a Contax RX (I think it's that one)(sounds very cool!)

[@steviebonn]

My first SLR was a Zeiss ikon contaflex. Next was an Olympus OM 1 before switching to Nikon. My favorite was the F 100. Also used the graflex speed grafic for 4x5 and 6x9cm roll back. Still have the Nikon, zeiss and graflex.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Nice Stevie, after this video I fell in love with 4x5 (and using 120 backs) so doing a lot of that at the moment (see the latest video!). F100 is a nice F5 lightweight alternative! I had one.

[@ChristophProtz]

Nice collection and I was astonished to see so many Nikons in your top 20 (funny as I just try to limit myself and collection to cameras I use, thus some of my od Nikons will soon hopefully get a new owner that uses them more :-)) (except the F3 that will stay)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! Yes I think most of my viewers are Leica or Nikon so perhaps slight bias. Yes keep your F3!

[@leedaero]

After watching the movie “Blow-Up” in 1967 I bought an Olympus Trip 35. As a gift I received a Minolta-16 MG in 1971. In the 1980’s I bought a Canon AE-1. The only film cameras I’ve owned.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Great! That's all most people need. It's now my job testing and reviewing cameras so that's my excuse!

[@oscarpantalone2964]

At the moment my favourite are the Kodak Retina II (heligon lens) and the Rolleiflex (tessar) but I much use the Yashica fx3 2000 super with Zeiss lenses. About some of the cameras you mencioned: the Agfa Billy Record like others Agfas have a big problem with the bellows, you are very lucky, I liked the Minolta x300 but sold it because it has no exposure compensation. The micro nikkor 55 is very nice, I have a cheap and nice body too (F301). The Sonnar 50mm f1.5 is a great lens!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Oscar. I did have the Agfa 6x9 serviced. I really need to use it more. I looked at the Kodak Retina cameras many times in the past! Nice.

[@russrosener7463]

TWENTY?! I know I'm guilty too. Have only made it to #8 in your video. My top six to never sell would be Rolleiflex E2 with 2.8 Zeiss Planar, Leica M3, Nikon FM2, Hasselblad 503 cx with 50mm CLE Distagon, Olympus OM-2n and Kodak Retina IIIc.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Nice list. See the follow up video showing the highest voted cameras. Good news, you have some of them listed!

[@BB-doc-fan]

Three icons from the sixties/seventies: Paillard Bolex D8L 8mm filmcamera with 3 (turnable) lenses and a handheld grip Minox 35 series (mini 35mm photo cameras) LUBITEL-2 Sovjet-camera LOMO Lens Triplet - 22 (4.5 / 75) Voigtlander Brilliant Copy 6 x 6 Vintage Made in UssR

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! I know #2&3

[@stephanpaier9887]

Bad Luck, film in the Leica Standard.... My favorite film cameras are: 1. Nikon F4, 2. Leica RE, Canonet QL17 GIII

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Oh no, I just checked and you are of course correct! How annoying. I hate to waste film. (And I did a few takes for shorter video clips so I must have wasted 8+ frames :(

[@techguy9023]

Military surplus Speed Graphic, Yashicamat 124G, Minolta SRT 201, Pentax 645.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Very cool, I did just buy something similar to one of those so stay tuned!

[@throtol]

Here is my top three - by the way Matt, you have great taste! 1. Topcon RE-2 2. Nikon F2 3. Leica M3 I strongly prefer mechanical cameras. It is so hard to select the top 3 (e.g., no Rolleiflex, no Leicaflex, no Yashica YF.......(:

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Nice! I’ve never used a Topcon but I hear good things.

[@michaelfiller3452]

Canon A-1 with the MA motor drive and the f1.2 85mm, had it since 1979. Hassey 501 & 503 rigs, with 80mm T* and the old cone shaped distagon 40mm. Nikonos V for underwater. All have been good solid workhorses. I stll prefer my Sinar F 4x5 over all of them. I wish you had done all of the shutter sounds at a consistent speed, like 1/60th. My Hassey sounds like slamming the door of a Volvo, while the Nikonos is almost silent. The LF lenses are very quiet as well.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Michael, yes great point on the shutter speeds, sorry about that. The Hassy's got a lot of votes (see part 2 video). I'm loving 4x5 since this video (see latest video and a few recent ones!) Those Nikonos are huge/cool!

[@salossi]

You should have re-cocked the 500C/M, before re-attatching the film back! So, you`ll loose one frame. ALWAYS re-cock Hassis instantly after firing them. My fave is probably the SWC/M or my Linhof Technika 4x5.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Great tip thanks. Yes luckily I do this before I load film. I read a lot on the Linhof cameras, stay tuned on that!

[@paulgreen6903]

At time frame 18:20, you said an ELCAN lens ( which in made in Midland Ont Canada ) and this is NOT an ELCAN lens.....it s a cheap COMMUNIST CHINESE copy. Please say your sorry to me, Leitz of Midland, Ontario and the designer Dr Walter Mandele.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Paul, yes sorry I try to make my videos shorter where possible so often simplify or shorter words "Elcan" in this example, as the Chinese copy of the original Leica lens.

[@qwiklok]

Contax RTS III, Contax AS. built in focus within the camera. Amazing technology. Uses Zeiss lenses.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! I have the Contax RX and some lenses

[@terrydear4038]

1. Pentax 67 2. (For contrast) Rollei 35 3. Pentax MX

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Love it, a giant and a mini!

[@davidjenkins8009]

Definitely class leading cameras everyone of them.

[@thestranger8524]

My choice is Nikon F4S. Fantastic camera, works in virtually any weather condition on Earth. The only Nikon model compatible with full array of Nikon lenses. There was NASA version, they used it in space (first operational digital camera). They chose the F4 body for a big reason. No other camera is so rugged and durable.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! I have the basic F4. (They took the Hasselblad to the moon too. See the next video. That was voted number 1

[@davidderuyver6519]

Impressive collection and great video about film cameras. Nothings about Pentax like an MX? My desert island camera would be the fabulous Kodak Retina iic and it’s 50mm 2.8… Did you try one already?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! I did look at Retina cameras in the past but never bought one. Never tried 35mm Pentax.

[@SkepticalSteve01]

WOT, no Nikon S RF?? The S3 allows you to keep both eyes open when photographing, comes with a remarkable f1.4 5cm lens that has romantic spherical aberration wide open, but is sharp as a very sharp thing when closed down a couple of stops, and provides a deeply satisfying user experience.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Steve, I would if the RF patch was more defined. I have the S2 and love the build and the SC 1.4 is perhaps one of my best performing/ most loved 50s so I hear you. I just use that lens on my M3 so I can see easily / accurately to focus. (I try to shoot at f2 for film)

[@andreaxyz3959]

I would say my OM System is favourite if the OM4ti would not keep jamming and, sadly, my OM1 light meter works only when it suits him.... Hence I will say my Contax AX.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! See part 2, the OM cameras got a lot of votes!

[@dougberrett8094]

My favorite film cameras are: Graflex Century Graphic 2-1/4 x 3-1/4 with Rodenstock lens. Medium format so large prints are very sharp. Also I have a roll film back as well as cut film holders. Not stuck with whatever film is “in” the camera. Plus tilts and shifts to give a lot of control. Favorite 35mm is Canon Ftb. This is because in testing the split image focus was very good. Better than any other camera tested. Set up was at a place that made “event” cameras. These take up to 1,000,000 frames/second. In their lab, on a cast iron bench, the object, camera, and traveling microscope were mounted. An optically flat fiber optic plate was pressed against the film plane. Focus was determined by the slight chromatic aberration still in the lens. The object was in focus when black, out of focus when red or green. The optical engineer and I were mostly goofing off, but the set up, which had a test indicator to measure the position change as the lens was moved, was set to evaluate lenses for the event cameras. The lenses were rejected if they could not resolve 40 line pairs per millimeter. There was actually no was to focus this well. Best focus was found, an exposure made, the lens moved about .0005” and then another exposure made. This was done several times and then the developed images examined to see if the criteria was achieved. We did not make images, we only measured the difference between actual focus and where the split image said it was. My Ftb was less than .001” from where the split image said it was. All other cameras tested were off by more.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Very cool! I’m loving the 4x5 cameras currently, my Speed Graphic and a MPP I just got. See those videos and new video to come. (I just got back from a trip using 120 backs on 4x5)

[@kevincooper8666]

No1 FM3a / No2 Konica hexar RF /No3 Olympus XA

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! Did you see part 2 for the voted top 10 winners? You picked one ;)

[@bsimpson6204]

1, Olympus OM1 just a delight to use 2, Olympus RD so much lighter than the Leica M3 3, Yashica 124G high image quality, light, cheap

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! See the next video. The OM1 got a lot of votes!

[@bondgabebond4907]

If I had to choose, it would be my Nikon FE2 with motor drive. Next will be my Nikon F2A. Why the FE2 as #1? It is so much easier to use, it's lighter and less bulky. It is one of Nikons most beautiful cameras that is also a joy to use.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Great. See part 2, I mention the FE2. I love it too

[@averywagg1839]

What a fun video! Thanks. My favs would be my old 50-year old M4, then the Minolta CLE, and lastly, the new Leica M6. The M6 was more of a frivolous purchase, but I had wanted a new film camera..

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Avery!

[@davewernermobile]

The often overlooked Nikon FA is my favorite. First camera that quietly introduced matrix metering which exists in most cell phones today and had a honeycomb titanium shutter. Less sharp edges than an F3. 😉

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Dave! That's one of the few Nikons in that line I don't have.

[@christianlorenz2717]

My top 3 for 35mm is the Contax RTS, the Miranda Auto Sensorex EE and the Exakta RTL1000 And for Middleformat: Pentacon Six (or Kiev60), Montanus Super Reflex Moskva 5 by ZKM

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, some less common ones there but I have the Moskva-5, and P6TL.. they are less reliable but good fun for the money when they work!

[@christianlorenz2717]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I think if your able to get a working one these are super reliable and quite cheap to get serviced. But I’m servicing all my cameras by myself so this cameras are no problem for me 😂

[@holleyman1970]

My favourite is the Nikon FE2, the 1/4000, good needle light meter, light yet built like a tank and it is very ergonomic for me, everything where I need it to be. Best of all is I can pick one up for $250 and get the same quality and pictures as a FM3a but 1000 to 1500 dollars cheaper.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes until very recently I was exactly the same. The FM3a is a recent purchase that I never expected to make. It’s my long term backup for my FE2 if the electronics ever fail.

[@toomanynegatives]

Never sell my m2, rollei 2.8f, Pentax 67 and my f2as. The rest could go. And I have roughly as many as you! But those 4 are never going.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Nice, thanks! (Yes I'd keep my M2 too* I overlooked that one!)

[@josephcumbey1770]

What about the Rollei 35/35S? Love them. And for a drop it in the bag and never worry about it: The Minox GT;

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

See the next video, they got quite a few votes from this video but I don't think they make the top 10 (up against all other film cameras).

[@angusli6288]

it think it was the best time camera in the old days. There are so many different types of camera available in the market. 35mm SLR, RF, and so many different design for medium format cameras. Now, i can hardly tell the different between different cameras.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, yes there are a lot of nice choices now for sure

[@rdavis7350]

I have a Nikon fm3a, it was the last film camera I bought before going digital. It's had only 3 rolls of film go through it. I would start using it again if film was less expensive. I like to just hold it now and then because it is really fine.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Great. Get some budget B&W film and have fun with it!

[@ultraphotographer]

Matt what lens did you put on bessa L video? i took one non much time ago and i don't know anithing altought that it's beautiful. Thank you very much, keep going ! ;)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi, probably 15mm Heliar- the kit lens for that camera. Excellent lens!

[@IanStephens-eh6nv]

Don't laugh but my favourite film camera is a canon t50, ugly plastic auto everything mf slr, so ugly but oh the sound it makes just gorgeous

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Ian, nothing wrong with that! My most ugly most noisy camera was my Fuji GA645!

[@shaunbrowne3963]

Mine are a Minox 35, with a sharp 35 mm lens, and my Canon AV1 with a full bag of Canon prime lenses.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Nice! The Minox are super small!

[@PeterDempsey-yarglags]

I traded in my bessa l for a 5D original. It was too nice for me, give me a Fed or a Zorki anyday. The 5D is virtually a film camera anyway. 🦆🦆

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Peter! Yes I tend to prefer cameras that are more involved.. to enjoy the process :). You'll see that in some newer videos and stuff to come.

[@diveaddict6885]

Hasselblad 500cm, Rollei metered TLR and Nikon F100

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks I'm writing part 2 blog/ video script now. You votes will count for the winners to follow.

[@MarcS4R]

great Video, my personal faves are : Hasselblad 203 FE, Leica MP , FM3a and Contax T3

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Marc! ..and very strong choices!!

[@philparker97]

I wasn't expecting your No.1 choice, and a few early ones were a surprise, although interesting, and such a great collection. For me, in no specific order: Nikon F3; Olympus OM-1; Leica R6/6.2; Pentax 6x7; Hassleblad 501CM; Bronica ETRSi.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Phil, yes I think I'll need to do a part 2 to cover some of the greats!

[@thevoiceman6192]

I like the fact you know which camera took which photo. It helps giving an examples of what the camera can do. Nice work.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes, luckily I have a massive 14K + photo back catalogue on Flickr!

[@rcpmac]

I have a Nikon F2 that I like because it’s the last pro Nikon that is fully mechanical - that is - the camera has a mechanical shutter and can operate without batteries. I believe it is 1972

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! Yes I'll try to get one to try at some point and I'll be sure to make a video.

[@CravensPhD]

FUJIFILM X100VI for a Leica affect in digital format

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, yes I know some people love the little Fujis.

[@andychandler3992]

Leica m3, Leica IIIb, Leica IIIa. Contax IIIa I'll probably be buried with those.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Andy, great. It's called going out with style! :D

[@andychandler3992]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I don't let anyone near that M3, nor do I let it out of my sight when I'm in the field. I'd shot with everything but the Leica M3. My wife was like "just get one or you'll end up buying 10 others before you get it seeing if it does the same thing." First shutter actuation, I was hooked.

[@michaeldimmitt2188]

@@andychandler3992Can you share the location where you will be buried… 🤣🤣🤣 *shovel emoji *buried treasure chest emoji

[@DGHecei]

Wow, What an awesome collection. Well done on the the video. Please, work on your audio. I watched this and loved it but the microphone you used was so bad.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, sorry yes I had to move the mic away so it wasn’t it shot and it gave bad audio. Part 2 showing the most voted cameras has better audio.

[@alexandermenzies9954]

Fun +, Matt. Sharpest? Rollei 35. Made in Germany, 3.5/40mm Tessar. Ease of transport and results ? Voigtlander Perkeo 3 (6x6, uncoupled rangefinder, Color Skopar 3.5/80mm).

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks and nice choices!

[@fatcat7msk7ru]

the only thing I don't like about old cameras is periodic problems with the shutter

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes that's why I have some newer "old" cameras such as the FM3s which is almost 50 years newer than my M3 and 70 years newer than my Leica Standard.

[@joshuarhea1648]

Rolleiflex Mx-evs, hasselblad 500c, Nikon f4s

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! See part too for the voted top 10 cameras!

[@66zey]

I like your choice of cameras my cameras Start at 8x11 minox riga leica 1f m3 Nikon f2

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks!

[@paultaylorphotography9499]

Very fine collection there Matt on my never sell list is my Nikon F4 voigtlander bessa 2 minolta dynax 9 Zeiss ikonta M airesflex TLR bronica ETR on my list of wanted would be barnack 3c a Hasselblad X pan and a Leica M3 although I once heard a comment about the phallic film advance lever that’s all I can see on that camera now sorry to plant that image for you 😂

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Ha thanks Paul. See part 2 for the voted winners!

[@paultaylorphotography9499]

I'll check in mate cheers @@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom

[@63MacGuy]

Black Pentax Spotmatic F. Olympus OM-4. Nikon FTN

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks!

[@realpain84]

Thoughts on Jupiter-12? im selling mine ... cheers 😊

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Love it, see my video

[@SchwarzPoet]

Take a look at the following cameras: - Voigtländer Vito CSR - Voigtländer Vitomatic IIIcs (The only difference between the Voigtländer Vitomatic IIIb and the Voigtländer Vitomatic IIIcs is the internal light meter and its power supply. With the IIIb you still have the selenium light meter, with the IIIcs you only need an LR44 button cell battery, which you can get cheaply anywhere.) - Praktica VLC2 - Kowa Super 66 - Pentax LX - Sigma Mark1 - Voigtländer Bessaflex TM Perhaps one or two of these will change your top 20 ranking. 😉

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Cool cameras thanks. I only really know of the Kowa of these.

[@SchwarzPoet]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Do you need some more key data on these cameras, or do you want to find out for yourself? 😁

[@liamgoogle9488]

Hi Matt, great video content. You might wanna work on the sound quality ;)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Liam, yes sorry it was frustrating. I had to move the mic just out of frame (with the video on ultra wide) and the quality was much worse than when I have it right next to my face.

[@pierrecrampagne6826]

J'ai vraiment aimé cette sélection d'appareils photo dont certaines marques ne sont pas connues, ou d'un cercle très restreint. (L e i c a , N i k o n , H a s s e l b l a d, etc), la nostalgie de l'argentique, du développement, et du tirage en noir et blanc, pour avoir une photo parfaite, avec une grande profondeur. Avoir un objectif qui est le meilleur pour la netteté ( les uns à f 8 et pour les autres plus ou moins un diaphragme). Ne parlons pas des temps de pose en dehors du plein soleil en intérieur et extérieur. Je ne m'étale pas sur la technique.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! I just built my first darkroom at age 46 (in my tiny bathroom) so printing has started.

[@AndrejsZavadskis]

one video and price up !

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

I doubt it, many viewers are Leica fans and those prices are already up.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

..see part 2 for the voted winners!