Fuji GS645W Manual

The Fuji GS645W is a medium format rangefinder camera featuring a 60mm f/5.6 wide-angle lens, manual film advance, coupled rangefinder focusing, and compact folding design. This manual covers camera operation, film loading, exposure settings, focusing techniques, maintenance, and troubleshooting for this classic film camera.

Camera Overview

The Fuji GS645W is a compact medium format camera producing 6x4.5cm negatives on 120 film. Key features include folding bellows design, bright frame viewfinder, and precision rangefinder focusing system.

Component	Description
Lens	60mm f/5.6 EBC Fujinon (4 elements)
Shutter	Seiko leaf shutter 1-1/500 sec + B
Viewfinder	Bright frame with parallax correction marks
Film Format	120 film, 6x4.5cm (16 exposures)
Focusing	Coupled rangefinder, 1m to infinity
Film Advance	Manual lever with double exposure prevention
Exposure Meter	None (external meter required)
Flash Sync	Hot shoe and PC sync terminal
Weight	Approximately 800g
Dimensions	145x95x55mm (folded)

Film Loading & Unloading

Proper film handling ensures optimal image quality and prevents film jams.

1. Open camera back: Pull up rewind knob and open back cover.
2. Insert film: Place 120 film spool in left chamber, pull paper leader to take-up spool.
3. Align marks: Match start arrow on paper backing with mark on camera.
4. Close back: Ensure back is securely latched.
5. Advance film: Wind until frame counter shows "1".

WARNING! Never force film advance. Handle film in subdued light to prevent fogging.

Camera Operation

Basic shooting procedure for the GS645W.

1. Unfold camera: Pull front standard until it locks into position.
2. Set exposure: Use external light meter to determine shutter speed and aperture.
3. Focus: Turn focusing lever while viewing rangefinder patch.
4. Compose: Use viewfinder with parallax compensation marks.
5. Shoot: Press shutter release button smoothly.
6. Advance film: Use advance lever to next frame.

CAUTION! Always fold camera before storage. Handle bellows carefully to prevent damage.

Technical Specifications

• Film Type: 120 roll film
• Image Size: 6x4.5cm (actual 56x41.5mm)
• Lens: Fujinon 60mm f/5.6 (4 elements, 4 groups)
• Aperture Range: f/5.6 to f/32
• Shutter Speeds: 1, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, 1/15, 1/30, 1/60, 1/125, 1/250, 1/500 sec + B
• Viewfinder: Albada type with bright frames
• Rangefinder Base: 38mm effective base length
• Minimum Focus: 1 meter (3.3 feet)
• Filter Size: 52mm screw-in
• Flash Sync: All speeds with electronic flash

Controls and Functions

Camera controls are designed for intuitive operation and precise control.

Top Plate: Shutter speed dial, film advance lever, frame counter, shutter release, rewind knob.

Lens Panel: Aperture ring, focusing lever, depth of field scale, self-timer lever, flash sync terminal.

Viewfinder: Bright frame with parallax correction marks, rangefinder patch, exposure reminder dial.

Back: Film type reminder window, back release latch.

Focusing Techniques

The coupled rangefinder provides accurate focusing for sharp images.

1. View subject: Look through viewfinder at your subject.
2. Align images: Turn focusing lever until rangefinder patch images merge.
3. Check distance: Verify focus distance on lens scale.
4. Use depth of field: Refer to DOF scale for hyperfocal distance settings.

Tip: For critical focus, focus on high-contrast edges where rangefinder patch is most visible.

Exposure Settings

Manual exposure control requires understanding of shutter speed and aperture relationships.

1. Measure light: Use handheld light meter or sunny 16 rule as guide.
2. Set shutter speed: Choose based on subject movement and camera stability.
3. Set aperture: Determine based on depth of field requirements and light conditions.
4. Check combination: Ensure proper exposure value for film speed.
5. Use exposure compensation: Adjust for backlit scenes or high contrast.

WARNING! Always cock shutter before changing shutter speeds to prevent mechanism damage.

Maintenance & Care

Proper maintenance ensures long-term reliability and optimal performance.

Clean lens with blower and lens tissue only. Store camera with shutter uncocked and lens retracted. Keep bellows free of dust and moisture. Have camera serviced every 2-3 years for lubrication and adjustment.

CAUTION! Never oil shutter mechanism. Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity.

Accessories

Compatible accessories enhance camera functionality.

Accessory	Function
Lens Hood	Reduces flare, protects lens
52mm Filters	UV, skylight, polarizing, etc.
Soft Case	Protects camera during transport
Viewfinder Accessories	Eyepiece correction lenses
Flash Units	Compatible with hot shoe or PC sync

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Blurry images	Focus error/camera shake	Check rangefinder alignment; use faster shutter speed; use tripod.
Film not advancing	Improper loading/take-up spool	Reload film; ensure paper leader properly attached.
Shutter not firing	Shutter not cocked/safety lock	Advance film fully; check if camera is unfolded completely.
Light leaks	Worn bellows/back seal	Inspect bellows for holes; replace light seals.
Inconsistent exposure	Shutter speed inaccuracy	Have shutter speeds tested and calibrated.

Service: Contact authorized Fuji service center for repairs and calibration.

Note: This camera requires periodic rangefinder alignment for accurate focusing.