Fuji GSW690III Manual

The Fuji GSW690III is a professional medium format rangefinder camera featuring a fixed 65mm f/5.6 lens (equivalent to 28mm in 35mm format), 6x9cm film format, mechanical shutter with speeds from 1 second to 1/500th plus Bulb, coupled rangefinder focusing, automatic parallax correction, and manual film advance with frame counter. Below are key sections for operation, features, specifications, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 65mm f/5.6 fixed lens, Rangefinder focusing, Mechanical shutter, Film advance lever, Frame counter, Hot shoe, Tripod socket.

Camera Overview

Familiarize yourself with camera controls and components.

1. Front: Lens, rangefinder window, viewfinder window, shutter release
2. Top: Shutter speed dial, film advance lever, frame counter, hot shoe
3. Back: Film back latch, pressure plate, film window
4. Bottom: Tripod socket, battery compartment

WARNING! Always handle with care; avoid dropping or impact damage.

Loading Film

Use 120 or 220 medium format film.

1. Open back: Pull up back latch and open camera back.
2. Insert film: Place film roll in chamber, align arrow marks.
3. Thread film: Pull paper leader across to take-up spool.
4. Close back: Ensure secure latch; advance to frame 1.
5. Advance film: Use lever until frame counter shows 1.

CAUTION! Load film in subdued light; ensure proper alignment.

Specifications

• Camera Type: Medium format rangefinder
• Film Format: 6x9cm on 120/220 film
• Lens: Fujinon 65mm f/5.6 (4 elements, 4 groups)
• Shutter: Seiko mechanical leaf shutter
• Shutter Speeds: 1s, 1/2s, 1/4s, 1/8s, 1/15s, 1/30s, 1/60s, 1/125s, 1/250s, 1/500s, B
• Focusing: Coupled rangefinder, 1m to infinity
• Viewfinder: Bright-frame with parallax correction
• Flash Sync: All speeds via hot shoe/PC sync
• Dimensions: 195 x 120 x 120mm
• Weight: 1400g (without film)

Controls and Operation

Main controls: Shutter speed dial, Film advance lever, Shutter release, Focus ring.

Operation sequence: Set shutter speed → Compose → Focus → Release shutter → Advance film.

Shutter Speed Dial: Rotate to select speed (1s to 1/500s + B). Film Advance: Lever advances film and cocks shutter. Frame Counter: Shows remaining exposures (8 on 120 film). Shutter Release: Gentle pressure to activate. Focus Ring: Turn to align rangefinder images.

Focusing and Exposure

Focusing: Use rangefinder patch in viewfinder; turn focus ring until images align.

1. Set shutter speed based on light conditions and film speed.
2. Use external light meter for accurate exposure.
3. Compose using viewfinder bright-frame.
4. Focus using rangefinder patch alignment.
5. Press shutter release smoothly.

Tip: For critical focus, use rangefinder on high-contrast edges.

Lens and Viewfinder

65mm f/5.6 lens provides wide-angle coverage equivalent to 28mm in 35mm format.

1. Lens Construction: 4 elements in 4 groups
2. Aperture: Fixed f/5.6 (no adjustable aperture)
3. Minimum Focus: 1 meter
4. Viewfinder: Shows approximate 90% of actual image
5. Parallax Correction: Automatic compensation for close distances
6. Bright-frame: Shows field of view with crop marks

WARNING! Never touch lens surface; use lens cap when not in use.

Maintenance & Care

Store in dry, cool place with lens cap on. Clean with soft brush and lens tissue only.

CAUTION! Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners; avoid extreme temperatures and humidity.

Accessories

Lens hood, Filters (67mm), Lens cap, Soft case, Neck strap, Cable release.

Troubleshooting

Service: Contact authorized Fuji service center for repairs.

Note: This is a mechanical camera; no batteries required for operation.