Fuji GX680 III Manual

The Fuji GX680 III is a professional medium format SLR camera system featuring a 6x8cm film format, interchangeable lenses, bellows focusing system, extensive camera movements (tilt, swing, shift, rise/fall), electronic shutter control, multiple exposure capability, and modular design with interchangeable film backs. Below are key sections for operation, features, specifications, controls, and maintenance.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Camera body with bellows, Interchangeable lenses, Film backs, Viewfinder system, Camera movement controls.

Feature	Description
Film Format	6x8cm medium format (56x76mm image area)
Lens Mount	Fuji GX bayonet mount
Bellows System	Extendable bellows for focusing and camera movements
Camera Movements	Tilt, swing, shift, rise/fall capabilities
Shutter	Electronic control with B, 8 sec to 1/400 sec
Viewfinder	Interchangeable waist-level and eye-level finders
Film Backs	Interchangeable 120/220 film backs
Multiple Exposure	Built-in multiple exposure capability
Battery	6V 4SR44 or equivalent for electronic functions
Mirror Lock-up	Mirror pre-release function

Camera Assembly

Assemble camera components securely before use.

1. Attach lens: Align red dots on lens and body, rotate clockwise until click.
2. Mount film back: Slide back onto camera rails, ensure locking lever engages.
3. Install viewfinder: Place finder on camera top, lock in position.
4. Insert battery: Open battery compartment, install 6V battery with correct polarity.

WARNING! Handle bellows carefully to avoid damage. Ensure all locks are secure before operation.

Basic Operation

Power on camera; check battery indicator in viewfinder.

1. Load film: Insert film back, advance to frame 1.
2. Focus: Use bellows extension knob for rough focus, fine-tune with focusing knob.
3. Set exposure: Adjust aperture and shutter speed according to meter reading.
4. Apply movements: Use tilt, swing, shift controls as needed for perspective control.
5. Take photo: Press shutter release button smoothly.
6. Advance film: Use film advance lever or motor drive.

CAUTION! Always support camera when extending bellows. Use tripod for stability.

Specifications

• Film Format: 6x8cm (56x76mm image area)
• Lens Mount: Fuji GX bayonet mount
• Shutter Speed: B, 8 sec to 1/400 sec (electronic control)
• Camera Movements: Rise/fall: ±25mm, Shift: ±25mm, Tilt: ±15°, Swing: ±15°
• Bellows Extension: 65mm to 145mm
• Viewfinder: Interchangeable (waist-level, eye-level, AE finder)
• Film Backs: 120 (10 exposures), 220 (20 exposures)
• Battery: 6V 4SR44 or equivalent
• Weight: Approx. 2,300g (body only)
• Dimensions: 195 x 185 x 145mm (body only)

Controls and Settings

Main controls: Shutter speed dial, Aperture ring, Focus knobs, Movement controls, Film advance.

Camera Body: Shutter release, Multiple exposure lever, Mirror lock-up, Depth of field preview, Battery check.

Lens Controls: Aperture ring (f/5.6 to f/32), Shutter speed dial, Cocking lever, Sync terminals. Movements: Rise/fall knobs, Shift knobs, Tilt locks, Swing controls. Film Back: Film advance knob, Frame counter, Dark slide slot, Back release lever.

Lens System

Interchangeable GX mount lenses ranging from 65mm to 500mm.

1. Remove current lens: Press lens release button, rotate counterclockwise.
2. Install new lens: Align red dots, rotate clockwise until click.
3. Cock shutter: Use cocking lever on lens if required.
4. Set aperture/shutter: Adjust according to exposure requirements.

Tip: Always cock shutter before changing lenses to prevent damage.

Camera Movements

Comprehensive camera movements for perspective and focus control.

1. Rise/Fall: Adjust vertical position ±25mm for architecture.
2. Shift: Lateral movement ±25mm for avoiding reflections.
3. Tilt: ±15° front standard tilt for Scheimpflug principle.
4. Swing: ±15° side-to-side movement for focus plane control.
5. Combined movements: Use multiple movements for complex corrections.

WARNING! Do not force movements beyond stops. Release locks before adjustment.

Film Handling

Supports 120 and 220 roll film in interchangeable backs.

1. Load film: Insert film roll, thread paper leader to take-up spool.
2. Advance to start: Close back, advance until frame counter shows 1.
3. Expose frames: Shoot and advance until final frame.
4. Rewind: After last exposure, continue advancing to roll up film.
5. Remove back: Pull dark slide, remove film back in subdued light.

CAUTION! Always insert dark slide before removing film back. Handle film in low light.

Care & Maintenance

Store in dry, cool place. Clean bellows with soft brush. Use lens tissue for optics.

CAUTION! Do not force any controls. Keep away from sand, dust, and moisture. Have professional service annually.

Accessories

Available accessories: AE finder, Motor drive, Extension tubes, Lens hoods, Filters, Carrying case, Tripod mount, Various film backs.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Shutter not firing	Battery/dead shutter	Check battery; cock shutter properly; ensure dark slide removed.
Film not advancing	Back malfunction	Check film loading; ensure back properly seated; try different back.
Blurry images	Camera movement/focus	Use tripod; check focus; ensure mirror lock-up used if needed.
Light leaks	Seals/bellows	Check bellows for holes; replace light seals; ensure back seated properly.
Movements stiff	Dirt/lack of lubrication	Clean movement tracks; apply minimal lubricant if needed.

Service: Contact authorized Fuji service center for repairs.

Support: Consult professional camera technician for complex issues.