Cheap & Interesting Camera Finds: Affordable Film Cameras are Always the Goal

I spend a lot of time on eBay. In fact, I spend a lot on eBay.
I’ve been known to throw out to some people that I scroll eBay the same way a lot of people scroll social media. As a result I find heaps of deals.

If things were as usual, I would quietly purchase and play with a lot of these cameras or films I’ll be sharing. However, I’m not in an easy-to-ship-to place. That is for your benefit.

While I will not be sharing my secrets, I will be sharing some of the unique cameras or good deals I come across.

Bizarre & Intriguing: Fujita 66 SQ

I have never heard of Fujita.

Now I’m trying to find a way to get one shipped to me ASAP!

This camera is likely one that will appear much bigger in your hands than any picture can really tell you.

Check out the eBay listing for the Fujita 66 I found today.

Talking You Into It

Here’s the quick version of why I would be intrigued by this camera:
1) Waist Level View Finder (WLVF) is King.
2) Made in 1960 means it’s mechanical. Fully mechanical cameras will last you the rest of your life if you maintain them. They can be serviced much more easily than a camera with electronics.
3) Low Price! This camera is cheap. If something breaks, it can be repaired or replaced.
4) Unique look. It is a strange SLR shape, somewhat similar to Zenza Bronica or Mamiya cameras, but just a touch different. The name alone will be a conversation starter.

Here is why I would take a chance from this seller:
1) Clear Photos. They show plenty of photos from multiple angles and show emphasis on wear and potential damage.
2) Heaps of Reviews. They have 18.5k reviews, and are above 99% positive. Sellers like this will work with you before telling you to take the loss.
3) Consistency across listings. They have multiple posts that all have cameras marked as “for parts/not working.” Usually I would stay away from eBay listings like this, but so many of their cameras have this it seems like an easy way to list something as a non-professional. I would bet the camera works (maybe not perfectly). Even if some of the speeds are sticky, either a CLA or acceptance of a camera with character is worth the current price.

Talking You Out of It

Here is a few warnings:
1) It is listed as “for parts/not working” so it could need a full CLA or it’s a shelf piece.
2) It is not a common camera, so finding a place to CLA might not be fast and easy.