Ricoh GRD III

[chu]

Although I've only had it for 2 days, so far I'm loving this little camera, the build quality is incredible and the manual controls and customization on it are extensive. It's definitely something that will take time to learn...

Some Macro shots:

[nix_jetpilot]

mind sharing what are the differences between this and GX 200? you have both right sir?
thanks in advance!

[chu]

nix_jetpilot: I have the GRD III but I was deciding between both cameras. The GRD III comes with a 28mm f1.9 prime lens and has a 10mp 1/1.7 sensor. The GX200 has a zoom lens and a 12mp 1/1.7 sensor. The GRD III is a bit newer in the product lineup so some features are newer such as the 3" 920k screen and size-wise it's a bit smaller. Both cameras are extremely customizable with a pretty intuitive User Interface. It's my first Ricoh and so far I'm very impressed with the build quality and the Image Quality. I've been reading up on the GRD series (I to III) and it's considered a cult classic especially in Japan.

Reposting some photos I posted in the GX200 thread:

Taken with a GRDIII with some minor post processing in iPhoto, ISO 400, f 2.5 Vivid Color Setting:

[Myles]

My wife has the GRD II and I am very impressed with this camera. Excellent 28mm lens. Very user friendly, operation is straightforward, fast and intuitive, and the macro is amazing. I also love the b&w mode. We replaced the lens ring (originally black) with the one with red. I made a red leather strap to match it.



Before we "customized" it:


Here are some sample shots (macro):

[chu]

Myles: I like the look of your GRDII, it's very cool. Nice pics!

I was reading that in Japan, they have a custom service where they reconfigure your shutter button to the exact weight/stiffness you want. They also can change the markings in front to all black for a super stealth look.

[danielg]

If I didnt already own a GF-1 I would probably get the GRDIII

Great images guys

[Myles]

Thanks Chu and danielg! I'm planning to order the Voigtlander 28mm viewfinder (pending wife's approval hehe):

and mount it on the GR like this:


But if you want a really "guapo" GR, check this out:

[chu]

daniel: Wow, high praise coming from the master! Thanks Daniel!

Myles: I love the look with the voigtlander too, the Ricoh EV-2 isn't bad as well, but at $200 it's too pricey!

[kentamayo]

Nice cameras guys! I share Daniel's sentiments... if I didn't have the Yashica coming, I'd probably be getting one of these as well.

[nix_jetpilot]

Thanks Chu for the sharing the photos and Some of the differences of the cam. Took the plunge for the gx200 though. got an irresistable package! So hard not to consider it. But I must admit the GRD III is a great cam too! Charging the batt now... And tomorrow my yashica is coming... Getting ready for my trip on Monday! starting to forget that it's a business trip! hahaha