Voigtlander Bessa-L Black, 25mm f4, Finder 10802 - 1748394

Voigtlander Bessa-L Black, 25mm f4, Finder 10802 - 1748394

This Voigtlander Bessa-L (Black), #00010802, is in great condition with minor handling wear. I rate it cosmetically a (9+). The camera is in proper working order; film advances properly, the shutter is accurate at all speeds, the meter and self-timer function, and the battery compartment is corrosion-free. The included Voigtlander 25mm f4 Snapshot-Skopar MC lens, #9940397, is in similar condition, also rated a (9+). The focus and aperture rings are smooth, the aperture functions properly, and the glass is clean and clear with no haze, marks, or fungus. There are a few faint specks of dust inside, but they do not affect image quality. The included Voigtlander 25mm viewfinder is also clear. This listing includes a front lens cap, but no rear lens cap or body cap. The camera uses either one (1) 3V battery or two (2) 1.5V batteries (not included). Please refer to the photos for details.

What Our Experts Think

• Ultra-Compact Design – The Voigtländer Bessa-L with the 25mm f/4 lens is an incredibly compact and lightweight rangefinder camera, ideal for street and travel photographers who value portability without sacrificing quality.
• Wide-Angle Coverage – The 25mm f/4 lens provides a wide-angle field of view, perfect for capturing expansive scenes, cityscapes, and environmental portraits, offering excellent sharpness even at its wide aperture.
• Simplified Photography – With its minimalist design and manual controls, the Bessa-L offers a pure, back-to-basics shooting experience for those who appreciate the art of photography without the distractions of modern electronics.
• High-Quality Optics – Despite its compact size, the 25mm f/4 lens delivers high optical performance, with sharp details, minimal distortion, and solid color rendition, making it a reliable choice for everyday photography.
• Built-in Finder – The included viewfinder ensures accurate framing for the 25mm lens, making it easier to compose your shots, even in dynamic or fast-moving environments.
• Durable and Functional – Constructed with solid build quality, the Bessa-L is a durable rangefinder, suitable for both casual and professional use. It’s a dependable, practical camera for those seeking a straightforward, reliable tool for their photographic needs.

Q&A

Q: What is the Voigtlander Bessa-L Black camera?
A: The Voigtlander Bessa-L Black is a compact rangefinder camera that is compatible with Leica M-mount lenses. It is designed for photographers seeking a lightweight, manual-focus camera with a classic, traditional feel. Its simple, functional design makes it a great choice for street and travel photography.

Q: What lens is included with the Voigtlander Bessa-L Black camera?
A: The Voigtlander Bessa-L Black comes with a 25mm f/4 lens, which is a wide-angle lens ideal for capturing landscapes, architecture, and street scenes. This lens provides a broader perspective compared to standard focal lengths, making it versatile for various types of photography.

Q: What is the aperture of the Voigtlander 25mm f/4 lens?
A: The Voigtlander 25mm f/4 lens features a maximum aperture of f/4, which is perfect for bright lighting conditions and outdoor photography. Although not as fast as some other lenses with wider apertures, f/4 allows for great depth of field control and sharpness in most daytime situations.

Q: Can the Voigtlander Bessa-L Black be used with other lenses?
A: Yes, the Voigtlander Bessa-L Black camera is equipped with an M-mount, making it compatible with a wide range of lenses from Voigtlander and other manufacturers, including Leica lenses. However, the camera does not feature a built-in viewfinder for all focal lengths, so additional external finders may be required for some lenses.

Q: Is the Voigtlander Bessa-L Black camera fully manual?
A: Yes, the Voigtlander Bessa-L Black is a fully manual rangefinder camera. This means that photographers need to manually set the focus, exposure, and shutter speed. The manual controls provide a more hands-on, deliberate approach to photography, making it ideal for those who prefer traditional methods.

Q: How does the 25mm f/4 lens perform in terms of image quality?
A: The 25mm f/4 lens is known for its excellent sharpness and minimal distortion. It's a great lens for wide-angle photography, delivering crisp images with good contrast. Its compact design also makes it easy to carry while still offering high-quality results in both color and black-and-white images.

Q: What type of photography is the Voigtlander Bessa-L Black and 25mm f/4 lens ideal for?
A: The combination of the Voigtlander Bessa-L Black and 25mm f/4 lens is perfect for street photography, environmental portraits, and travel photography. The wide-angle lens allows for capturing more in the frame, making it ideal for capturing candid moments, busy scenes, and landscapes.

Q: Does the Voigtlander Bessa-L Black camera include an electronic viewfinder?
A: No, the Voigtlander Bessa-L Black does not have an electronic viewfinder (EVF). It is a purely mechanical rangefinder camera, meaning that you will need to use the optical viewfinder to compose your shots. The viewfinder is ideal for manual focus, but for some lenses, external viewfinders may be necessary.

Q: What is the build quality of the Voigtlander Bessa-L Black?
A: The Voigtlander Bessa-L Black is built with high-quality materials, offering a solid, durable feel. Its classic rangefinder body is made of metal and features a clean, minimalist design. This makes it a great option for photographers who appreciate robust, long-lasting equipment.

Q: Is the Voigtlander Bessa-L Black a good choice for beginners?
A: While the Voigtlander Bessa-L Black is a fully manual camera, it can be a great choice for beginners who want to learn the fundamentals of photography and manual controls. Its straightforward design and easy-to-use controls allow for a learning experience without the distractions of automatic features.

Maintenance Tips

• Cleaning: Use a blower to remove any dust or debris from the lens and camera body. Clean the lens surface with a microfiber cloth and lens-safe cleaning solution. Avoid harsh materials that may scratch the lens or camera.

• Storage: When not in use, store the camera and lens in a dry, cool environment. A padded camera bag or case will help protect them from physical damage, moisture, and dust. Always use the lens cap when the lens is not mounted on the camera.

• Lens Cap Usage: Always keep the front lens cap on when the camera is not in use to prevent scratches and dust accumulation. Consider using a UV or clear filter for additional protection, especially in outdoor environments.

• Avoid Direct Sunlight: To prevent overheating and to protect the camera and lens coatings, avoid leaving the camera in direct sunlight for extended periods. Store it in a shaded area when not in use.

• Check the Finder: Regularly inspect the viewfinder for clarity and cleanliness. Gently clean it with a microfiber cloth to prevent smudges or dust from affecting your view. Be careful when handling the viewfinder as it's a delicate component.

• Focus Mechanism Care: Turn the focusing ring gently and avoid any sudden or forceful movements. Check for smooth focusing action and clean the focus ring area from time to time to prevent dirt buildup.

• Weather Protection: While the Voigtlander Bessa-L is generally well-built, protect it from extreme weather conditions such as heavy rain or snow. If it gets wet, dry it with a microfiber cloth immediately to prevent moisture damage.

• Battery Maintenance (if applicable): If your camera uses a battery, remove it when storing the camera for an extended period to prevent leakage and corrosion. Always use high-quality batteries.

• Regular Inspection: Periodically check for signs of wear, especially around the lens mount, shutter, and viewfinder. Ensure all moving parts, like the shutter release button and the film compartment, are functioning smoothly.