Ricoh 500 G

Ricoh 500 G - Good Condition | Ultra-Compact Rangefinder with Sharp Rikenon 40mm f/2.8

The Ricoh 500 G (S/N: 05926652) is one of the smallest fully-featured 35mm rangefinder cameras ever produced. Despite its pocket-friendly dimensions, it offers a level of creative control usually reserved for much larger cameras, featuring both shutter-priority automation and full manual override. Equipped with a sharp Rikenon 40mm f/2.8 lens, it provides a versatile "slightly wide" perspective that is perfect for street photography and travel. The integrated coupled rangefinder ensures critical focus accuracy, while the robust metal construction gives it a premium, mechanical feel that modern plastic compacts lack. Whether you want to "point and shoot" or take full control of your exposure, the Ricoh 500 G is a masterclass in miniature engineering.

Key Features

• Sharp 40mm f/2.8 Rikenon lens (4 elements in 3 groups) for high-contrast images

• Coupled rangefinder for precise manual focusing through the viewfinder

• Shutter-priority automatic exposure with a full manual override mode

• Ultra-compact all-metal body that easily fits into a jacket pocket

• Mechanical leaf shutter providing quiet operation and flash sync at all speeds

• Integrated hot shoe and PC-sync socket for versatile lighting setups

• Large, tactile film advance lever and clear frame-counter display

Introductory Paragraph The Ricoh 500 G is a cult favorite among street photographers who value portability without sacrificing manual settings. This specific unit (S/N: 05926652) features a versatile 40mm focal length, often called the "perfect" perspective because it captures slightly more of the scene than a standard 50mm while remaining natural and distortion-free. Unlike many other compacts of its era, the 500 G remains fully functional even without a battery in manual mode, making it a reliable companion for long trips. Its mechanical simplicity and elegant design make it as much a pleasure to hold as it is to shoot with.

Condition Report Good condition. The camera body (S/N: 05926652) shows normal signs of light use and minor cosmetic surface wear consistent with its vintage age. The Rikenon 40mm f/2.8 lens is optically clear, free from fungus, haze, or significant scratches. The coupled rangefinder is bright and correctly aligned. The mechanical shutter fires accurately at all speeds, and the aperture blades are clean. The film transport and rewind mechanisms are smooth. The battery compartment is clean, and the light meter is responsive.

Specialist Note "The Ricoh 500 G is frequently compared to the Canonet or the Olympus 35RC, but many enthusiasts actually prefer the Ricoh for its ergonomics—the controls are exactly where you want them to be. What I love about this S/N: 05926652 is the leaf shutter; it is so quiet that you can take photos in a silent room without being noticed. The Rikenon glass is surprisingly punchy and holds its own against much more expensive optics. It’s the ideal choice for someone who wants a 'real' rangefinder experience in a body that doesn't weigh them down. It’s a tiny powerhouse that rewards a fast, intuitive shooting style."

What's Included

• Ricoh 500 G 35mm Rangefinder Camera (S/N: 05926652)

• Integrated Rikenon 40mm f/2.8 Lens

• Original Ricoh Lens Cap (if available)

• Original Wrist Strap

Technical Specifications

• Camera Type: 35mm Rangefinder Camera

• Film Format: 35mm (Standard 135 roll)

• Lens: 40mm f/2.8 Rikenon

• Shutter Speeds: 1/8s to 1/500s + Bulb

• Category: Cameras ▸ Compact Film Camera

• Battery Type: LR44 or zinc-air (for light meter only)