Ricoh 500 RF1979

History

Ricoh's 500-series rangefinders stretch back to the early 1960s with cameras like the Ricoh 500 and 500G. Through successive models -- the 500G, 500GX, 500ME -- Ricoh refined the package, adding features while maintaining the compact rangefinder form. The 500 RF arrived near the end of this evolution in 1979, by which point competitors had already begun releasing autofocus compacts (the Konica C35 AF appeared in 1977, the Canon AF35M in 1979).

The 500 RF represents Ricoh's answer that retained manual rangefinder focus -- arguably more precise for deliberate shooting -- while matching the AE convenience that consumers increasingly expected. Within a few years the market decisively moved to fully automatic cameras, and Ricoh's subsequent compact lines reflected that shift. The 500 RF stands as one of the last compact rangefinders with meaningful manual focus in the Japanese mid-tier market.

The camera relates closely to the Ricoh 500G (1971), which used a similar lens and body concept but with a fully manual shutter -- the 500 RF added auto exposure in the same basic package.

Why It Matters

The 500 RF is a competent representative of a transitional moment in compact camera design: the late 1970s, when auto-exposure was becoming expected but autofocus had not yet displaced rangefinder focusing for compact cameras. Photographers who preferred the precision and tactile engagement of rangefinder focus could use the 500 RF with the convenience of not having to set shutter speeds manually.

The Color Rikenon 35mm f/2.8 is optically capable -- Ricoh's Rikenon name indicated their better lens coatings -- and 35mm provides a useful field of view for street and documentary work. Today the 500 RF is a practical shooter for film photographers who want a compact, quiet camera with a genuine rangefinder and a moderate wide-angle fixed lens.

Lenses & Accessories

The 500 RF uses a fixed lens and does not accept interchangeable optics. The Color Rikenon 35mm f/2.8 includes a filter thread for standard screw-in filters. A hot shoe accepts electronic flash units; a PC sync socket provides additional compatibility. No dedicated accessories beyond the standard case and strap appear to have been marketed with the 500 RF.

Sample Photographers / Notable Use

• Used by amateur photographers in Japan and export markets seeking an affordable compact rangefinder with auto exposure in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
• Occasionally selected by street photographers today as a quiet, inconspicuous compact alternative to more expensive 35mm rangefinder options.

References

• Camera-Wiki: Ricoh 500RF