FED - 2 variants
I am sitting on the lounge with a number of cameras laid out in front of me on the
coffee table. They are all FED-2 cameras, yet they don't look the same. On some, the
differences are hardly noticeable, while on others they are more evident. Interestingly,
there is no obvious progression from one type to another - the alternative features
occur in various combinations. Having said that, one can still - with some effort -
distinguish two basic versions; an 'old' and a 'new'. This classification is somewhat
arbitrary and is based on three things: the design of the film advance knob, the
presence or lack of a self timer, and the shutter speed values.
In the following I will point out the features that may vary from one instance of a
FED-2 to another. Since I base my presentation on only a small number of cameras, it
is quite possible that other variations also exist. I'd love to hear from you, if you
have a FED-2 camera with some peculiarity that I did not mention here.
The film advance knob is larger and includes a film type reminder dial on the newer
FED-2 cameras. (see picture...)
It seems that the older FED-2 cameras were built without a self timer. Also note,
that where there is a self timer, the flash connector socket has been moved to a new
position. (see picture...)
Some cameras are found with the older shutter speed number sequence (B, 25, 50, 100, 250,
500), while others come with the numbers commonly used today (B, 30, 60, 125, 250, 500).
The square viewfinder window in front might or might not have a raised frame around it.
(see picture...)
The bottom plate is either entirely flat, or it may have recesses near the latches.
(see picture...)
The engraved FED-2 logo is either in large Russian characters, or in both Russian and
western type. (see picture...)
There are two types of hard leather ever-ready cases I have come across. One of them
is typically darker brown and looks as if it preceded the other, which has a more
modern cut and accommodates the self-timer, apart from displaying other feature
differences. (see picture...)
Although this is not a property of the camera as such, but it is worth mentioning that
FED-2 cameras usually occur with two very slightly different Industar standard lenses.
Only the distance setting rings are dissimilar. (see picture...)
The Fed-2