Bronica ETRSi

Type: 4.5cm x 6cm format lens shutter single-lens reflex camera, with interchangeable lens, film back, finder and focusing screen systems

Frame size: 42.5mm x 55.1mm (side/length ratio of 1:1.29 closely matches standard paper and reproduction sizes)

Film: 120 roll film (15 exposures); 220 roll film (30 exposures); 135 cartridge-loaded film; and Polaroid Land pack film. (Exclusive film backs for each film type.)

Lens mount: Exclusive four claw Bronica ETR bayonet mount

Lens diaphragm: Fully automatic instant reopening lens diaphragm action; equal-distant aperture scale graduations; depth of field previewing

Shutter: Electronic control SEIKO #0 between-lens leaf shutter; shutter speeds 8 sec. to 1/500 sec. plus T (time exposures); intermediate settings not possible; mechanical control setting 1/500 sec.

Film winding: Film winding crank; one complete forward revlution or ratcheted winding action

Mirror lock-up: Possible with mirror lock-up lever

Multiple exposure: Possible with multiple exposure lever; red warning sign in finder

Film back: Daylight loading interchangeable type, exclusive film backs for 120, 220 and 135 roll films and Polarod Land pack film

Finder: Interchangeable finder system; 94% of actual field of view (remains unchanged with different finders); choice of four optional finders, or Waist-Level Finder E, AE-II Finder E, Rotary Viewfinder E and Prism Finder E

Focusing screen: Interchangeable type. Standard screen has matte spot

Flash synchronization: X-setting (up to 1/500 sec.); auto-flash control based on direct light measurement at the film plane is possible with optional SCA System Adapter

Battery checking: Red-colored LED lights up within screen area when battery check button is depressed, if there is sufficient power; also doubles as shutter closing signal

Battery: Single 6-volt silver oxide or alkaline-manganese battery; also powers AE-II Finder E, when attached

ZENZA BRONICA ETRSi - BASED ON A VIVID AND IMAGINATIVE CREATIVE CONCEPT

The ETRSi fulfills the idealistic requirements of serious photographers looking for more vivid image reproductions. Extremely fine details and subtle nuances are all conveyed to the film. The 6 x 4.5cm size negative frame, which is about 2.7 times larger than the 35mm format, makes possible superb image quality, while the large-size viewing screen contains all vital information. This especially makes the format a valuable one for the professional photographer. The superior depiction of the ETRSi greatly increases the scope of the photographer in the pursuit of new image expressions.

Creative picture-taking can not take place, even when the powers of expression are rich if there are too many limitations placed on the photographer. In the case of the ETRSi however, special importance has been placed on this point and there is a high degree of system flexibility. Not only has acompact and light-weight camera been developed, based on Bronica's exclusive lens shutter system, but Bronica has advanced the use of electronics in various sophisticated functions, resulting in enhanced precision. And, the pursuit of greater holding stability has also lead to an improvement in handling ease. Furthermore, the very flexible "system" design of the ETRSi, in which lenses, finders, film backs and focusing screens can be freely exchanged, as well as a full range of valuable accessories makes it possible to customize the "system" to match the user's intention in picture-taking. These versatile functions in avery compact camera have been successful in greatly increasing the creative freedom in photography.

Image presentations of the highest quality has been the consistent goal of Bronica. It is also the reason for pursuing the large negative frame size, such as the SQ Series in the 6x 6cm format, the GS-1 in the 6 x 7cm format and now the 6 x 4.5cm format of the ETRSi. By adding greater handling ease to the medium format camera, which already boasts superior powers of portrayal, even more varied image presentation are now possible. And, to attain such high goals, no technical effort has been spared. This is a concept born from Bronica's basic thinking, that the creative power of the photographer is the most important element and must be extended as much as possible with the assistance of modern technology.

EVOLUTIONARY MULTI-FORMAT ZENZA BRONICA ETRSi - A FUSION OF QUALITY AND FLEXIBILITY AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL

For a more distinct expression of the photographer's intentions, there is coexistence of high image quality with the superior power of portrayal of the 6 x 4.5cm size along with excellent handling ease. This design concept is present with the ETRSi. An extremely high system capability has been attained, in which it is possible to choose acamera system suited for the photographer's individual purpose, by simply combining various system accessories with the main camera body. This has been made possible by acomplete fusion of technical knowledge gained by Bronica through thirty years as an exclusive maker of medium precision format cameras and the most advanced electronic technologies.

The Zenzanon-PE series lenses are based on the original design technology of the Zenzanon-PG lenses (GS-1; 6x7) and Zenzanon-PS lenses (SQ-Ai; 6x6), which are already noted as being among the sharpest in the world. The Zenzanon-PE lenses also take full advantage of MTF technology in their design, and have overall improvement in optical performance, such as resolving power, contrast, etc. Bronica's exclusive multi-layer coating increases optical transmittance, while further suppressing ghost and flare. Matched color fidelity and unadulterated color balance are faithfully conveyed from the original image. The electronically controlled Seiko #0 lens shutter offers exacting shutter speed capability from lens to lens, as the timer is in the camera body. In addition, the shutter synchronizes at all speeds up to 1/500 sec. Now, the ultimate in state of the art lens quality is available for each of the proven camera systems.

There is complete finder interchangeability to match requirements for a wide variety of image expressions, such as waist-level or eye-level view-focusing, even low angle shooting. Also available, aperture-priority auto-exposure with TTL-metering with the AE-II Prism Finder E, which, together with the great handling ease of the ETRSi, vastly increases the scope of image expessions possible. Manual exposure control is also present, thus providing the greatest freedom in overall image creativity.

Film back interchangeability makes possible the handling ease and wide variety of image expressions of the ETRSi. With one-touch exchanges, film type and frame size can match the photographic purpose or conditions. And, there is complete freedom in film back exchanges, even midway in the roll, or in daylight, all without limitations, while mistakes are also effectively prevented.

Simple, fast film winding operations makes it possible to concentrate on the subject, when following fastbreaking actions, with fast shooting action and handling ease greatly improved in the new, lightweight Motor Winder Ei.

One of the main characteristics of the medium format camera is the varied image expessions. Full of originality, these image can be obtained by utilizing the many photo technics which are available, such as multiple exposures, etc. Thus, in addition to the high image quality of the ETRSi, it is possible for the photographer to enjoy the full attraction of the medium format camera with varied new mechanisms.

Because of the importance of fl ash pho- tography for both professionals and advanced users, Bronica has developed an exclusive C.C.C. (Current Control Center) System for auto-flash operations, based on direct metering at the film plane, when coupled to SCA System electronic flash units from Metz (Mecablitz) of West Germany. The SCA System becomes effective when the SCA System Adapter (386) is used and also provides ready-flash signal and auto-checking confirmation in the viewfinder area.

Mechanical shock has been greatly reduced, by eliminating mechanical vibrations, while vibrations due to the reflex mirror action has been eliminated with a new mirror lock-up system. Vibration-free picture-taking is ideal when using aslow shutter speed, taking long telephoto shots and close-ups.

Multiple exposures, in which two or more exposures are made on the same frame, is an unique photographic effect which is most effective in the medium format because of the high image quality and large negative area. The multiple exposure lever of the ETRSi is not only easy to use but a red warning Signal appears in the finder when in use, to avoid mistakes.

Long shutter speeds can be set freely, to match the intentions of the user, thus increasing the possibilities for producing new image expressions. Long time exposures can be used for photographing merchandises, for producing unique photo images, or for special photographic effects coupled to the electronic flash, which means that new photo technics are possible with the ETRSi.

The ETRSi is based on the "system" design, with lenses, finders, film backs, winders, etc., used, as required, in combination with the main camera body for producing the "system" camera required by the user. And, a full range of versatile accessories are also available for extending the "system" camera to match photographic requirements.

TAMRON ANNOUNCES THE DISCONTINUATION OF BRONICA

ETR-Si, SQ-Ai, SQ-B and GS-1 CAMERAS

IN THE U.S. MARKET

SALES DECLINE IN THE DIGITAL AGE FUELS THE DISCONTINUATION

OF BRONICA ETR-Si, SQ-Ai, SQ-B and GS-1 PRODUCTS

Commack, New York, October 1, 2004 – Mr. Takashi Inoue, president of Tamron USA, Inc. announced the discontinuation of Bronica ETR-Si, SQ-Ai, SQ-B and GS-1 cameras and accessories as of October 31, 2004 in the U.S. market.

"Since the advent of digital photography, medium format sales have declined at a rapid pace. Imports today are just a fraction of what they were even two years ago," stated Inoue. "For Bronica, that slip has been faster since our core customer base, portrait and wedding photographers, has adapted well to digital SLR equipment."

"These photographers are now providing customers with a quality and cost-efficient product that has virtually eliminated their need for the higher quality results that medium format film or digital backs can provide," added Stacie Errera, Chief Marketing Officer. "While some customers are faithful to the format, the current sales volume and devastating purchasing forecasts cannot sustain the production of Bronica SLR products."

Tak Inoue stated that with the discontinuation of Bronica, the company is now in a better position to dedicate even more resources to developing optics for the digital age, particularly those for digital SLR cameras, currently the fastest growing segment of camera products according to industry analysts.

Customers may continue to purchase Bronica ETR-Si, SQ-Ai, SQ-B, and GS-1 products through 11/15/04 and qualify for the current Bronica SLR rebates. Tamron will post a list of dealers with substantial Bronica inventory and users are suggested to contact these dealers to purchase equipment. If the dealer does not have what the customer is looking for, Tamron USA, Inc. will make special accommodation sales to the customer directly at the current published Minimum Advertised Price less any applicable rebate. After 11/15/04, Tamron USA, Inc. will no longer sell any Bronica SLR inventory to customers. In order to claim a rebate for merchandise purchased through a dealer by 11/15/04, Tamron USA, Inc. must receive the redemption request by 11/30/04 to qualify. Purchases made after 11/15/04 at a dealer with inventory will not be applicable for any rebates.

The Bronica RF645 Medium Format Rangefinder will continue to be distributed and Tamron USA, Inc. will offer the current rebates on that product line.

Repair service will continue for seven years as is mandated by law. Any new Bronica SLR equipment purchased after October 31, 2004 — the official date of discontinuation — (through Tamron or any dealer by 11/15/04 or any dealer thereafter) will carry a one year limited warranty from date of purchase. However, all warranty and out-of-warranty repair service obligations will cease on October 31, 2011, regardless of purchase date.

The weight and dimensions are indicated for the camera body with the Zenzanon-PE 75mm F/2.8 lens mounted.