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Fujica GL690 / GM670 Professional - Complete Reference Manual

Camera Type: Professional Medium Format Rangefinder Film Format: 120 / 220 Roll Film Manufacturer: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd. Production Era: 1970s Source: Official Owner's Manual & Technical Documentation

Introduction

The Fujica GL690 Professional and GM670 Professional are improved versions of the popular Fujica G690BL. These professional cameras offer enhanced handling ease and dependability for sports, press, aerial, and general photography.

Key Innovation

These cameras feature the world's first Electron Beam Coated (EBC) lens system with the FUJINON AE 3.5/100mm lens, incorporating fully automatic exposure mechanisms directly in the lens itself.

Main Features

  1. Double-Image Focusing: Coupled range-viewfinder for quick, smooth focusing with automatic parallax compensation and changing field-of-view
  2. Two-Stroke Film Advance: Advances film and cocks shutter in one motion
  3. Dual Film Support: Accepts both 120 and 220 roll film
  4. Large Format Negatives:
  5. GL690: 2¼ x 3¼ in. (6 x 9 cm)
  6. GM670: 2¼ x 2¾ in. (6 x 7 cm)
  7. Interchangeable Lens System: Color-balanced FUJINON lenses from 50mm super wideangle to 180mm telephoto
  8. All-Speed Flash Sync: Between-the-lens shutter synchronizes at all speeds (M & X contacts, EBC AE lens X only)

Complete Specifications

Camera Body

Specification GL690 GM670
Type Interchangeable lens, coupled range-viewfinder camera
Frame Size 2¼ x 3¼ in. (6 x 9 cm) 2¼ x 2¾ in. (6 x 7 cm)
Effective Picture Area 86 x 82.6mm 56 x 69mm
Film Type 120 / 220 roll film 120 / 220 roll film
Frames per Roll (120) 8 exposures 10 exposures
Frames per Roll (220) 16 exposures 20 exposures
Dimensions 4⅝ x 7⅛ x 5¾ in. (116 x 183 x 145mm) including normal lens
Body Thickness 1½ in. (38mm)
Weight (with lens) 3.8 lbs (1,745g)
Weight (body only) 2.5 lbs (1,140g)

Film Advance System

  • Mechanism: Two-stroke film advance lever on body top
  • Functions: Advances film, cocks shutter, prevents double exposure
  • Multiple Exposure: Provision for intentional multiple exposure
  • Frame Spacing: Automatic

Viewfinder & Focusing

  • Type: Double-image focusing coupled rangefinder
  • Bright Frames: Luminous frames for 100mm (normal) and 150mm (telephoto)
  • Parallax Compensation: Automatic
  • Field of View: 95% at 1 meter, 92% at infinity
  • Magnification: 0.75x
  • Base Line: 67mm
  • Effective Base Line: 50.3mm

Frame Counter

  • Type: Automatic reset additive type
  • Reset: Automatically resets to "Start" when camera back is opened

Lens Mount

  • Type: Bayonet mount
  • Safety Lock: Provided for secure lens attachment

Complete Lens System Specifications

Standard Lens: FUJINON S 1:3.5 f=100mm

Specification Detail
Composition 3 components, 4 elements
Angle of View (GL690) 53°
Angle of View (GM670) 47°
Focusing Coupled range-viewfinder
Closest Focus 3.3 ft (1m)
Aperture Scale f/3.5 to f/32 with ½ stop click stops
Filter Size 72mm P=0.75mm
Shutter Seiko #0
Sync Contacts M & X
Shutter Speeds B, 1 to 1/500 sec in multiples

Automatic Exposure Lens: EBC FUJINON AE 1:3.5 f=100mm

Specification Detail
Composition 3 components, 4 elements
Coating Multilayer EBC (Electron Beam Coating)
Angle of View (GL690) 53°
Angle of View (GM670) 47°
Closest Focus 3.3 ft (1m)
Aperture Scale f/3.5 to f/32 with ½ stop click stops
Filter Size 72mm P=0.75mm
Shutter Seiko #0 fully automatic exposure electronic shutter
Shutter Speeds (Auto) 8 sec to 1/500 sec
Shutter Speeds (Manual) B, 8 sec to 1/500 sec
Film Speed ASA 25-800 with 1/3 stop click stops
Exposure Control Aperture-preferred automatic shutter speed control
Control Range EV 0.6-19 (ASA 100)
Photocell CdS
Receiving Angle 15° all around
Battery 6V silver oxide (Eveready No.544, Mallory 4G13)
Sync Contact X contact only
Warnings Overexposure, underexposure, camera-shake, battery condition

Complete Interchangeable Lens Lineup

Lens Focal Length Max Aperture Angle of View (GL690/GM670) Closest Focus Weight Filter
FUJINON SWS 50mm f/5.6 90° / 83° 3.3 ft (1m) 595g 72mm
FUJINON SWS 65mm f/5.6 75° / 68° 3.3 ft (1m) 610g 72mm
EBC FUJINON AE 100mm f/3.5 53° / 47° 3.3 ft (1m) 700g 72mm
FUJINON S 100mm f/3.5 53° / 47° 3.3 ft (1m) 605g 72mm
FUJINON TS 150mm f/5.6 36° / 32° 6.6 ft (2m) 913g 72mm
FUJINON TS 180mm f/5.6 30° / 27° 8.2 ft (2.5m) 1,025g 72mm

All lenses feature: - Seiko #0 leaf shutter - Shutter speeds: B, 1 to 1/500 sec - M & X synchronization (except EBC AE: X only) - 72mm filter thread (P=0.75mm)

Parts Identification & Functions

Top Plate Controls

Part Function
Film Advance Lever Two-stroke lever advances film, cocks shutter, prevents double exposure with automatic frame spacing
Shutter Release Button Located on both body top and front; front button for vertical shooting; both accept cable release
Exposure Counter Automatic reset additive type; resets to "Start" when camera back opens
Accessory Shoe For mounting wideangle/telephoto lens finders and accessories
Film Selector Sets number of exposures for 120 or 220 film

Film Selector Settings:

Film Type GL690 GM670
120 (2¼ x 2¼ in, 6 x 6cm) 4 exp 5 exp
120 (2¼ x 2¼ in, 6 x 6cm, 12 exp) 8 exp 10 exp
220 (2¼ x 2¼ in, 6 x 6cm, 24 exp) 16 exp 20 exp

Lens Controls

Part Function
Focusing Ring Rotates to adjust focus via coupled rangefinder
Aperture Selector Ring Sets lens aperture (f-stop)
Shutter Speed Selector Ring Sets shutter speed (B, 1 to 1/500 sec)
Flash Selector Switch Switches between M and X flash contacts
Lens Barrel Front 72mm threaded mount for filters and lens hoods

Body Front

Part Function
Range-Viewfinder Window Double-image focusing with luminous bright frames for 100mm and 150mm lenses; automatic parallax compensation
Lens Mount Bayonet mount with alignment marks (white/red dot system)
Lens Mounting Ring Rotates to lock/unlock lens
Lens Safety Lock Released by closing dark blind; push back to dismount lens
Neck Strap Stud Attachment point for camera strap

Camera Back

Part Function
Camera Back Lock/Spool Loading Key Erect and turn to open back; lift to insert take-up spool
R-S Button Set to "R" for shooting; set to "S" to release shutter when camera not loaded
Film Reminder Frame Insert film box cover as reminder of loaded film type
Tripod Socket Plate Standard tripod mount (Q-setter compatible for fast mounting)
Sync Terminal Flash synchronization connection
Shutter Curtain Set Key Closes shutter curtain when changing lenses or making multiple exposures
Shutter Curtain Release Key Push outward to open shutter curtain
Viewfinder Eyepiece Accepts eye cup, eyesight adjustment lens, right-angle finder, and accessory shoe
Film Loading Key Lift up to load film

Inside Camera Back

Part Function
Pressure Plate Reversible: one side for 120 film, other for 220 film; press in direction of arrow to release and flip
Film Chamber Holds unexposed film roll
Frame Aperture Defines exposed frame area
Film Start Positioning Mark Alignment guide for film loading
Exposure Counter Roller Advances frame counter
Take-up Spool Accepts exposed film
Pressure Spring Prevents film buckling

EBC FUJINON AE Lens Controls

Automatic Exposure System

Part Function
Shutter Speed/Battery Check Window Displays shutter speed set by automatic exposure system; also functions as battery checker
S.S.C. Button (Shutter Speed Check) Depress to see needle indicating automatic exposure shutter speed
B.C. Button (Battery Check) Check battery condition before shooting
Battery Chamber Cover Screw-on cover; holds one 6V silver battery (Eveready No.544 or Mallory 4G13)
Shutter Speed Selector Ring Set to "A" for automatic operation; set specific speeds for manual
ASA Speed Selector Ring Sets film speed (ASA 25-800 in 1/3 stop increments)
EE Window Keep clean and free of finger marks for accurate metering

Film Loading Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Camera Back

  1. Open Camera Back:
  2. Erect the Camera Back Lock/Spool Loading Key
  3. Turn in direction of arrow

  4. Back releases and swings open

  5. Select Film Type:

  6. Identify film type: 120 or 220
  7. Check pressure plate position
  8. One side marked for 120, other for 220

  9. If wrong side facing, press plate in arrow direction to release and flip

  10. Set Frame Counter:

  11. Use Film Selector on top plate
  12. Set to match your film type and desired frame count

Step 2: Load Film

  1. Insert Empty Take-up Spool:
  2. Lift Film Loading Key
  3. Place empty spool in right chamber

  4. Ensure it seats properly

  5. Insert Fresh Film:

  6. Place new 120/220 roll in left (film) chamber

  7. Orient so film pulls from bottom of roll

  8. Thread Film:

  9. Pull film leader across pressure plate
  10. Align with Film Start Positioning Mark

  11. Insert leader into slot on take-up spool

  12. Initial Wind:

  13. Turn take-up spool clockwise to secure film
  14. Ensure film is taut and properly threaded
  15. Watch that film doesn't slip from spool

Step 3: Close and Advance

  1. Close Camera Back:
  2. Swing back closed
  3. Ensure it latches securely

  4. Check that lock is engaged

  5. Advance to Frame 1:

  6. Stroke film advance lever twice (two-stroke system)
  7. Watch frame counter
  8. Continue until counter shows "1"
  9. Camera is now ready for first exposure

Shooting Procedures

Basic Operation Sequence

  1. Set Film Speed (for EBC AE lens):
  2. Rotate ASA Speed Selector Ring
  3. Match to your film's ISO rating

  4. Lock at 1/3 stop click stops

  5. Compose Image:

  6. Look through range-viewfinder
  7. See bright frame for your lens

  8. Frame subject within guidelines

  9. Focus:

  10. Look at center of viewfinder
  11. See double image when out of focus
  12. Rotate focusing ring
  13. Align double images until they merge

  14. Single sharp image = correct focus

  15. Set Exposure:

  16. Automatic (EBC AE lens): Set Shutter Speed Ring to "A", select aperture
  17. Manual: Set both aperture and shutter speed rings

  18. Check settings match scene requirements

  19. Advance Film:

  20. Stroke film advance lever (two strokes)
  21. This also cocks shutter

  22. Frame counter advances

  23. Release Shutter:

  24. Gently press shutter release button
  25. Use either top or front button
  26. Cable release recommended for slow speeds

Rangefinder Focusing Technique

Understanding Double-Image Rangefinder:

  • Out of Focus: Subject appears as two overlapping images
  • Focusing Action: Turn focusing ring to merge images
  • In Focus: Double images align perfectly into single sharp image
  • Accuracy: More precise than ground glass, especially in low light

Tips for Sharp Focus:

  • Focus with lens at maximum aperture for brightest, clearest rangefinder image
  • Use center of frame for focusing (where rangefinder patch is located)
  • Lock focus, then recompose if needed
  • Practice rangefinder technique for speed and accuracy

Lens Mounting & Dismounting

Mounting Procedure

  1. Align Dots:
  2. Locate red dot on lens mount
  3. Find white and red dots on lens mounting ring

  4. Align dots together

  5. Insert Lens:

  6. Fit lens straight onto mount
  7. Turn mounting ring clockwise (to the right)

  8. Continue until lens locks with audible/tactile click

  9. Verify Mount:

  10. Gently tug lens to confirm secure mounting
  11. Check that safety lock is engaged

Dismounting Procedure

  1. Close Shutter Curtain:
  2. Erect Shutter Curtain Set Key
  3. Turn to close dark blind

  4. This releases safety lock

  5. Release Lens:

  6. Push Lens Safety Lock back
  7. Turn mounting ring counter-clockwise

  8. Align dots on ring with dot on mount

  9. Remove Lens:

  10. Pull lens straight out
  11. Store with front and rear caps

Important Notes:

  • Always close shutter curtain before changing lenses
  • Never force lens mounting/dismounting
  • Keep mount surfaces clean and free of dirt
  • Change lenses in clean, dust-free environment when possible

Using the Depth of Field Scale

Each lens is equipped with depth of field markings on the lens barrel, showing the zone of acceptable sharpness at different apertures.

Reading the Scale

  1. Focus on Subject:
  2. Use rangefinder to focus precisely on main subject

  3. Note distance on focusing scale

  4. Check Depth of Field:

  5. Look at aperture setting you plan to use
  6. Find corresponding depth markings (usually paired lines)

  7. Read distances on focusing scale between these marks

  8. Interpret Results:

  9. Near limit: Closest acceptable sharpness
  10. Far limit: Farthest acceptable sharpness
  11. Everything between limits will be acceptably sharp

Hyperfocal Distance Technique

Purpose: Maximize depth of field from foreground to infinity

Method: 1. Set desired aperture (typically f/11 or f/16) 2. Focus lens to infinity 3. Note where infinity mark falls relative to aperture markings 4. Refocus so infinity falls at far depth limit for your aperture 5. Near depth limit indicates closest sharp distance 6. Everything from near limit to infinity is now sharp

Application: Excellent for street photography, landscapes, and documentary work where maximum depth is desired

Care & Maintenance

General Care Guidelines

Daily Use:

  • Keep lens cap on when not shooting
  • Use lens hood to protect front element
  • Avoid touching glass surfaces
  • Store in camera bag when not in use

Cleaning:

  • Lens Glass: Use lens tissue and proper cleaning solution; never use regular cloth
  • Body Exterior: Soft, clean cloth for painted surfaces
  • Interior: Use blower brush; never touch mirror or shutter curtain
  • Film Pressure Plate: Keep clean and free of debris

Storage:

  • Store in cool, dry environment
  • Use silica gel packets to control humidity
  • Remove batteries for long-term storage
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat

Lubrication & Service

Regular Service:

  • Shutter CLA: Every 5-10 years recommended
  • Rangefinder Calibration: Check periodically for accuracy
  • Focus Helicoid: Light lubrication only if sticky (professional service)

Warning Signs Requiring Service:

Problem Likely Cause Action Needed
Rangefinder images misaligned Impact damage, age Professional calibration required
Shutter speeds inaccurate/slow Old lubricant, wear CLA (Clean, Lubricate, Adjust) service
Light leaks on film Deteriorated light seals Replace foam seals (DIY possible)
Film advance stiff/sticky Lack of use, dry lubricant Exercise mechanism; professional service if persistent
Viewfinder dim/cloudy Fungus, haze on optics Professional cleaning required

Battery Maintenance (EBC AE Lens)

Battery Type: 6V Silver Oxide (Eveready No.544, Mallory 4G13)

Check Battery: 1. Press Battery Check Button (B.C.) 2. Observe needle in check window 3. If needle doesn't move or reading is weak, replace battery

Replace Battery: 1. Unscrew battery chamber cover on lens 2. Remove old battery 3. Insert new battery (observe polarity) 4. Screw cover back on securely 5. Test with battery check button

Battery Life: Replace annually or when meter becomes erratic

Shooting Techniques

Achieving Maximum Sharpness

Technique Recommendations:

  1. Use Tripod for Slow Speeds:
  2. Large 6x9/6x7 format magnifies camera shake
  3. Use tripod for speeds slower than 1/125 sec

  4. Cable release eliminates vibration from button press

  5. Optimal Apertures:

  6. Most lenses sharpest at f/8 to f/11
  7. Avoid both extreme minimum and maximum apertures

  8. Test your specific lens to find sweet spot

  9. Critical Focusing:

  10. Rangefinder is precise tool—use it carefully
  11. Focus on most important element

  12. Remember shallow depth of field at large apertures

  13. Minimize Vibration:

  14. Mirror lockup not needed (rangefinder design)
  15. Still use cable release for long exposures
  16. Wait for vibration to settle on tripod

Film Selection Recommendations

Film ISO Best For Characteristics
Kodak Portra 400 400 Portraits, general use Excellent color, fine grain, forgiving exposure
Kodak Ektar 100 100 Landscapes, architecture Ultra-fine grain, vibrant color, high sharpness
Ilford HP5 Plus 400 B&W general, documentary Classic tonality, very forgiving, pushable
Kodak Tri-X 400 400 B&W street, reportage Iconic look, great tonality, versatile
Ilford FP4 Plus 125 B&W fine detail Fine grain, smooth tones, excellent for enlarging
Kodak T-MAX 100 100 B&W technical work Finest grain, highest sharpness, requires careful development

Depth of Field Management

Large Format Challenges:

The 6x9 cm and 6x7 cm formats produce shallower depth of field than 35mm at equivalent fields of view. This requires different aperture strategies:

  • Portraits: f/5.6 to f/8 for selective focus; f/11 for group shots
  • Landscapes: f/16 to f/22 for front-to-back sharpness
  • Street: f/11 at hyperfocal for zone focusing
  • Architecture: f/16 to f/22 for detail and correction

Focusing Priority:

  • Focus is more critical than with smaller formats
  • Less room for error due to larger negative
  • Use rangefinder precision to your advantage
  • Double-check focus before important shots

Flash Photography

Flash Synchronization

Leaf Shutter Advantage:

All lenses (except EBC AE) synchronize at all shutter speeds, providing flexibility for fill-flash and action-stopping techniques.

Sync Contacts:

  • M Contact: For flashbulbs (bulbs require delay)
  • X Contact: For electronic flash (instantaneous)
  • EBC AE Lens: X contact only

Daylight Fill Flash:

  1. Meter scene for ambient light
  2. Set aperture for desired depth of field
  3. Camera (in auto mode) sets shutter speed
  4. Set flash for 1-2 stops underexposure for fill
  5. All shutter speeds sync—no limitation

Flash Techniques

Studio Flash:

  • Use sync terminal on camera body
  • All speeds available for creative effects
  • Balance flash with ambient as desired

Portable Flash:

  • Mount on accessory shoe or use bracket
  • Calculate exposure based on guide number
  • With EBC AE lens, flash automation may be available (depends on flash)

Accessories

Available Accessories

Accessory Purpose Compatibility
Sports Finder Quick framing for action GL690, GM670, G690BL
Close-up Lens Macro photography All models
Eyesight Adjustment Lens Diopter correction Same as ST701/ST801
Right-angle Finder Low-angle viewing Same as ST701/ST801
Lens Hoods Specific for each focal length Match to lens
Q-setter Quick tripod mounting plate All models
Accessory Shoe Flash mounting All models
Compartment Case Camera storage/transport All models

Troubleshooting Guide

Common Issues & Solutions

Viewfinder Problems:

Symptom Cause Solution
Double images won't align Rangefinder out of calibration Professional calibration service
Dim viewfinder Dirty optics, fungus Clean viewfinder windows; service if fungus
Bright frames missing Viewfinder malfunction Professional service required

Exposure Problems:

Symptom Cause Solution
All frames overexposed Shutter speed too slow Check shutter, CLA service
All frames underexposed Shutter speed too fast Check shutter, CLA service
Inconsistent exposure Shutter malfunction Professional CLA service
Meter erratic (EBC AE) Weak battery, dirty EE window Replace battery; clean EE window

Mechanical Problems:

Symptom Cause Solution
Film advance stiff Dry lubricant, debris Exercise mechanism; professional service if needed
Shutter won't release Not cocked, lens not mounted Advance film; check lens mounting
Frame counter stuck Mechanical failure Professional service
Light leaks on film Deteriorated seals Replace foam light seals

Pre-Shoot Checklist

Before important shoots, verify:

  • Film loaded and advanced to frame 1
  • Film type selector matches loaded film
  • Battery fresh (if using EBC AE lens)
  • Lens cap removed
  • Lens clean and free of fingerprints
  • Shutter cocked (film advanced)
  • Exposure settings appropriate for scene
  • Focus verified through rangefinder
  • Flash sync set correctly (if using flash)
  • Cable release attached (for tripod work)

Post-Shoot Care

After shooting session:

  • Advance film after final shot
  • Replace lens cap
  • Unload film if roll complete
  • Clean lens of any dirt or moisture
  • Store camera in bag with silica gel
  • Remove battery if storing long-term
  • Note any issues requiring service

Historical & Collecting Notes

Development History

The GL690 and GM670 represent Fuji's professional medium format rangefinder line from the 1970s golden age of press cameras. They competed with systems like Mamiya Press and Plaubel Makina, offering professional press and wedding photographers medium format quality with 35mm-style handling.

Current Status

Collectibility: - Sought after by film photographers for practical use - More affordable than German rangefinders (Plaubel, Linhof) - Often show professional use wear - Functional examples in demand

Parts Availability: - Limited availability of replacement parts - Professional service recommended over DIY repairs - CLA service should be performed by specialists familiar with Fuji rangefinders

Value Considerations: - Condition varies widely (press cameras often well-used) - Working condition more important than cosmetics - Lens selection affects value significantly - EBC AE lens models command premium

Technical Resources

Service & Repair

Recommended Service: - Clean, Lubricate, Adjust (CLA) every 5-10 years - Rangefinder calibration as needed - Light seal replacement (DIY possible) - Shutter speed calibration

Finding Service: - Few technicians specialize in Fuji rangefinders - General medium format camera repair shops may service - Shutter repair requires Seiko #0 experience

User Communities

  • Film Photography Reddit: Active medium format community
  • Medium Format Users: Online forums and groups
  • Rangefinder Forum: Dedicated rangefinder discussions

Reference Materials

  • Original Manual: Available from orphancameras.com
  • Service Manuals: Very limited availability
  • Repair Guides: Community-created resources

Conclusion

The Fujica GL690 and GM670 Professional cameras represent an excellent balance of professional features, image quality, and relative portability for medium format photography. The large 6x9 cm and 6x7 cm negatives offer exceptional detail and tonal range, while the rangefinder design provides fast, accurate focusing in all lighting conditions.

Though no longer in production, these cameras remain highly relevant tools for serious film photographers seeking professional-quality medium format results in a more portable package than traditional view cameras or SLR systems.

With proper care and periodic service, these robust mechanical cameras can provide decades of reliable service for press, portrait, landscape, and general photography applications.

Document Information

  • Source: Official Fujica GL690/GM670 Owner's Manual
  • Compiled: 2026-05-23
  • Purpose: Educational reference and user guide
  • Images: Located in images/fujica/ directory (32 pages from official manual)

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