I bought one for 250 last week, ignore the prices message the seller and discuss with him. Most listing have been on for very long and some will agree to low prices just to sell.
Just depends on who the shooter is. I mostly shoot the SX-70 in broad daylight, but there's plenty of people who require either a strobe or the autofocus to make any use of the camera in their daily life. I wasn't advocating against the sonar-less models.
@@narrativegundam4710 People seem to think that higher number = better camera :P Just get a 680 instead. There's no difference except time of production and price
Also, I'd always recommend just getting a 680 over the SX-70 if you want to take indoor flash photography, even though the MiNT flashbar is an option. SX-70 photos really shine in the bright sunlight during a beautiful clear day, and I've found through my dozens of packs that 600 film just can't capture the beautiful blue sky and light of day like the slower SX-70 can, but 600 shines more for low light and flash photography... I'm going on a tangent now. I LOVE POLAROIDS
It's true, that's definitely something to discuss in a future ep. I lovveeee the bright daylight/deep blue sky look the SX-70 can routinely deliver on. But after a certain hour the film is just unusable without the flashbar (not that I love the strobe look anyway). I guess the best course of action is to heck it all and own both 🤷🏻♂️
Update from the future; even on eBay the SLR 680 is now like $600. Personally I picked up a Sun 600 AF. I have a very nice mirrorless camera so if I want that high-fidelity shot I'll use that. For me instant film is more about that lo-fi, home-shot, aesthetic and because the 600 series is more identifiable as 'a polaroid'. I've had strangers stop me and ask me to take their picture or just start a conversation because I'm carrying the camera. I highly recommend photographers pick up an instant camera, it changes the way you think about how to shoot and it's a ton of fun.
Took a photo of my father with a folding SX-70. I forgot to consider the fact of the flash May reflect in the window he was sitting next to. But I'm kind of glad the flash reflected in the window it has an amateur look to it but it's exceptionally clear because of the glass lens.
Last week, I got the original SX-70 from Polaroid. Cameras just love dying on me, so a warranty is a must. Shot my first pack of film with it and the results were truly amazing. Even in situations where I thought I wasn't going to get a good picture, I got a spectacular ones.
Especially with cameras this old, it's huge having that warranty! So awesome that you're getting spectacular results already. What a beaut that camera is.
Thanks Ben for another a very good (comparison) professional made video. In 1978 I bought an SX70 model 2 (without autofocus) and some accessories, including the 1.5 telephoto lens. It still works. Even owns original flash bars and also the MiNT flash bar. The plastic covering is ready to be replaced. I am currently using the SLR680 a lot. Bought second hand from eBay with 1 test displayed photo and the remaining 7 photos still in the camera for approx. 200$ (converted from €). Extra 20 $ to replace the covering yourself. The SLR680 is an all in 1: flash that adjusts the angle according to the distance, flash can be turned off, autofocus that can also be turned off and the same excellent f8 lens from the SX70. The device is larger, but with a good bag this is not a real problem. Too bad that the telephoto lens of the SX70 does not fit, but that is not a dealbreaker. I consider purchasing the MiNT lens and filter set that includes a wide angle lens . Look forward to your next review (Instax Wide 500AF?).
I want to try that telephoto lens! Sounds like you got a good deal on the SLR 680, use that thing into the ground and love it all the same. I agree the slightly larger size of the SLR 680 is hardly much of an inconvenience whatsoever.
I went to my local record store down the strip mall from my local camera store with an instax mini in hand. The guy behind the counter noticed and said he had an old SX-70. I came back the next day and he gave it to me. I got a working Polaroid SX-70 Alpha 1 for free. Sorry.😊
That's awesome! It's crazy how you can find them at a yard sale for $5 and some people sell them for over $100. I'm always looking for them in unexpected places.
I love your enthusiasm for Polaroid! This video lead me to dig into my dad’s camera collection where I found his SX-70. I ended up purchasing the SLR 680 SE from Retrospekt Camera and I never looked back! Your video reignited my love for Polaroid! Each camera is special and has its niche and both are charming cameras! Thank you for your informative, entertaining and fantastic videos! Looking forward to the next video and learning more!
Polaroid 680 is the way to go, better in low light, integrated flash and you can just pop into a target or Best Buy to pick up a pack of film if your in pinch
Wish I jumped on board when this vid went out, nowadays both SX70s and SLR680s have SERIOUSLY increased in price. And most aren't even tested! At this point I'd rather pick up a professionally refurbed one for $650 and at least get a one year warranty.
Yeah I mean from a pure aesthetic perspective it's hard to beat that brown leather SX-70. I think the white finish with brown leather might be the most fire combo
I just got a sonar sx-70 from ebay for $75, it was listed as untested and potentially not working, I put a pack of 600 film in it because sx-70 isn't sold in stores, and it turned on right away. And its in great condition.
I recently got a manual focus sx-70 off eBay for $40. Seller said it was tested with an empty film pack and the motor works fine which it does. Slight cosmetic damage to the leather. It also had a number etched into the side of it. Pictures are very sharp.
I have 3 SLR680s :) 1 x SX70 Alpha One, and a SLR670S (which Im sure you will do a video for soon) The SRL680 is my favourite camera IF it was not some cumbersome and delicate to transport. The SLR670S is the sweet spot (as long as you are good with manual focusing)
@@InAnInstant hahaha obviously shoot with them. I would love to use the SLR680 more but its so damn delicate and repairs are so high if the sonar goes. Its the reason the SLR670S is the main driver. For portraits the SLR680 always win
If a person who typically shoots during daytime, had an sx-70 converted to 600 film, with or without sonar, are they missing out on a lot by not having the slr 680? And how do you travel with the 680? Would like to see a "what's in my bag" video for instant film day trips or longer. Thank you for everything you're doing. So informative and accessible!
I recently tore down my SX-70 Model 1 due to a motor issue, took the big bottom piece down (AKA the main body), and found out its actually not metal, it's polypropylene! It's actually plastic with chrome coating, as it was pretty trendy in that era to have chrome coating. I suppose they made the Model 2 of the SX-70s not chrome coated because it's bad for the environment to chrome coat. I took this information to Reddit, and this person who used to work for Polaroid confirms that it is just plastic with chrome coating. They said the only real metal is the frame where the film goes and the gear side plate. All internal parts are the same as a nonchrome model.
Correct! Thick chrome coating is metal, so the chrome plated SX-70s are often referred to as "metal," though the casing is predominantly plastic. It's more or less the same thing as a white Alpha, where you can sense that plastic feeling a bit easier, but reinforced on the chrome models.
@@InAnInstant I see, even the person who I talked to who said they used to work as the repair guy in Polaroid said they received angry complaints from customers who paid more for the Model 1 as they thought it wasn't plastic. Made me glad my camera broke, otherwise I wouldn't have uncovered these cool facts. Actually, I wanted to correct my finding as someone has corrected me and said it is not polypropylene but a special type of plastic called polysulfone that's strengthened with fiberglass. It's coated in copper, to which a nickel plating is applied, and finally the top layer of chrome. Thought this is interesting to know as an owner of an SX-70.
I figured all the photos I take on my iPhone will most likely never get developed. So I went with the slr 680. To capture and preserve the every day memories I share with my wife and kid. I do hope Polaroid makes a modern day slr.. but gotta get my head outta the clouds 🤧
I love where you're head's at (even if it's in the clouds). That iPhone stuff will disappear into a different cloud (Apple's very reliable iCloud service) and there's nothing like holding that tangible instant print.
I bought my SX-70 for five whole Canadian dollars from an 80-year-old man who wore overalls but no shirt. Needed a new motor but it still comes to less than what I'd pay on eBay for a working on even factoring in getting it fixed.
Hot DAMN you robbed that old man blind. You should have at least traded your shirt so he could put it on underneath his overalls. Now that's a fair deal 😂
Great video! I'm really enjoying your channel I'm surprised you didn't mention the size difference. I love the form factor of the original SX-70. Folded it fits perfectly into a back or coat pocket, and I can slip a flash bar into another pocket without a problem. The Sonar models and the 680 are just a little bit too long for pocket carry. While the 680 makes up for it by shooting 600 film and having the integrated flash + AF, I've always found the AF alone isn't reason enough to justify the extra length of the Sonar models.
I have a few original (Polatronic) and 3rd party SX-70 add on flash units from the 60s & 70s and they are WAY more powerful than the Mint flash bar. For the 680 a smaller flash will do but the SX-70 needs a much stronger flash due to the low ISO I never found the Mint flash bar strong enough.
Both are great cameras, I prefer a converted SX70 because I never trust the flash and autofocus unit on top of the 680... It feels so wobbly. But it is probably unfounded fear since they are very well build and I never had one break on me. The question I wonder is if you can see a real difference between SX70 (ASA 160) and 600 (ASA 640) film. The images are too small to spot grain difference most of the time but in terms of color or susceptibility to errors I sometimes think SX70 film is better. My mail to Polaroid was answered that there is no real difference. Do you have any more infos on that? I might to a 1:1 comparison on Instagram in the future with my SLR670s... :)
First off, love your channel and looking forward to more new content! If you already have an autofocus SX-70 and mint flash bar 2 and can deal with inconvenience of using an ND filter to shoot 600 film, are there any other advantages of upgrading to the 680? In other words do you get better/more consistent results (especially in low light) with the 680?
I have a 690 and the newer Polaroid film doesn't work well in it ... found out it's something about the rollers ... still love and use my SX70 Sonnar!!!
I was just wondering do you find the metal srl cameras to be sturdier than the all-plastic ones or is it more of a decorative element? If you had to choose between 2 SX-70 I mean. Also do you know the difference between the 680 and the 680 SE, if there is any? Thank you for the video !
Very cool stuff as usual! Here's my story about these cameras: I started out with a Polaroid 1000 and it wasn't very fun but I took it with me to Japan to take a few shots... until I stumbled upon a glorious SX-70 Alpha 1 in a Tokyo camera store... I couldn't resist and bought it. Needless to say, I was blown away as soon as I started looking through the viewfinder, and even though I now own about a dozen Polaroid SLRs, it's still one of my favourites. Because of the low ASA, I mostly use it during the summer and outside, and the rest of the time it's mostly the SLR 680. Aaand I just love "explaining"' these amazing cameras to people, especially the sonar AF, always interesting to bring up :)
I'm the same way, people love to ask and I love to answer. Also, I love that your camera is "from Tokyo" - it's cool to think about the journeys of all these used cameras. Where they have been, who loved them, who decided to sell them and give them new life. All part of the lifestyle!
I got my first instant camera, the SX-70 (model 2 in black plastic, without sonar) with some cracked leather. I'm used to manual focus and I like mine because i can just put it in my pocket or around my sholder when i get a strap. To anyone looking for something different to shoot try closeups as in my opinoin it realy shines there!
Congratulations Ben on the 1.50K subscribers *I know we talked about this before but* I'm just geting started into instant photography *but* Is it the *wisest* choice to go with an SLR 680 just because it's "simple to use"? Also I have another stupid *question* What about the SLR 680/SX-70 mint lens set and is it worth it?
Thanks Jamie! The SLR 680 and SX-70 aren't great because of their simplicity, they are great because of their lenses, SLR design, and imaging capabilities. It's a lot to spend if you're just starting out, but in the grand scheme of the photography industry all of this is actually fairly inexpensive. Just depends on whether Polaroid is worth it to you in your everyday life. And as for the lens sets, yeah they're great if you want what they're offering.
@@InAnInstant Well I'll try to buy from Polaroid because I know it's expensive but I'm supporting the *Brand* And after thinking about it slr 680 In the Photography world is quite cheap But I'm *sad* because they Purge the sx-70/slr 680 Travelling case when they are re-branded Into Polaroid And I can't seem to find a neck strap for sx-70/slr 680 What's with the SE blue button variant of the SLR 680 Alright I'm going to go a little bit off topic *but is it just me who thinks that Fuji basically tricked Instagram girls into thinking that a Fuji Instax is a Polaroid* Because it's kind of cringe ._. bty 69 likes nice
@@Jamie-ux2lw I have the Polaroid Fragment SLR 680 bag which, to my knowledge, is the only true SLR 680 case. The others Polaroid had sold were the length of an SX-70 without the flash bar, so that wouldn't fit the 680 or the SX-70 with the Mint bar on it. At any rate, both are sold out so it doesn't matter lol. In terms of straps, that's really the way to go anyway if you're bopping around. The cameras have universal strap mounts, so there's no need to get anything specific for them. Just get a strap that has two fastener ends. The blue button on my SLR 680 is because it is the Sears edition of this camera. Nothing different about its functionality but I love the Sears edition concept.
@@InAnInstant you spent *€1,900* or $ 2,051.05 on the Polaroid Fragment SLR 680 I want to say you're a *mad lad* but I think the proper terminology would be a die-hard *"and we respect the diehards"* I would say questions but I don't know except what the hell??? is the difference between just a normal SLR 680 it's *expensive* I've only found one promotional video and nothing else on it By the way if you didn't hear the news Elon Musk named his baby some *weird symbols* like " X Æ A-12. "
Lol I bought the bag, not the camera! That cam was way overpriced. However, regardless we do respect the die-bards and if someone wants to spend $2000 to Polaroid I look at that as basically a donation to the company and more power to them.
I swear by the Lenmar ps-7 flash if you can get your hands on one. They seem way more stable when mounted to the camera than the more modern options offered.
Well, in south korea, the 'working/guaranteed' SLR690 is about 150$. Annnyway, it is sold at the underground market. Not the 'weedy' market. The market, constructed by the local government in underground.
I don't agree that the 680 is better, sx-70 film has much better colours and the emulsion is much stronger/better for lifting or manipulation than 600. It probably is the better option if you like, taking pictures inside at parties or whatever but, if you are outside in good sunlight you don't need a flash with any Polaroid camera and most you can compensate the exposure during the day to correct. Ok, evenings in the garden aren't going to work, but original or mint flash bars will get you the good photos, another great video just prefer the original sx-70 (or at a push the sonar) the myself 👍🏻
Agreed my guy! LOVE the SX-70 color in broad daylight, and that's how I use it 99.9% of the time. Emulsion is looking as bold as ever with the 2020 batch.
I've been an instax square shooter for the past year (i absolutely love that film format/colors/quality) and it has revived my passion for photography big time! I'm now considering getting a Polaroid as an addition, and i gravitate towards sx70, it seems here in Germany where I'm at the moment they are fairly available in the used market for around 100-150€. I have a couple of questions :i woulf mainly use it in broad daylight to try and make some beautiful/artsy shots (if i want the flash party looks I'd just go for the cheaper film on the instax) therefore flash isn't a must for me. That considered when not using flash in daylight which film performs better /has better colors and contrast between the sx70 and the 600 type? And ad far as the autofocus in the sx70 is it pretty good ? Would it be a deal breaker if it is a non af version? (I'm used to shooting film and manually focus)
If you're using it in broad daylight only, the SX-70 is great. There is a difference between SX-70 and 600 film, but that's not a major factor since you can use 600 film in an SX-70 with Polaroid ND filters. So, you can use either film (both have their merits, SX-70 film is more saturated/contrasty). And yeah the autofocus is astounding. Whether or not you need it is personal preference (I do, but if you're used to MF you prob don't).
To me neither of them are the 'best polaroid'. :) Now I know that these models have the most features, but I own both the SLR 680 and a few Sonar models, and my problem with them is the form factor. They're just too damn long and plasitcky! I don't feel comfortable taking them out shooting. A huge increase in fragility for a small upgrade in convenience. I usually prefer the original SX-70 and the mint flash-bar-combo.
They are longbois, but with a strap on the length is inconsequential. I like the compact flash-less SX-70 as much as the next guy, but when you've got it strapped the extra 3 inches aren't even noticeable. I think you can safely call these the best, even if they might not be for everyone.
Hey, Ben! I am going to send my SLR 680 in for restoration but I'm not sure where I should send it. Do you recommend Retrospekt or BrooklyFilmCamera? Both are the same price and I know Kyle is the homie, but what about Retrospekt? The unboxing vids I see of them are above and beyond in terms of packaging. Pretty boxes are nice but which company repairs cameras the best?
Hey Ben! I don't think either company repairs cameras better, necessarily. You can put your trust in either and really I don't think you can go wrong. Follow your heart on this one!!
@@InAnInstant I ended up going with the BFC. It was long and hard, but in the end the BFC was just the right fit for me. Plus, BFC has a year long warranty vs Retrospekt's 90 day warranty. "So I got that going for me...which is nice." -Bill Murray
Hello, I just got a Polaroid sx 70 sonar modified to take 600 film but the pictures aren’t turning out. I can’t seem to get the pictures to turn out like they are either too dark or too bright. And they’re not in focus. The dark ones are more in focus than the brighter ones. But I don’t understand why they aren’t coming out. My 680 seems to work so much better and I don’t understand why
Hard to say really, I think you either just need to feel out the way your camera’s light meter behaves (every one is little different) and adjust from there. As for the focus, you should be able to see that through the viewfinder.
Man, I ADORED my SLR 680, but then one day.. the mirror came detached inside :( And it seems like basically nowhere will repair it - the one place I found in the UK quoted me £350 which is just insane. I could buy another for much less than that... but then there's no guarantee that won't happen again. It's such a pity - I wish someone was refurbishing these for less, but I understand they're massively complex (and to fix the mirror you have to strip down the ENTIRE camera) so I guess it is what it is! So plz, Polaroid - a new glass-lens SLR (this time with full manual controls on the camera) isn't a big ask, surely?
Oh nooooooo. Yeah the repair costs for these things (SX-70 included) are often bonkers high. In most cases it's definitely cheaper to just buy another one unless there is a tremendous sentimental value you have to the camera. Agreed with your assessment that the refurb cost is justified given the man hours required to fix these damn things, not to mention it being a VERY specialized trade that like a handful of people do professionally.
Try this person. They specialize in polaroid and few people in the facebook sx-70 user group i'm in have been happy with his work www.ebay.co.uk/usr/polanthropy edit: and i wouldn't worry about it happening again soon. It's the kind of glue they used that failed over the last 40 years :) it's not unheard of and not a common fault in the older sx-70s
tacticaltome Thanks for the tip - funnily enough I came across him a few weeks ago, and have since had my SLR680 repaired by him! So stoked to have it working again and his service was brilliant, would definitely recommend him!
Just buy the good old SX70, you can find used ones for 200 bucks on eBay, and just buy a flash bar with it. I bought mine in pristine condition with 2 packs of film for $210. Autofocus to bulky! just do it by hand!
That's exactly what i've advocated here but with a different view on the autofocus. Some people may shoot in daylight-only which gives you the luxury of shooting fairly easily with manual focus, but just as many people (or more) shoot with Polaroids indoors, at night, and in much lower light situations, where sonar AF is a borderline miracle worker. If you're in need of that feature, you also need the flash, and the SLR 680 has you covered on both fronts.
Hello! New subscriber here! I love your videos, your knowledge and the quality of your videos are top notch! I recently purchased the SLR 680, would appreciate a video on this camera to know how to get the best out of it. Thanks! :)
Prices for recently sold SLR 680s on eBay range from $200-$400 USD, but certainly no where near 1000. Sellers who list something that high are not listing it for the going rate, you could buy a fully refurbished one for way less than that.
@Christian A. Ramirez In the last 10 days, seven of them have sold for around $175-$325, so I'd just keep an eye out. There's one up for $350 rn, not great but certainly not $3500 😂
Hell yeah mate! Great camera and ya gotta love the Instax Square. That format tends to be a little smaller than I'd like but it has it's time and place in my arsenal for sure.
Oh yes the beauties The kings The golden childs Best polaroids cameras Also is one step 2 full plastic? To be honest i don't know I really wanna know becuse i have it one
If y'all want a sweet looking and great working SLR 680, check out UpcycledClassics on Etsy. Got my camera from him and I can't recommend him enough. His customer service is also second to none
@@InAnInstant Nah... 690's internal circuit was redesigned by the Japanese and all we know Japanese produced best cameras in the 90s. Thanks to this 690 has fastest sonar auto-focus among the entire sx-70 line.
![Polaroid Sun 660 vs Impulse AF Showdown - Best Entry-Level Cameras [Instant Review]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/jLCtb9mkmko/mqdefault.jpg)
![Polaroid Sun 660 vs Impulse AF Showdown - Best Entry-Level Cameras [Instant Review]](/img/tr.png)
I cannot express in words how much I wish an SLR680 SE was $250 on eBay in 2023 (modifying in December 2023 up to close to $500)
I bought one for 250 last week, ignore the prices message the seller and discuss with him. Most listing have been on for very long and some will agree to low prices just to sell.
No autofocus module on early SX-70's is a pro factor for me. Makes it more portable and the camera just looks better to me.
Just depends on who the shooter is. I mostly shoot the SX-70 in broad daylight, but there's plenty of people who require either a strobe or the autofocus to make any use of the camera in their daily life. I wasn't advocating against the sonar-less models.
@@InAnInstant I want a sleep 690 but I am too poor.😭😭
@@InAnInstant slr 690
@@narrativegundam4710 People seem to think that higher number = better camera :P Just get a 680 instead. There's no difference except time of production and price
Also, I'd always recommend just getting a 680 over the SX-70 if you want to take indoor flash photography, even though the MiNT flashbar is an option. SX-70 photos really shine in the bright sunlight during a beautiful clear day, and I've found through my dozens of packs that 600 film just can't capture the beautiful blue sky and light of day like the slower SX-70 can, but 600 shines more for low light and flash photography... I'm going on a tangent now. I LOVE POLAROIDS
It's true, that's definitely something to discuss in a future ep. I lovveeee the bright daylight/deep blue sky look the SX-70 can routinely deliver on. But after a certain hour the film is just unusable without the flashbar (not that I love the strobe look anyway). I guess the best course of action is to heck it all and own both 🤷🏻♂️
@@InAnInstant The correct answer is to own both, then sell both and buy a MiNT SLR-670x
YES...this is our reality
Update from the future; even on eBay the SLR 680 is now like $600. Personally I picked up a Sun 600 AF. I have a very nice mirrorless camera so if I want that high-fidelity shot I'll use that. For me instant film is more about that lo-fi, home-shot, aesthetic and because the 600 series is more identifiable as 'a polaroid'. I've had strangers stop me and ask me to take their picture or just start a conversation because I'm carrying the camera. I highly recommend photographers pick up an instant camera, it changes the way you think about how to shoot and it's a ton of fun.
Took a photo of my father with a folding SX-70. I forgot to consider the fact of the flash May reflect in the window he was sitting next to. But I'm kind of glad the flash reflected in the window it has an amateur look to it but it's exceptionally clear because of the glass lens.
Last week, I got the original SX-70 from Polaroid. Cameras just love dying on me, so a warranty is a must. Shot my first pack of film with it and the results were truly amazing. Even in situations where I thought I wasn't going to get a good picture, I got a spectacular ones.
Especially with cameras this old, it's huge having that warranty! So awesome that you're getting spectacular results already. What a beaut that camera is.
I believe that both cameras, even though expensive can give you a pretty amazing photo because of the glass lense and the film qualify by itself
Indeed!
Thanks Ben for another a very good (comparison) professional made video. In 1978 I bought an SX70 model 2 (without autofocus) and some accessories, including the 1.5 telephoto lens. It still works. Even owns original flash bars and also the MiNT flash bar. The plastic covering is ready to be replaced. I am currently using the SLR680 a lot. Bought second hand from eBay with 1 test displayed photo and the remaining 7 photos still in the camera for approx. 200$ (converted from €). Extra 20 $ to replace the covering yourself. The SLR680 is an all in 1: flash that adjusts the angle according to the distance, flash can be turned off, autofocus that can also be turned off and the same excellent f8 lens from the SX70. The device is larger, but with a good bag this is not a real problem. Too bad that the telephoto lens of the SX70 does not fit, but that is not a dealbreaker. I consider purchasing the MiNT lens and filter set that includes a wide angle lens . Look forward to your next review (Instax Wide 500AF?).
I want to try that telephoto lens! Sounds like you got a good deal on the SLR 680, use that thing into the ground and love it all the same. I agree the slightly larger size of the SLR 680 is hardly much of an inconvenience whatsoever.
Man for a channel of your size you make absolutely amazing content. Keep it up and this channel will for sure grow
Thank you Frank! I hope so, love this community though no matter what size the channel’s at 🔥
These are two Polaroids I want and don’t have.... and now I want them more,, they are true works of art.... great vid Ben!!!!
Thanks Ralph!
This channel got me into instant film and looking back almost a year later is so incredible
Damn that's awesome Dylan!
I went to my local record store down the strip mall from my local camera store with an instax mini in hand. The guy behind the counter noticed and said he had an old SX-70. I came back the next day and he gave it to me. I got a working Polaroid SX-70 Alpha 1 for free. Sorry.😊
What!!! That's so awesome! Honestly sounds like a beautiful human experience, what a gift. Enjoy that beaut!
That's awesome! It's crazy how you can find them at a yard sale for $5 and some people sell them for over $100. I'm always looking for them in unexpected places.
I bought a Sonar Sx-70 for €80 last week and works like charm,and am obsessed with it!
I love your enthusiasm for Polaroid! This video lead me to dig into my dad’s camera collection where I found his SX-70. I ended up purchasing the SLR 680 SE from Retrospekt Camera and I never looked back! Your video reignited my love for Polaroid! Each camera is special and has its niche and both are charming cameras! Thank you for your informative, entertaining and fantastic videos! Looking forward to the next video and learning more!
Polaroid 680 is the way to go, better in low light, integrated flash and you can just pop into a target or Best Buy to pick up a pack of film if your in pinch
Slr 680s are going for $500-$800+ dollars on eBay now😢
if your lucky. the refurbished ones are a 1000$ to buy. meanwhile i got a working sonar for 120$
Wish I jumped on board when this vid went out, nowadays both SX70s and SLR680s have SERIOUSLY increased in price. And most aren't even tested! At this point I'd rather pick up a professionally refurbed one for $650 and at least get a one year warranty.
Honestly, I'd buy SX-70 just for the brown/silver color scheme, that's the finest instant camera design I've ever seen
Yeah I mean from a pure aesthetic perspective it's hard to beat that brown leather SX-70. I think the white finish with brown leather might be the most fire combo
Just found my first 680, what a beautiful camera. I have a lot to learn, but I love shooting it. Love your vids man, learning a lot.
Cherish that thing!! Thank you Adam ♥️
680 gang!! What was the difference with 680 and 690? Edit: didn't watch to the end!
Woah, off IS an iconic setting...
It really is, easily one of the most well known settings.
I just got a sonar sx-70 from ebay for $75, it was listed as untested and potentially not working, I put a pack of 600 film in it because sx-70 isn't sold in stores, and it turned on right away. And its in great condition.
I recently got a manual focus sx-70 off eBay for $40. Seller said it was tested with an empty film pack and the motor works fine which it does. Slight cosmetic damage to the leather. It also had a number etched into the side of it. Pictures are very sharp.
So awesome, congrats on the acquisition Robert!
I have 3 SLR680s :) 1 x SX70 Alpha One, and a SLR670S (which Im sure you will do a video for soon)
The SRL680 is my favourite camera IF it was not some cumbersome and delicate to transport.
The SLR670S is the sweet spot (as long as you are good with manual focusing)
Do you just line them up and stare at them all day?
@@InAnInstant hahaha obviously shoot with them. I would love to use the SLR680 more but its so damn delicate and repairs are so high if the sonar goes. Its the reason the SLR670S is the main driver. For portraits the SLR680 always win
If a person who typically shoots during daytime, had an sx-70 converted to 600 film, with or without sonar, are they missing out on a lot by not having the slr 680? And how do you travel with the 680? Would like to see a "what's in my bag" video for instant film day trips or longer.
Thank you for everything you're doing. So informative and accessible!
SX-70s go for like $200+ now in working condition and SLR 680s are like $400+ in good working condition.
I recently tore down my SX-70 Model 1 due to a motor issue, took the big bottom piece down (AKA the main body), and found out its actually not metal, it's polypropylene! It's actually plastic with chrome coating, as it was pretty trendy in that era to have chrome coating. I suppose they made the Model 2 of the SX-70s not chrome coated because it's bad for the environment to chrome coat. I took this information to Reddit, and this person who used to work for Polaroid confirms that it is just plastic with chrome coating. They said the only real metal is the frame where the film goes and the gear side plate. All internal parts are the same as a nonchrome model.
Correct! Thick chrome coating is metal, so the chrome plated SX-70s are often referred to as "metal," though the casing is predominantly plastic. It's more or less the same thing as a white Alpha, where you can sense that plastic feeling a bit easier, but reinforced on the chrome models.
@@InAnInstant I see, even the person who I talked to who said they used to work as the repair guy in Polaroid said they received angry complaints from customers who paid more for the Model 1 as they thought it wasn't plastic. Made me glad my camera broke, otherwise I wouldn't have uncovered these cool facts. Actually, I wanted to correct my finding as someone has corrected me and said it is not polypropylene but a special type of plastic called polysulfone that's strengthened with fiberglass. It's coated in copper, to which a nickel plating is applied, and finally the top layer of chrome. Thought this is interesting to know as an owner of an SX-70.
I found a Slr 680, seems to have film stuck in it, red light comes on up the top when opened, still cool though!
Have both, love both!
I figured all the photos I take on my iPhone will most likely never get developed. So I went with the slr 680. To capture and preserve the every day memories I share with my wife and kid. I do hope Polaroid makes a modern day slr.. but gotta get my head outta the clouds 🤧
I love where you're head's at (even if it's in the clouds). That iPhone stuff will disappear into a different cloud (Apple's very reliable iCloud service) and there's nothing like holding that tangible instant print.
Sx 70 has an incredible design
The best!
I bought my SX-70 for five whole Canadian dollars from an 80-year-old man who wore overalls but no shirt. Needed a new motor but it still comes to less than what I'd pay on eBay for a working on even factoring in getting it fixed.
Hot DAMN you robbed that old man blind. You should have at least traded your shirt so he could put it on underneath his overalls. Now that's a fair deal 😂
Great video! I'm really enjoying your channel
I'm surprised you didn't mention the size difference. I love the form factor of the original SX-70. Folded it fits perfectly into a back or coat pocket, and I can slip a flash bar into another pocket without a problem. The Sonar models and the 680 are just a little bit too long for pocket carry. While the 680 makes up for it by shooting 600 film and having the integrated flash + AF, I've always found the AF alone isn't reason enough to justify the extra length of the Sonar models.
„The iconic off button“ :) Yes indeed, great video
I have a 2806...a 2701 and an
6901...but NO film. And a 7000.
But if I had a pack of film...I'd try the 690, first.
Also, an EE100 prototype.
I have a few original (Polatronic) and 3rd party SX-70 add on flash units from the 60s & 70s and they are WAY more powerful than the Mint flash bar. For the 680 a smaller flash will do but the SX-70 needs a much stronger flash due to the low ISO
I never found the Mint flash bar strong enough.
Both are great cameras, I prefer a converted SX70 because I never trust the flash and autofocus unit on top of the 680... It feels so wobbly. But it is probably unfounded fear since they are very well build and I never had one break on me. The question I wonder is if you can see a real difference between SX70 (ASA 160) and 600 (ASA 640) film. The images are too small to spot grain difference most of the time but in terms of color or susceptibility to errors I sometimes think SX70 film is better. My mail to Polaroid was answered that there is no real difference. Do you have any more infos on that? I might to a 1:1 comparison on Instagram in the future with my SLR670s... :)
First off, love your channel and looking forward to more new content! If you already have an autofocus SX-70 and mint flash bar 2 and can deal with inconvenience of using an ND filter to shoot 600 film, are there any other advantages of upgrading to the 680? In other words do you get better/more consistent results (especially in low light) with the 680?
Thank you! Certainly the biggest advantage is the film speed. ASA 640 can be used more flexibly at different times of day than SX-70 film.
I have a 690 and the newer Polaroid film doesn't work well in it ... found out it's something about the rollers ... still love and use my SX70 Sonnar!!!
OMG 😆 That's Hugh Laurie in the ad 😄
Hi there, thank you very much for the vid ! Do you know where can i make fix my SX-70 ? I have a closing problem, it doesn't close properly. Thanks !
Dude, you are so funny. Awesome production quality too, keep it up.
Andre, MAD LOVE!!!
The 680’s are going for almost $500-$800 now
I was just wondering do you find the metal srl cameras to be sturdier than the all-plastic ones or is it more of a decorative element? If you had to choose between 2 SX-70 I mean.
Also do you know the difference between the 680 and the 680 SE, if there is any?
Thank you for the video !
would love to see photo comparisons between the two!
is there a 680 vs 690 video?
Very cool stuff as usual!
Here's my story about these cameras: I started out with a Polaroid 1000 and it wasn't very fun but I took it with me to Japan to take a few shots... until I stumbled upon a glorious SX-70 Alpha 1 in a Tokyo camera store... I couldn't resist and bought it. Needless to say, I was blown away as soon as I started looking through the viewfinder, and even though I now own about a dozen Polaroid SLRs, it's still one of my favourites. Because of the low ASA, I mostly use it during the summer and outside, and the rest of the time it's mostly the SLR 680.
Aaand I just love "explaining"' these amazing cameras to people, especially the sonar AF, always interesting to bring up :)
I'm the same way, people love to ask and I love to answer. Also, I love that your camera is "from Tokyo" - it's cool to think about the journeys of all these used cameras. Where they have been, who loved them, who decided to sell them and give them new life. All part of the lifestyle!
@@InAnInstant Thanks for the reply! Yeah this SX-70 surely is the best "souvenir" I brought back from Japan!
Dude, great video! Funny and informative, subscribed!
Thank you David! Appreciate the love!
I got my first instant camera, the SX-70 (model 2 in black plastic, without sonar) with some cracked leather. I'm used to manual focus and I like mine because i can just put it in my pocket or around my sholder when i get a strap.
To anyone looking for something different to shoot try closeups as in my opinoin it realy shines there!
Definitely shines with close-ups! Congrats on getting that camera mate 🤩
Congratulations Ben on the 1.50K subscribers
*I know we talked about this before but*
I'm just geting started into instant photography *but* Is it the *wisest* choice to go with an SLR 680 just because it's "simple to use"?
Also I have another stupid *question* What about the SLR 680/SX-70 mint lens set and is it worth it?
Thanks Jamie! The SLR 680 and SX-70 aren't great because of their simplicity, they are great because of their lenses, SLR design, and imaging capabilities. It's a lot to spend if you're just starting out, but in the grand scheme of the photography industry all of this is actually fairly inexpensive. Just depends on whether Polaroid is worth it to you in your everyday life. And as for the lens sets, yeah they're great if you want what they're offering.
@@InAnInstant Well I'll try to buy from Polaroid because I know it's expensive but I'm supporting the *Brand*
And after thinking about it slr 680 In the Photography world is quite cheap
But I'm *sad* because they Purge the sx-70/slr 680 Travelling case when they are re-branded Into Polaroid
And I can't seem to find a neck strap for sx-70/slr 680
What's with the SE blue button variant of the SLR 680
Alright I'm going to go a little bit off topic *but is it just me who thinks that Fuji basically tricked Instagram girls into thinking that a Fuji Instax is a Polaroid* Because it's kind of cringe ._.
bty 69 likes nice
@@Jamie-ux2lw I have the Polaroid Fragment SLR 680 bag which, to my knowledge, is the only true SLR 680 case. The others Polaroid had sold were the length of an SX-70 without the flash bar, so that wouldn't fit the 680 or the SX-70 with the Mint bar on it. At any rate, both are sold out so it doesn't matter lol. In terms of straps, that's really the way to go anyway if you're bopping around. The cameras have universal strap mounts, so there's no need to get anything specific for them. Just get a strap that has two fastener ends. The blue button on my SLR 680 is because it is the Sears edition of this camera. Nothing different about its functionality but I love the Sears edition concept.
@@InAnInstant you spent *€1,900* or $ 2,051.05 on the Polaroid Fragment SLR 680 I want to say you're a *mad lad* but I think the proper terminology would be a die-hard *"and we respect the diehards"*
I would say questions but I don't know except what the hell??? is the difference between just a normal SLR 680 it's *expensive*
I've only found one promotional video and nothing else on it
By the way if you didn't hear the news Elon Musk named his baby some *weird symbols*
like " X Æ A-12. "
Lol I bought the bag, not the camera! That cam was way overpriced. However, regardless we do respect the die-bards and if someone wants to spend $2000 to Polaroid I look at that as basically a donation to the company and more power to them.
This is my first time coming across your channel and dude this is great! Insta-Subbed. Keep up the killer work man!
Dylan! Thank you mate, I’ll try!
I use a Polatronic flash unit on my SX-70 Sonar. Perhaps you can do a video about the Polatronic Flash?
Next review Polaroid 690 vs MiNT Slr670s ?
The 670s is definitely something I want to fully evaluate in the future!
I swear by the Lenmar ps-7 flash if you can get your hands on one. They seem way more stable when mounted to the camera than the more modern options offered.
Good tip!!
If I put the flashbar on the sx-70 and turn it half power is that all that it takes to put 600 film inside and shoot away (indoor and outdoor)??
Well, in south korea, the 'working/guaranteed' SLR690 is about 150$. Annnyway, it is sold at the underground market. Not the 'weedy' market. The market, constructed by the local government in underground.
Wow, $150 USD? That’s so cheap comparatively!! You’d think everyone would just sell them for a huge profit on eBay.
I don't agree that the 680 is better, sx-70 film has much better colours and the emulsion is much stronger/better for lifting or manipulation than 600. It probably is the better option if you like, taking pictures inside at parties or whatever but, if you are outside in good sunlight you don't need a flash with any Polaroid camera and most you can compensate the exposure during the day to correct. Ok, evenings in the garden aren't going to work, but original or mint flash bars will get you the good photos, another great video just prefer the original sx-70 (or at a push the sonar) the myself 👍🏻
Agreed my guy! LOVE the SX-70 color in broad daylight, and that's how I use it 99.9% of the time. Emulsion is looking as bold as ever with the 2020 batch.
@@InAnInstant mines still got its box with sleeve.
I've been an instax square shooter for the past year (i absolutely love that film format/colors/quality) and it has revived my passion for photography big time! I'm now considering getting a Polaroid as an addition, and i gravitate towards sx70, it seems here in Germany where I'm at the moment they are fairly available in the used market for around 100-150€. I have a couple of questions :i woulf mainly use it in broad daylight to try and make some beautiful/artsy shots (if i want the flash party looks I'd just go for the cheaper film on the instax) therefore flash isn't a must for me. That considered when not using flash in daylight which film performs better /has better colors and contrast between the sx70 and the 600 type? And ad far as the autofocus in the sx70 is it pretty good ? Would it be a deal breaker if it is a non af version? (I'm used to shooting film and manually focus)
If you're using it in broad daylight only, the SX-70 is great. There is a difference between SX-70 and 600 film, but that's not a major factor since you can use 600 film in an SX-70 with Polaroid ND filters. So, you can use either film (both have their merits, SX-70 film is more saturated/contrasty). And yeah the autofocus is astounding. Whether or not you need it is personal preference (I do, but if you're used to MF you prob don't).
Is it normal that on ebay the cheapest slr680 goes for 450€? 😅
Unfortunately the market is getting crazier, but you can definitely find one for 200€
Thousandth like from me :)
Very honored
Hey Dude. Can I use SX 70 film in a 680 SLR?? Thanks.
Oh the Memonto guy had SLR690 ?! Ok I want one then 😂 Sorry Contax T2
What is the red and white Polaroid 600 camera?
That’s a special edition Parks Project collab!
To me neither of them are the 'best polaroid'. :) Now I know that these models have the most features, but I own both the SLR 680 and a few Sonar models, and my problem with them is the form factor. They're just too damn long and plasitcky! I don't feel comfortable taking them out shooting. A huge increase in fragility for a small upgrade in convenience. I usually prefer the original SX-70 and the mint flash-bar-combo.
They are longbois, but with a strap on the length is inconsequential. I like the compact flash-less SX-70 as much as the next guy, but when you've got it strapped the extra 3 inches aren't even noticeable. I think you can safely call these the best, even if they might not be for everyone.
Hey, Ben! I am going to send my SLR 680 in for restoration but I'm not sure where I should send it. Do you recommend Retrospekt or BrooklyFilmCamera? Both are the same price and I know Kyle is the homie, but what about Retrospekt? The unboxing vids I see of them are above and beyond in terms of packaging. Pretty boxes are nice but which company repairs cameras the best?
Hey Ben! I don't think either company repairs cameras better, necessarily. You can put your trust in either and really I don't think you can go wrong. Follow your heart on this one!!
@@InAnInstant Thank you for your input, Ben! “It's a fool that looks for logic in the chambers of the human heart.”
I’m weeping that is perfection
@@InAnInstant I ended up going with the BFC. It was long and hard, but in the end the BFC was just the right fit for me. Plus, BFC has a year long warranty vs Retrospekt's 90 day warranty. "So I got that going for me...which is nice." -Bill Murray
The heart wants what the heart wants! The warranty element is definitely big for b!
Hello, I just got a Polaroid sx 70 sonar modified to take 600 film but the pictures aren’t turning out. I can’t seem to get the pictures to turn out like they are either too dark or too bright. And they’re not in focus. The dark ones are more in focus than the brighter ones. But I don’t understand why they aren’t coming out. My 680 seems to work so much better and I don’t understand why
Hard to say really, I think you either just need to feel out the way your camera’s light meter behaves (every one is little different) and adjust from there. As for the focus, you should be able to see that through the viewfinder.
What about the SX-70 WITHOUT autofocus???
Great camera! And essentially the same thing, just without autofocus.
Man, I ADORED my SLR 680, but then one day.. the mirror came detached inside :( And it seems like basically nowhere will repair it - the one place I found in the UK quoted me £350 which is just insane. I could buy another for much less than that... but then there's no guarantee that won't happen again. It's such a pity - I wish someone was refurbishing these for less, but I understand they're massively complex (and to fix the mirror you have to strip down the ENTIRE camera) so I guess it is what it is!
So plz, Polaroid - a new glass-lens SLR (this time with full manual controls on the camera) isn't a big ask, surely?
Oh nooooooo. Yeah the repair costs for these things (SX-70 included) are often bonkers high. In most cases it's definitely cheaper to just buy another one unless there is a tremendous sentimental value you have to the camera. Agreed with your assessment that the refurb cost is justified given the man hours required to fix these damn things, not to mention it being a VERY specialized trade that like a handful of people do professionally.
Try this person. They specialize in polaroid and few people in the facebook sx-70 user group i'm in have been happy with his work www.ebay.co.uk/usr/polanthropy
edit: and i wouldn't worry about it happening again soon. It's the kind of glue they used that failed over the last 40 years :) it's not unheard of and not a common fault in the older sx-70s
tacticaltome Thanks for the tip - funnily enough I came across him a few weeks ago, and have since had my SLR680 repaired by him! So stoked to have it working again and his service was brilliant, would definitely recommend him!
I bought my SX-70 as untested for £30 on ebay... I got pretty lucky. The only thing is I need to get the Porvair replaced
Nice
Damn what a grab!
In An Instant it’s the black one and though it clearly had its use, it’s working well! Another thing I love about Polaroid Hardware
Isn't that a younger Hugh Laurie, from "HOUSE", at 1:23?
Haha at 1:25 it says "yes, that is Hugh Laurie" underneath the graphic 😂
The question is: does the lego sx70 fold like The real one?
If you smash it hard enough!
Very good video. Thanks
Just buy the good old SX70, you can find used ones for 200 bucks on eBay, and just buy a flash bar with it. I bought mine in pristine condition with 2 packs of film for $210. Autofocus to bulky! just do it by hand!
That's exactly what i've advocated here but with a different view on the autofocus. Some people may shoot in daylight-only which gives you the luxury of shooting fairly easily with manual focus, but just as many people (or more) shoot with Polaroids indoors, at night, and in much lower light situations, where sonar AF is a borderline miracle worker. If you're in need of that feature, you also need the flash, and the SLR 680 has you covered on both fronts.
Hello! New subscriber here! I love your videos, your knowledge and the quality of your videos are top notch! I recently purchased the SLR 680, would appreciate a video on this camera to know how to get the best out of it. Thanks! :)
Hi Rubee! Congrats on the 680! Legendary cam. Will let you know if I drop a “best practices” kind of video for it!
Man I wish I could find a 680 for $250 these days
I hear that
What about SX-70 with mint time machine? Isn't it best of both worlds?
If you need autofocus or flash, then I'd say no.
In An Instant for me it’s strange to search for such camera to use with autofocus and flash, but for some people why not.
Depends on your vision, manually focusing is tough with glasses for me.
In An Instant fair point.
Where can I find the lego sx70? Is there any link? Thanks a lot!!!
Yes it’s in that segment! Etsy.com/shop/clickybricks
no pros & cons :( another great video nonetheless!
So what film should I use for the sx70?
You can use SX-70 film (native to the camera) or use 600 film but ONLY if you use an ND filter with it.
More then double these prices in Australia as always, even in 2020 the sx-70 was $700 last year.
DAMN! That’s terrible, sorry to hear it
$285 + postage on eBay from Japan but would you trust it, and it would take forever and a day to get under the circumstances.
Score of my life got the slr680 for $15 sent it straight to retrospekt
Whaaaaat that's HYPE!
@@InAnInstant yeah came with the original leather case and warranty cards I couldn't believe it dude had no idea what he had
Wow, you gotta love when that happens with Polaroid, when those opportunities strike you gotta jump on it
Also any thoughts on Mint SLR 670-S? Would love a review!
It’s a great remix and value boost, but I’ve never owned one due to Mint not producing an autofocus model. Maybe will share thoughts someday tho!
You cannot find a 680 in Australia for any money.
Slr680 for the win!
PREACH BRUDDAH!
Bro this guy legit looks like Keith Haring
I need a Keith Haring comparison counter 😂 #100 gets a free print 🤣🤣🤣
Check price of 680 now...it is 1000e on ebay
Prices for recently sold SLR 680s on eBay range from $200-$400 USD, but certainly no where near 1000. Sellers who list something that high are not listing it for the going rate, you could buy a fully refurbished one for way less than that.
Expectation price for the slr 680 on Ebay : $250
Reality Ebay price : 3,500 🙂🙃
Lmao WHAT no way
@@InAnInstant yeahh no joke ..the only available one on ebay goes for 3,500 🤠
@Christian A. Ramirez In the last 10 days, seven of them have sold for around $175-$325, so I'd just keep an eye out. There's one up for $350 rn, not great but certainly not $3500 😂
👍
No matter which one you want both will always only be available as a bid on ebay that will always be won by a guy who hired a robot.
WE can buy SX-70 because they are beautiful but I think that Polaroid killed the SX-70 film so it's a big risk to buy one.
ok, great cameras, but they don't compare to 100 series land cameras
#rippackfilm
Give me a $75 Fuji Instax SQ6 any day.
Hell yeah mate! Great camera and ya gotta love the Instax Square. That format tends to be a little smaller than I'd like but it has it's time and place in my arsenal for sure.
Oh yes the beauties
The kings
The golden childs
Best polaroids cameras
Also is one step 2 full plastic?
To be honest i don't know
I really wanna know becuse i have it one
@Michael Cordova i mean i have a one step 2
It has metal components but would be considered a "plastic camera"
@@InAnInstant hmm okey i still need check it
If y'all want a sweet looking and great working SLR 680, check out UpcycledClassics on Etsy. Got my camera from him and I can't recommend him enough. His customer service is also second to none
I love that place! They did my Sun 660 and it's like a museum piece.
The ultimate Polaroid must be the SLR 690 not 680...
The 690 was more cheaply made and has different electronics that are prone to failure.
@@InAnInstant Nah... 690's internal circuit was redesigned by the Japanese and all we know Japanese produced best cameras in the 90s. Thanks to this 690 has fastest sonar auto-focus among the entire sx-70 line.
design wise SX70 wins
It’s definitely a hump back cutie
Just got my SX-70 last month...
*Heavy Sigh*
*Goes to Ebay*
*Search: SLR 680*
😂😂😂godspeed