[earleygallery]

I have an R3 which I've had from new. I think it must have been one of the last of the line. So far its not been serviced, it's been used carefully but not so carefully that I haven't used it on a beach or in the rain, and its still functioning perfectly. I recently replaced the foam seals/lightraps which was an easy and cost about £10 in all.

I have thought about buying a newer model but decided why bother when it does everything I need it to?

As for reliability problems with the R4, surely if you find one in good condition which is working perfectly now, then any problems have already been addressed. The only thing to consider is the fact that if it were to break down, the cost of repair may well exceed the cost of buying another working body (and there may be some faults that are unrepairable). But this would apply to most s/h discontinued SLR's of a similar age.

My advice would be to buy the older bodies, R3, R4/s, RE, R5, and use the money you save to spend on the lenses.

Regards