Canon Canonet GIII
The Canon Canonet QL17 G-III was in production from 1972 to 1982 and sold an estimated 1.2 million units. The Canonet QL17 GIII is regarded by many as the grand champion, mac-daddy, pinnacle, end-all-be-all of the compact rangefinder format.
They were available in chrome and black finish. The black version is harder to find, cost more and obviously takes better photos. Production was in both Japan (this one) and in Taiwan ROC. As far as I can tell there is no noticeable difference in function or build quality. Nothing I found online talks about any difference between the production locations.
Great size, easy to use and produces nice images. Much like the QL17, I recently shot. Other than the addition of a battery check light, I don't see much difference. Except this one is black, so win. Price seems to range significantly as does condition. But they seem pretty tough so I wouldn't worry to much about a few mark if you going to use it. I got my black one not knowing that there was a premium on back ones and I didn't have to pay up for it (but I would because it is black). I found a chrome, Taiwan model in the $1 bin at a camera swap meet recently. After cleaning out the battery compartment, it seems to work fine with the exception on the battery check light.
My Take:
Great camera but don't over pay for one (until I'm selling mine). I don't see an advantage to the GIII over the QL17. Get the model you can find at a fair price, but do get one. You will have a great little camera that you don't have to be afraid to use. I have heard it called a "poor man's Leica", not sure that is a good description. I do see it as a camera you can use, abuse and enjoy. If the esthetics of your camera are as important to you as the functionality (you may but a hipster) get a black one and enjoy. For you kids who have only shot digital, this would be a good first film camera.
