Hi,
I've got the opportunity to pick up an FM2 and AF 28-70mm f3.5 - 4.5 for $175... just wondering what the difference between the FM2, and FM2n, would I be better to try and track down a 2n??
"FM2 (1982). The shutter was completely reworked for this new model, providing 1 to 1/4000. In the original FM2, the shutter was still made of titanium and synced with flash at 1/200. Shortly thereafter, the flash sync speed was increased to 1/250, though no other features were changed (these models are distinguished by the flash sync speed labeled in red).
FM2n (1989). The shutter was reworked again, this time made of aluminum. No other changes were made.
FM2n/T (1993). The top and bottom plate of this version are made of titanium. Otherwise, the camera is exactly the same as the FM2n. "
The FM2 is far more rare (if you are collecting) and the only difference is the titanium shutter it has versus the aluminum one on the FM2n. The shutter speeds are identical but the flash sync speed of the FM2 is 1/200th versus 1/250th, but if you put the FM2 in manual at 1/250th ... it works fine, I hear.
Neither btw has off the film plane flash metering. Both are fabulous cameras that need no batteries except for the meters and of course in a body like that the battery lasts for one to four years. Quite a difference. I have one, along with the FE2 but somehow use the FM2 most of the time. In fact I sold my F100 since next to the FM2 it just was not the same and the focus with manual lenses was difficult with the F100. So I am really happy with it.
I have a small walk around kit, the FM2, the 20 f 2.8, the 55 f2.8 micro and the 105 f 2.8 micro. It all fits, along with five or six rolls of HP5+ or Tri-x into a small pouch which I carry on a belt. Unbelievably compact. Funny, how it feels great sometimes to walk away from automation and zoom panic, thinking every focal lenght between 12 and 300 has to be covered without moving feet. This little kit make less more, and does the job. Sometimes I try to substitute the D200 ... but its just not the same.
The FM2n takes the K2/B2/E2 focusing screens, which are about a stop brighter than the screens for the original FM2. You can install the newer screens in the FM2, but it may affect the metering accuracy.
I think the titanium shutter curtains carried over to the FM2n for a few years, but was changed to aluminum towards the end of its production life.
