Ricoh's ultra-wide fixed-lens 35mm GR compact — 21mm lens, autofocus, 2001.
The Ricoh GR21 is a compact fixed-lens 35mm camera from Ricoh, introduced in 2001 as the widest-lens member of the film GR series. It is distinguished by its 21mm fixed wide-angle lens, and it became a high-value cult compact sought by photographers who want an ultra-wide view in a pocketable film body.
This is a fixed-lens 35mm compact with a 21mm fixed wide-angle lens and autofocus. It offers automatic exposure with electronic metering and a built-in flash, so it depends on a working battery to operate. The 21mm lens gives a wider field of view than the 28mm lenses of the other GR film models, and the lens is fixed and cannot be interchanged.
The GR21 suits photographers who want an ultra-wide 35mm compact for street, travel, documentary and landscape work in a small body. The 21mm view is well suited to environmental and architectural framing, and the slim design keeps it discreet, though its wide angle asks for care with composition.
As a high-value cult compact, buy carefully. Confirm the electronic metering, autofocus and flash operate with a fresh battery, and check the battery-door area for corrosion. Inspect the 21mm lens for haze and fungus, check the LCD display for bleed or fade, and verify the lens extends and retracts cleanly. Check the light seals and film-advance mechanism, and confirm the meter reads correctly.