Camera · Compact
Ricoh GR1
1996-2001
Discontinued35mmIntermediateAdvanced
Street photography (28mm)
- Format
- 35mm
- Mount
- Fixed lens
- Metering
- Not confirmed
- Shutter
- 1/500
- Battery
- CR2
- Weight
- 175g
Max speed
Best for
- Street photography (28mm)
- Ultra-compact quality camera
- Discreet shooting
Features
- GR 28mm f/2.8 lens (7 elements in 4 groups)
- Ultra-thin magnesium-alloy body
- Snap focus mode
- Programme and aperture-priority AE
- Passive multi-point autofocus
Limitations
- Wide 28mm only
- Electronic dependency
- LCD can fail
Common issues to check
- LCD display failure
- Lens mechanism stuck
- Flash issues
- Battery door problems
- Electronic failures
Buying guide
The GR1 (October 1996) is a 28mm f/2.8 compact in a magnesium-alloy body (175g), developed for photographers wanting a high-performance lens in a compact. The GR1s (1998) and GR1v (2001) are updated versions; the GR21 (2001) has a 21mm lens. Test the snap focus function and the lens mechanism.
Pricing
- Typical range
- £400 - £800
- Excellent condition
- ~£1000
Indicative, no dated source.
Prices as of 2025-12. UK market, may vary.
Specifications
| Format | 35mm |
| Years produced | 1996-2001 |
| Mount | Fixed lens |
| Shutter type | Leaf |
| Shutter speeds | 2s - 1/500 |
| Flash sync | 1/500 |
| Metering | Not confirmed |
| Battery required | Yes (CR2) |
| Weight | 175g |
| Dimensions | 117 x 61 x 26.5mm (34mm at grip) |