Advantages:

• F1.7 lens is bright and sharp - perfect for very bright shooting locations.
• Variable zoom speed.
• 8X zoom ratio is excellent for sports.
• Built-in neutral density filter.
• Automatic fade-in/fade-out.
• Backlight compensation button.
• Easily set manual aperture.

• ASA exposure compensation.
• Macro filming capabilities.
• 18fps.
• Remote filming and "Run Lock" setting.
• Runs very smoothly with almost silent operation.
• Well balanced design.
• Filter threads are 58mm.
• Dual recording levels.
• Top thread-mounts for movie light and boom microphone.
• Heavy design makes for steady handheld shots at longer focal lengths.
  

Disadvantages:

• No longer available for purchase.
• Sound film is discontinued.
• No 24fps setting.
• Not an XL (low-light) camera.
• Too heavy for backpack travel.
• No single frame release. (Remote cable can perform single frame with a "momentary" switch.)
• Separate battery for light meter (still easily obtained) is a factor when travelling.
• Both battery doors must be taped shut as they face down and may come loose in usage.

The feel of this camera is all business. The extra size is used to deaden the internal sound - no barney would be required during documentary work. The slight clockwork ticking is relatively inaudible upon the film.

This camera is what many cameras aspire to be - a completed work of art. While only capable of 18fps, this camera picks up where many leave off. The lens is a spectacular 8X zoom with superb macro capabilities. The finish on the body is all black metal with leather (probably vinyl!) padding which acts like a built-in barney. The automatic ND, backlight, and fade buttons are perfectly positioned for ease of use for both big- and small-fingered types. Little danger of jostling the camera while using them, too. The variable power zoom is beautiful when used at the slowest setting during filming. A full seven seconds elapses to go from lock to lock. The fastest setting is especially useful for quickly recomposing your shots during active filming of sports events or similar.

It seems only a few manufacturers provided perhaps the most useful feature of all in Super 8mm cameras - an override of the ASA setting determined by the cartridge. Once the cartridge is loaded, the dial at the rear of the camera can be turned so as to effectively over- or underexpose your film by up to 2 stops! Perfect for those trying to use the new VNF 80 ASA film by Kodak. Sankyo also offered this feature on their High-Focus CME 660 and 1100 cameras.

I would recommend this camera as the perfect choice for a permanent in-house studio camera or controlled-environment shooting. Its size and weight prevent you from wanting to take it with you everywhere you go. Combined with a movie light though, this camera is perfect for the animation crowd. Again, with it's weight on a tripod or animation board, it will prevent any slip in framing or shaking while running. Other cameras are well known to shake while running including the top-of-the-line Minolta XL-601.

I have seen one or two of these cameras on Ebay recently, and they go for incredible below-market prices. Usually well under $80. Keep your eyes open for this model and the similar GAF 505M and 605M. Both are bargains that most people overlook due mainly to the "GAF" name alone. The older SS models are good but tend to have older-style lenses (different coatings). Try to hold out for the 505M/605M or 805M. I am not sure if there was a higher model produced in this particular "M" line but there well could be one out there.

Don't make a mistake and pass up these fine machines. They offer excellent value for your dollar.