it's a great camera. I just picked one up @ a thrift shop (where else!). The 40/1.7 is sharp and has good color correction. The battery is needed for the auto exposure and meter. You can shoot mechanically in manual mode without it. Instead of the 1.35v mercury battery, go to your local discounter and pick up the 1.4v "675" hearing aid battery. Put an O-ring around it and it'll be a perfect fit. The 1.4v level is close enough for no real problem.
One nice feature is the flash control. It's managed by the flash GN. If you focus further away the aperture will open more, and if you focus closer it will stop down more. And the finder aperture display will show you the setting! They're well-built. The modest weight with the high-quality lens makes it a great carry-around. Get it and enjoy it. And if you decide you don't want it ... Collin
