Need a 35mm or medium format camera, have a few choices in mind, please sound off

[cgw]

So I found a c30 just the body sans lens or waist level finder for $40. Should I jump on that?

Just make sure the bellows are light-tight, the focus screen is there and not cracked or excessively cruddy, and the film advance is working. If all are "go," then I'd be willing to peel off two 20s, sure.

Check WLF pricing and availability.

Here's what's probably the best source on all things Mamiya TLR:

Graham Patterson Photography

 

[gsgary]

I would buy one with the 80mmf2.8 blue spot lens like in my shot, lenses on their own fet ch good money over here

 

[Mike_E]

FUJI GX680! (right derrel?)

Seriously though, yes. Jump on the C30. Heavy, but with interchangeable lenses, lots of bellows extension, parallax correction, the Mamiya C-series is the best TLR you can get.

oreally

I suppose the interchangeable lenses might make some feel that way but there is a higher stratum still.

 

[unpopular]

Oh come on, don't tell me that you mean the old Rolleicords/flexs?? Totally overrated.

Don't get me wrong, I'm down with fixed lens - my favorite camera is the Canonette. But the Rolleis I just have no interest in.

The big reason why interchangeable lenses are good is because old shutters tend to lag or jam. For the cost of repair, you can just replace it.

If you mean the new Rolleiflex, that's not fair at all!! (though, I still think they're kind of novelty cameras).

 

[amolitor]

Mamiya never got much love for their glass, but it has always been fully competitive with the best of the best.

 

[unpopular]

I think a lot of that was post-war prejudice more than anything.

But comparing apples and apples at the time, you've got old moldy Tessars and Xenotars from Rollei and soft Planar copies from Yashica. Don't get me wrong, those Yashicamat lenses in particular have a great, classic quality, but none of which I would call "sharp".

 

[dsiglin]

Choices, choices.

So I found a guy with a pristine C33 with prism and two lens sets (waiting to hear back what lenses they are). He wants $250.

I also found a Yashica Mat 124G in near mint condition for $150 total. It includes WLF.

I DON'T KNOW!!!

 

[unpopular]

I think Yashicamats are overpriced right now, $150 isn't bad - i've seen them go for way more. They're fun little cameras, and very light weight, the lens is very good with excellent bokeh and just has this quality about it, if razor sharpness isn't a priority. I owned one, and enjoyed it a lot. But, I really wanted a C-series, I just think they're more versatile.

If you do a lot of backpacking, I'd go with the yashicamat. But once that shutter jams, it's done.

 

[cgw]

Choices, choices.

So I found a guy with a pristine C33 with prism and two lens sets (waiting to hear back what lenses they are). He wants $250.

I also found a Yashica Mat 124G in near mint condition for $150 total. It includes WLF.

I DON'T KNOW!!!

Prism finders on a Mamiya TLR don't cut it next to a WLF--be willing to haggle. "Mint" 'Mats can often have shutter speed issues(something to check out) and a competent CLA could easily double the $150 price. Patience...

 

[dsiglin]

Actually, I'm not sure what is on top of the Mamiya, here's the link:
Camera Mamiya Professional Reflex

 

[unpopular]

It is a prism finder. Never used one, so I can't say much. I'd think it'd be kind of awkward, though perhaps not if rigged with a cheap chinese-made grip.

Does anyone know what kind fo shutter the Mamiyas used? Compur-Synchro?

 

[dsiglin]

It looks awkward. Well guess that one is out, shame it looks to be in great condition.

btw - how much would you expect to pay for processing and scanning (tiff) of 120 film?

 

[unpopular]

Aww. Now you're talking the big bucks

b/w or color?

 

[unpopular]

Act quickly!

Drum Scanner Hell Chromagraph w Chromaset Chromamount Drums | eBay

(kidding. seriously. DO NOT get this)

 

[dsiglin]

Well I know with B&W 120 I can develop it fairly easily myself which would save some $$. So let's say color, perhaps something like Portra 400 120 film.