I so nearly made it...

[paulh]

...out of the camera show without another camera. I had managed to

limit myself to some extra film holders for the 9x12, four rolls of

Efke 100 and some very cheap processing stuff.

 

I had almost bought a Flexaret Automat in very nice condition, but

there was something that wasn't quite right (looked like someone had

fitted a tobacco filter to the viewing mirror - wierd - maybe it was

desilvering or something), or a Pentacon 6 with full warranty and 50mm

flektogon. I wasn't convinced that I would carry the Pentacon around,

given its size / weight with the wide angle lens, so decided to mull

things over. I have the address of the sellers, who modify the film

advance, and sell them.

 

No, just as I was about to leave, I stopped off at a bench full of

TLRs - mainly Yashica and Ikoflexes, plus some Flexarets and Rolleis.

All seemed in nice condition, and as I was looking the guy pulls out a

Yashica Mat LM in spotless condition, working meter, lens shade, with

unmarked case, instruction book and box. Damn!

 

I've now got a Yashica TLR to play with :-)

 

Paul

[conrad_poulin]

Congratulations! I really enjoy my Yashicamat 124. I will caution

you, if you use a cable release, use one of good quality. Not the

big cheap plastic coated ones that push the plunger out a half a

mile. A good cloth covered with not more throw then is needed. I

had a 124G, that I screwed up ( I assume) by not being careful

with the cable release. I had it repaired by a well known repair

person but it was never quite right after two attempts by him. But

like you I picked up a nice 124 in prestine condition and have

been happy with it ever since. They may not be built like a Rollei,

but with care they are more then capable. I have 11x11 Black and

White prints made from my Rollei 2.8, Yashicamat 124 and

Ricoh Diacord G and you would be hard pressed to tell which

camera was used for each. I Hope you got a nice deal. Enjoy

your new camera!

[tgh]

The cable release issue isn't a problem with the LM. It doesn't have a threaded cable release hole. You've got to use an extra "Nikon Nipple" over the release button, then the cable release just pushes against the shutter button.

 

I've had an LM for about 4 years. Super nice 6x6 TLR. You won't be disappointed. Much brighter focusing screen than Rolleicords, though the camera itself is bigger and heavier. Like most of my assembly, it's not been used as much as it deserves to be.

[vivek iyer]

Paul, Did you go today? Was it in Houten?

[conrad_poulin]

Todd: That is good to know about the LM model. I assumed it

was the same as the 124 as far as the shutter release. So in that

regard the LM model is desireable. Thanks for pointing this out.

[dean_williams]

Good. Another 'Mat user. Mine are by far my most used med format cameras. Very reliable, very good lens. I love 'em. Have fun with your new baby, P C.

[jonathan_stark]

I "almost" made it out of the Philly Photorama show on Mar. 6, except for that ding-donged Kodak Tourist that insisted on following me home!

[janice_mackay]

Paul, I have owned a Yashicamat LM since late last year. It's in good condition, but didn't come with case, book, or lens caps - just half a box! - so you did well. I haven't really checked out the meter on mine yet. So far I've put one film though it with good results. The viewfinder / focusing process takes a bit of getting used to!

 

I'm having some problems with mine so I'll start a new thread to see if anyone can help.

[paulh]

Vivek - yes it was in Houten.

 

I will have to sort out the cable release thingy, if anyone can provide a link or more info as to exactly what I need. In the meantime, I'll have to use the self timer.

 

Paul

[jorn ake]

Nice nab, PC. I really like all the Yashicamats. Give the look-down-pan-backwards thing a chance. I think TLR's are the best cameras for street photography. People think you are merely adjusting your camera - hmm mmm mmm, tum-dee-dum, click! Gotcha.

 

I need a Flektogon. I can't believe the prices for them here in the states - over $200 here. Fortunately I will be in Europe during the spring and can get one then. I expect a Flektogon will be the absolute only thing that will be cheaper in Europe. The dollar needs some help from the pharmacy at Major Leaque Baseball.