Yashica Mat 124/G or Rolleicord III/V... which would you recommend?

[aaron_d]

The subject line pretty much sums it up, but let me further explain.

I'm looking to buy a "low-end" (meaning inexpensive) MF camera as a

launch into this rhealm. Let's assume the use will be a combination

of portraiture and human candids. Which would YOU recommend and why;

the Yashika Mat 124(or G) or the Rolleicord (III or V).

 

Thanks so much for the input and help!

 

aaron d.

[djphoto]

The Yashica is faster and more convenient to use, however the Rollei is of more durable construction. Lenses are about equal, with maybe a slight edge to the Rollei. I would not get a Rolleicord III, though. The V is more modern and has a brighter screen. The Yashica excells either model of Rolleicord in screen brightness. A Maxwell Precision Optics screen will cure that problem.

[ken_munn]

The best Rollei you can buy. Reason: these are both old machines. The Rollei has a reputation for carved-from-solid construction and there is a small industry dedicated to keeping them in service. Being polite about the Yashica, it doesn't have as good as reputation, and it is more difficult to get fixed.

[ben_mcree]

You might want to take a look at the less expensive RolleiFLEXES as well. A 'Flex MX or MX/EVS will have the same type of lens as a 'Cord and should cost about the same, but will have a viewing lens with a wider aperture (2.8 vs. 3.2, I believe).