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OCD: Mamiya 645 cameras: Produced in two series, the Mamiya 645 cameras remain extremely popular. The early cameras (645, 645J, and 6745 1000s) are built like tanks (far better than the current 645 cameras) and use all 645 lenses, but can not take current finders, winders, and similar accessories. The 645 and 645 1000s are great bargains, offering mirror lockup and all the goodies, plus compatability with the older style AE prism and motor winder. The current series (starting with the 645 Super) offers a great deal of electronics, AE, and motor winder options. Film backs are interchangeable, with 120, 220, and 35mm backs available. The Pro-TL is the first to offer TTL flash, and the 645AF is Mamiya's entry into the autofocus medium format world. RB-67: All mechanical 6x7 TANK. Exceptionally reliable, and the lenses are top notch. Rather large and heavy, it is best suited to studio use. RZ-67: An updated electronic version of the RB-67, the RZ offers AE control with the optional AE prism, electronic ISO setting from the film back, and other useful features. Like the RB, the RZ is very reliable and best suited to the studio due to its large size. Mamiya 6/7/7-II rangefinders: Stellar cameras for those who love rangefinders. The lenses are truly the best in medium format, and independent tests have shown resolution up to 90 lines/mm! For comparision, that's as good as the best 35mm lenses (which just doesn't happen in medium or large format) and a good deal better than Hasselblad lenses, which usually test at an exceptional 60-70 lines/mm. Great carry-everywhere medium format cameras, but take a little getting used to due to the rangefinder design. The Mamiya 6 (6x6) and original Mamiya 7 (6x7) are no longer in production, but some NOS (new old stock) items are still available. The current 7-II is an improved version of the 7, with more features. 6 lenses cannot be used on a 7, and 7 lenses cannot be used on a 6. Mamiya 6 lenses are available in 50, 75, and 150mm lengths. Mamiya 7 lenses are available in 43mm, 50mm, 65mm, 80mm, and 150mm. Mamiya 23/Universal: Mamiya's discontinued 23 and Universal rangefinder cameras are worth noting. Aside from excellent quality, the bodies offer access to a wide range of film backs (including a unviversal 645/6x6/6x7 back and 6x9 backs). Lenses range from 50mm up to 250mm, and most of the bodies offer some rear tilt for perspective control (extremely rare in medium format). Prices on these older cameras is also quite reasonable, with bodies going for under $400 and lenses in the range of $200-450 each. Looking for information on a camera not listed on the OCD? Submit site feedback! All content Copyright 1995-2000 by Peter Williams. Please read the Disclaimer for complete copyright and legal information. |