Do Yashica TLR's require light seals?

camperbc · Jun 13, 2012

I am getting conflicting stories as to whether Yashica TLR's (such as the 635) require foam light seals. Some say yes, while others tell me that the L-shaped film door configuration would prevent any light leaks, thus eliminating the need for foam. As my "new" 635 has not yet arrived in the mail, I don't know what to believe! Can someone here please provide a definite answer one way or the other? Much appreciated!!

Thanks,
Glen

tessar · Jun 13, 2012

As far as I can remember my 635, which I bought new back in the Middle Ages, did not have foam rubber seals. When the camera arrives you can check. If it does have foam seals and these have deteriorated, an eBay seller called interslice sells replacement kits for $10-15. Highly recommended.

tessar · Jun 13, 2012

Sorry, camperbc, I did some checking and found that the Yashica TLRs did have light seals! However, the word is that the seals were made of some string-like material, not foam, i.e. not as liable to deteriorate. I certainly never had light-leak problem witth mine.

moto-uno · Jun 13, 2012

Glad I read this post.I've got 4 YashicaMats that I've owned for at least 5 years,
never had evidence of light leaks.And now I check them and two have worn seals
at the curved edge.Good thing I always used them with their cases.The materiel is definitely
dark twisted cord and easily accessed[/B. Thanks for posting this,Regards,Peter

LyleB · Jun 13, 2012

tessar said:
As far as I can remember my 635, which I bought new back in the Middle Ages, did not have foam rubber seals. When the camera arrives you can check. If it does have foam seals and these have deteriorated, an eBay seller called interslice sells replacement kits for $10-15. Highly recommended.

Just a FYI.

I noticed Interslice was no longer active on Ebay. Here is an explanation:

(there was a url link here which no longer exists)

Do Yashica TLR's require light seals?

camperbc

tessar

tessar

moto-uno

LyleB

Privacy & Transparency

Privacy & Transparency