Sakai Machine Tool (makers of Toyo View cameras) to end operations Jan 31st, 2025.

[analogwisdom]

As seen on Twitter, with translation:

Truly sad to hear. Can't believe they lasted this long, honestly.

 

[analogwisdom]

A photo of President Nishi and Azuma from cafe_mekabu's Instagram.

Translation (from Google):

Sakai Machine Tool, famous for its large-format camera Toyo View, has decided to close its business at the end of January. Thank you for all that you've done over the years

 

[Milpool]

Toyo seemed to be “winding down” over the past several years (I think the only camera available is the AX). It’s not surprising but still sad.

Maybe I should buy a few film holders (unless any stock is already gone). I guess that leaves only Chamonix making holders?

 

[analogwisdom]

Toyo seemed to be “winding down” over the past several years (I think the only camera available is the AX). It’s not surprising but still sad.

Maybe I should buy a few film holders (unless any stock is already gone). I guess that leaves only Chamonix making holders?

Intrepid makes 4x5 holders. Zebra makes wet/dry plate holders. I believe Canham still makes holders for various more esoteric unusual LF sizes.

I do believe Chamonix is the only outfit making 5x7 and 8x10 film holders.

Just from a quick glance, B&H and Catlabs have brand new Toyo 8x10 holders in stock.

 

[xkaes]

I sure hope someone sees this as the perfect -- and perhaps only -- time to put together a history of the firm and their products over time. It's clearly a big hole in the Internet.

 

[ags2mikon]

I have a Toyo 4x5, nice machine. We will miss them. Must be cold in the shop, they have the kerosene heater going and wearing coats. Japan can get cold.

 

[mshchem]

View attachment 388897

A photo of President Nishi and Azuma from cafe_mekabu's Instagram.

Translation (from Google):

Great photo!

 

[Bazamat]

Would love more information on how this impacts Toyo, but this doesn't necessarily mean they are going anywhere. Its just a manufacturer

 

[analogwisdom]

Would love more information on how this impacts Toyo, but this doesn't necessarily mean they are going anywhere. Its just a manufacturer

Not really sure what you mean. This company IS Toyo, and they're going to close their doors. How does that mean they're not going anywhere?

 

[john_s]

Not only the field camera, but also the miniature drill press that I still use regularly. I think, not sure, that they also made a model builder's lathe.

 

[Bazamat]

Not really sure what you mean. This company IS Toyo, and they're going to close their doors. How does that mean they're not going anywhere?

You are right, I am mistaken. I was under the impression that Toyo was a sub-brand of MAC group and that Sakai was just a manufacturer. But it seems that MAC is just responsible for marketing, sales and distribution.

 

[gmac123]

I believe this is one of their cameras, but the video is currently going slightly viral on youtube



3DS-EXP 645

The creator is trying to find a manual for it - does anyone have any ideas on where to get one?

 

[Tomek_]

View attachment 388897

A photo of President Nishi and Azuma from cafe_mekabu's Instagram.

Translation (from Google):

This is so nice I believe that all businesses should be lead by passionate people like these guys.