What's the deal Yashica Mat 124 G

[rbguff]

New to me Yashica , have had trouble w winder, jammed on me twice, opened it up and oiled, it seems the take up gear, where film take up spool is connected get loose, too much tension? any tips, or is this a general condition for this camera.

 

[DWThomas]

I purchased one in 2010 that was in relatively nice condition, other than the built-in meter, and have had no problems with the winder. In late 2018, out on a rather cold day, I noticed the shutter release button was slow in popping out after an exposure. Being pleased with the camera, I sent it off to Mark Hama for a CLA, and now all is well, including the meter now works with a non-mercury cell.

The camera has some interlocking to prevent double exposure, and the need to back up the crank a bit to cock the shutter. I suppose it might be possible to wind up in some indeterminate state in that process, especially if any internal linkage is binding. I believe the 124g was last made circa 1982, so the newest of them have been around a long time.

Anyway, I quite enjoy mine.

 

[dynachrome]

The 124G was my first medium format camera. It was used when I bought it, probably in 1973. The Yashinon taking lens was very sharp and the meter was useful if I tilted the camera down a little so not too much brightness from the sky was read. I shot many rolls of 120 and 220 film with it. I would love to have some fresh Verichrome Pan again. The 124G was eventually replaced by a Minolta Autocord. The winding mechanism of the 124G had to be repaired one too many times. The Autocord's lens isn't any sharper than the Yashinon but in most respects the Autocord is better made mechanically. The only exception might be the button on the Autocord's focusing lever. I have been careful with mine and it's still attached. Over time I have added a number of orher Yashica TLRs including a 44, a 635 an A and a D.

 

[Ko.Fe.]

I had three 124 G over years after 2012. They need some light CLA, just DIY, but never any problem as in OP.
Google has parts chart links and finding some videos for CLA.
I had earlier Yashica TLR and it was junk.