Why use a mamiya press? What to expect and what should I pay?

Paul Howell · May 29, 2020

I also have a Mamiya RB67 S-Pro outfit with lenses and accessories. But do I need this system, given that I have a Universal outfit? I doubt it. I have a friend who's interested in my RB kit. If he ask's it's his for a good price.

I have a Kowa Super and standard SL66, I don't that that the Mamiya replaced the Kowa, there are times when a SLR is best system. I have the Kowa lens are a stop faster than the Mamiya, and 6X6 has bit more depth of field when using the 250. But, very rare, only saw one and should have bought it when I had the chance was the mutlit back, with masks, 6 X 4.5 6 X6, and 6X9, I know that you can the same format by cropping, but there is a film saving.

kingbuzzie · May 31, 2020

Wow, thanks for all the replies. I will digest all of these posts before making a purchase. I'm also considering a 4x5, but because I am hesitant due to the price of a scanner.

Paul Howell · May 31, 2020

If you are thinking 4X5 consider a 6X9 view camera, only a few models were made, somewhat hard to find, but provide much more movement, most allowed for either roll film or sheet film.

Dennis-B · Jun 4, 2020

Dennis-B said:
Okay, I've followed this discussion, and I finally couldn't resist the urge any longer. I've done eBay searches, selected only US sellers, and failed to find any examples I wanted; changed the parameters, and got a huge number of hits, mostly from Japanese sellers. While they tend to use "form" ratings, the pictures of the products have been a fairly accurate portrayal of cosmetic quality. Yesterday, I pulled the trigger on one which fit my wants. I used "Buy It Now", paid for the purchase, and within an hour received an email from the seller telling me that he was cancelling the sale, and refunding my money, owing to the COVID pandemic. I tried again today, with another seller, so we'll see how this transaction goes. Stay tuned...

PS - Earlier this month, I bought a LF Fujinon SWD 75mm f.5.6 from a Japanese seller 50 miles from Tokyo. I received it four days after the order.

The quest has ended with the delivery this morning of a black Mamiya Universal. It has a 127mm f/4.7 lens, the multi-format indicator back and viewfinder mask.. My plan right now is to shoot 6x9, since I already have cameras for 6x6 and 6x4.5. I haven't shot anything in 6x9 for a number of years.

This camera was shipped FEDEX on June 1; four days to my door. Odd routing, through Honolulu, Oakland, then Detroit. Packaged very snuggly. The only thing missing is the cable release for the grip, and I found a replacement for it.

Paul Howell · Jun 4, 2020

That a good deal, the multiback is rare. Did you get a viewfinder for the 127?

Dennis-B · Jun 4, 2020

Paul Howell said:
That a good deal, the multiback is rare. Did you get a viewfinder for the 127?

The viewfinder has a mask for the 100 (6x7) and the 127 (6x9), fits over the front of the camera finder.

Paul Howell · Jun 4, 2020

My univerals have internal viewfinder bright lines for 100, a switch for 150 and 250 masks , then small edge markings for 6X7 back. Didnt know they made a 127 mask, thought there was an exteran viewfinder that fits the shoe. As I understand it the 127 was standard normal lens for the polaroid versions. Looking at on my Universals not sure how the 127 mask clips over the viewfinder, I'll have to dig out my manual.

Kodachromeguy · Jun 4, 2020

Dennis-B said:
The quest has ended with the delivery this morning of a black Mamiya Universal. It has a 127mm f/4.7 lens, the multi-format indicator back and viewfinder mask.. My plan right now is to shoot 6x9, since I already have cameras for 6x6 and 6x4.5. I haven't shot anything in 6x9 for a number of years.

This camera was shipped FEDEX on June 1; four days to my door. Odd routing, through Honolulu, Oakland, then Detroit. Packaged very snuggly. The only thing missing is the cable release for the grip, and I found a replacement for it.

View attachment 247623

That is spectacular, good find! Everything I have read about these Press Universals is that the lenses are excellent. Better buy some of the other focal lengths when you see clean examples for sale. One day, the good stuff will be gone or will have disappeared into collectors' closets. Please show some examples as you go along.

thuggins · Jun 13, 2020

I've looked at the Mamiya, Koni Omega and even the Graflex XL for a couple of years. A little voice in my head would always say "You could never fall in love with that."

If you are patient, you will find your true love.

Why use a mamiya press? What to expect and what should I pay?

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