Buying used Mamiya : quality check

[Frederic]

I'm buying a Mamiya 7II with 80 mm lens for about 1250 euros ( 1400 dollars?)
I would like to know what I need to check? I presume the most important thing to be the rangefinder, the focussing system and lense.

How can I know the focussing is correct without using film?

Kind regards,

 

[rpsawin]

As with all rangefinder camera the rangefinder can become mis-aligned. This is noticable when you focus on an object and the image is fuzzy/unclear either horizontally or vertically. The camera can be out of alignment slightly and still be usable. I would advise you to have a Mamiya qualified tech adjust the alignment if it is out. You will receive advice telling you this is a simple fix and you can do it youself....maybe, but I would not.

I would run a roll or two of slide film through it asap. When you put the slides on a light table you should be able to determine if there are any focus issues. Besides, mf slides on a light table will blow you away.

Make sure the lens mounts to the body easily and you don't hear a grinding or scraping noise. The lens should mount smoothly.

Turn the camera over and locate the Light Sheild Curtain. Many users have reported problems with the lever snapping off. Test it and see if it feels week or flimsey.

This is one of the best mf systems available and the lenses are rated at the top.

Good luck,

Bob

 

[bensyverson]

Actually, the biggest issue with the Mamiya 6 seems to be the film advance. Something about the mechanism is prone to failure, so you may want to check and see if it's been serviced for this. Apparently once a repair shop fixes this, it's not likely to happen again...

 

[mervynyan]

I'm buying a Mamiya 7II with 80 mm lens for about 1250 euros ( 1400 dollars?)
I would like to know what I need to check? I presume the most important thing to be the rangefinder, the focussing system and lense.

How can I know the focussing is correct without using film?

Kind regards,

I will do $1200 USD-🙂

Generally speaking, you have to find an infinitive subject and see if the focus patch complete stacked. However, on all the lenses I have, you can focus beyond infinitive slightly, so turn the focus on infinitive mark.

The DIY adjustment is very easy, there is a cap on the back. Inside, you will find 2 screws, one horizontal, one vertical. You can turn the screws to find the perfect spot. But if you are afraid, there is always trained technicians.

 

[rpsawin]

Actually, the biggest issue with the Mamiya 6 seems to be the film advance. Something about the mechanism is prone to failure, so you may want to check and see if it's been serviced for this. Apparently once a repair shop fixes this, it's not likely to happen again...

That maybe true on the Mamiya 6 but we are discussing the M7II and that is not an issue with this camera.

Bob

 

[bensyverson]

D'oh! I misread the OP