Mamiya Magazine 35

[thirteen]

Just got an unexpected treat today - a Mamiya Magazine 35 with a 50mm 2.8 Sekor lens that interestingly has f1.9 marked on the aperture ring and clearly opens up wider than 2.8. A 35mm RF camera with interchangeable backs. Made in 1957.It's in great condition. It was going to be thrown out by a local camera store - of no use they said. They know what a sucker I am for old cameras - so they gave it to me. It has the original box with the price on - $89.50 in 1957 and $10 for the case. Also original case, both interchangeable backs and original lens cap.
Here's a link:

http://herron.50megs.com/rangefinder.htm

Part way down the page.

Anyone else come across one??

 

[charjohncarter]

That is interesting, but then again Mamiya always had a complete edge on innovation and engineering. It seems they do to this day (Mamiya 7 II). It is too bad, because the 'play it safe' companies ended up the winners.

 

[degruyl]

Did you get extra backs? That would be fantastically interesting.

 

[GoneSavage]

Wonderful! I've often envied the interchangeable backs of medium format cameras... I had no idea that similar products ever existed in 35mm! Way to go Mamiya!

Now if only this type of camera was still being made...

 

[ZeissFan]

That's a very cool camera. I think that it would be a lot of fun to use it.

The Zeiss Ikon Contarex and Contaflex each had their own interchangeable backs. Sort of cool, because instead of rewinding, you just pop in the dark slide, switch backs and keep shooting.

And of course, the Zeiss Ikon Contax had film cassettes that offered mid-roll film change, although you lose two shots. The cassettes could be used with the Contax, Contarex, Contaflex TLR, Contaflex SLR, Tenax II, Super Nettel and Nettax 35mm rangefinder.

 

[1948nikon]

Golden Fleece.

Golden Fleece.

I have had an association with Mamiya going back to 1963 and I have tell you that to find a "Magazine" in not only pristine condition but with box and case is like winning the lottery. Enjoy.

 

[oftheherd]

Wha a great acquisition! I can't wait to hear your report on how it works in actualy use, and see some photos from it.

 

[thirteen]

Did you get extra backs? That would be fantastically interesting.

It came with 2 backs. One back has a red "Lock/Unlock" dial on the base. The other back has the same dial in black - so no confusion. The "Lock/Unlock " dial operates a "dark slide" which keeps the film light tight while changing backs.