Question About Yashica Program SLRs

[das]

Hi! I had a question about the later Yashica 35mm SLRs like the FX-103, the 107, 108, and 109. These models can perform a "program" mode by setting the lens to the minimum aperture. Does this mean that these cameras can use program mode with ALL Contax lenses -- both the AE and MM lenses -- as well as ALL Yashica C/Y lenses? Or is the capability limited to certain Yashica and Contax lenses. And it's also kind of a shame that Contax could never incorporate this technology into of its own bodies (limiting program mode to Contax-branded MM lenses only).

 

[monopix]

Yes they can with all C/Y lenses though I've never worked out how when Contax cameras can't.

 

[oftheherd]

Page 54 of the official Contax MT manual may shed some light. I had to look it up as I haven't used mine for a while. I had forgotten myself that it still works in av mode regardless of the program setting when you use a non MM lens.

As to the Yashica FX cameras, it has been even longer since I used any of my FX 104s, and I didn't feel the need to look it up at the Butkus site.

 

[ColSebastianMoran]

Thanks for the reference to the 167MT page.

Here is what I think is the relevant text:

• If you are using an AE lens that is not an MM type, you cannot
take pictures in the PROGRAM (PROGRAM HIGH and PROGRAM
LOW) or Tv mode.
• When an AE lens is mounted on the camera, it switches
automatically to the Av mode even if it has been set to the
PROGRAM (PROGRAM HIGH/LOW) or Tv mode. Since such an
automatic function is provided, the camera switches automatical-
ly to the Av mode when the Main Switch is at ON, even if you
have made lens interchange between MM type lenses. Therefore,
set the PROGRAM (PROGRAM HIGH/LOW) or Tv mode again, or
change the lens with the Main Switch at OFF.

 

[oftheherd]

Yep, that is it. BTW, I mentioned my FX 104. I don't think they made one. I think I meant FX 103. As I said, I haven't used any of those in a long time and can't get to them anyway, since all are in storage at this time. I hadn't even been on the Butkus site in a long time.

I did enjoy the Contax 167 MT, but still have good memories of my Yashica cameras, including my first SLR I got while assigned to Vietnam. It was the TL Super. Got some good photos with that.

Any of you reading this thread had any experience with any Yashica SLRs?

 

[splitimageview]

I need to test my Yashica C/Y lenses on my 159MM to see if they work in program mode.

But I never use program mode...🙄

 

[das]

No Contax body I'm aware of can use any Yashica lenses in program mode.