YashicaMat 124G

[franciscojhh]

Hi,

I have a YashicaMat 124G but not the case... I was wondering if you have some advice on the kind of bag I'd better buy to carry it around.

Also: Is there something really important I should know about this camera in order not to break it? Is it better to change speeds before or after cocking the shutter? Can I change the speeds after I set the timer?

Fran

 

[Dan Daniel]

DO NOT USE THE SELF-TIMER!!!

Ok, got your attention. First, seriously, if you try to use the self-timer when the flash sync is set to M, you may destroy the shutter. Well, you trash part of the self-timer and the only fix is to open it up and either replace the self-timer unit or gut it and re-install the shell.

There is a mechanism to stop you from actually arming the self-timer while set at M, but it doesn't take much to overcome it.

Also the self-timer mechanism seems to be the first one to get dirty and gummy and tend to not finish. This will lock up the camera until it decides to finally release. A little pressure on the lever will often make it move along (unlike the flash sync jam, which involves a spring metal washer getting bent and snapped in half).

So- flash sync at X only. And be prepared for it to not fire. Changing speeds after setting isn't a problem.

As to acase, I just went to a store and tried fitting the camera in different bags. I have a Lowepro case that is a bit wide and low for a Rolleiflex; I think it was marketed as a video camcorder case? And I have a smaller Tamrac case for a Rolleicord. Camera cases are like shoes- very personal, and you might end up trying a few.

If you do find a Yashica 'ever-ready' case, a warning- the straps on these style of cases are often old and dried and brittle. Safest to just replace it right off.

 

[oftheherd]

Hi,

...

Also: Is there something really important I should know about this camera in order not to break it? Is it better to change speeds before or after cocking the shutter? Can I change the speeds after I set the timer?

Fran

Don't drop it on the sharp edge of a rock. That's what I did. Then shortly thereafter it was stolen. Must have been a surprised theif.

You can indeed change shutter speeds after cocking, or at least it never bothered mine. I don't know about with the self timer engaged. I think it only trips the shutter at the end of its run, and doesn't care what speed is set, but I don't know that I ever tried it either. Those who still have one can probably answer that better.

 

[Rogier]

I have the leather case but took it off. Made it to bulky for me..