Mamiyaflex Automat B (1954): Your Window to Vintage Photography
What is the Mamiyaflex Automat B (1954) Film Camera?
The Mamiyaflex Automat B, released in 1954, is a classic medium format twin-lens reflex (TLR) film camera manufactured by Mamiya. It is one of the iconic cameras from the golden era of analog photography. This camera was designed to produce high-quality images using 120 roll film, making it a favorite among professional photographers and enthusiasts alike.
The Mamiyaflex Automat B boasted a sturdy build, excellent optics, and advanced features for its time. It allowed photographers to shoot at a square 6x6cm format, offering exceptional image quality and versatility. With its dual lenses and waist-level viewfinder, this camera provided a unique shooting experience that allowed for accurate composition and focus.
Features and Specifications:
- Lenses: The Mamiyaflex Automat B was equipped with a pair of high-quality lenses – the Mamiya-Sekor 80mm f/2.8 taking lens and the Mamiya-Sekor 80mm f/2.8 viewing lens. These lenses delivered sharpness, clarity, and beautiful bokeh.
- Shutter: The camera featured a leaf shutter with speeds ranging from 1 sec to 1/500 sec, allowing for precise control over exposure.
- Focusing: It had a precise focusing system with a helicoid ring mechanism, enabling photographers to achieve accurate and smooth focus.
- Light Metering: The Mamiyaflex Automat B did not have a built-in light meter, requiring photographers to use external light meters or their knowledge of exposure settings.
- Interchangeable Accessories: The camera had a bayonet mount that allowed for attaching various accessories like interchangeable lenses, close-up lenses, and filters.
Price and Availability:
Back in 1954, the Mamiyaflex Automat B was priced at around $300, making it quite an expensive camera at the time. However, considering the exceptional quality it offered, it was considered a worthwhile investment for serious photographers.
Today, the Mamiyaflex Automat B is a highly sought-after collector’s item, and finding one in good condition can be a challenge. Depending on the condition and additional accessories included, you can expect the price to range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars on the vintage camera market.
Capturing Timeless Moments:
If you’re a photography enthusiast who appreciates the charm and character of vintage cameras, the Mamiyaflex Automat B is a perfect choice. Shooting with this film camera transports you to a bygone era, allowing you to experiment with the unique TLR shooting experience and create stunning images that showcase the timeless beauty of analog photography.
So, if you ever get the opportunity to hold a Mamiyaflex Automat B in your hands, be sure to cherish it and create beautiful memories.
