I recently dug up some old photos taken with a YashicaMat 124G that I briefly owned around 1985. What lovely images they are! I think I will pick one up again on my next trip to Japan for old times sake!
Rolleicord all the way , I serviced a bunch of them and the insides are just as beautiful and stunningly engineered as the outside. The close up lenses add a uniquely interesting look to portraits and the rest of the accessory catalogue is also top notch. With the addition of a brighter screen and, in an optimal case, a prism finder, that’s by far the greatest camera I ever laid hands on.
@@keremozkay7342 I prefer my Vb Cord over my 2.8F flex. The cord is lighter and not any slower than the flex to use. Stopped down, their IQ is pretty much the same.
@@jeromef2001 It depends on your definition of better. Yes the 2.8F has better quality one stop from it's max aperture but at f8, the images are about on par between the cord and the 2.8F and 3.5F. As for ease of use, I find, it just as fast or actually faster with the cord because of the EV number system of setting the aperture/shutter speed as you only have to read one number off the handle held meter (providing it has an EV readout) and apply it to the cord. It is also faster to calculate an average of the highlight and shadow readings. i.e. all you have to do is sum the highlight and shadow EV readings to get the average. Add the two numbers and divide by 2. Or you could take multiple readings and divide the sum by the number of readings to get a more accurate average reading of your scene. The shutter speed/aperture settings can be locked together on the cords, T rflex and earliest rflex models. The later F models had that feature removed.
I fitted one of Rick Oleson's screens to my Rolleicord V, and it utterly transformed it - fantastic brightness, and with the addition of a microprism area which is really helpful for critical focus. Definitely a recommended upgrade! I also sourced one of the little Rollei shutter buttons that screws into the cable release socket, and find that way more intuitive to use than the combined cocking/release lever.
Another vote for Rick Oleson here. I put one of his screens in a 1951 Rolleiflex Automat X and, as with your Rolleicord, Oliver, the camera was utterly transformed. I have a Beattie Intenscreen in my Rolleiflex F. Very bright, very easy to focus - but I don’t think they’re available new any more. Rick’s screens are a good second choice.
@@KyleMcDougall I would suggest you to Also take a look at the mirror... With alot of these old rolleis the mirror silver lining got rubbed of and so the brightness goes down significantly. To check you can easily remove the viewfinder and take a look at the mirror. The sides are the most important factor. In doing so you can also clean the focusing screen and the mirror box aswell as the lenses. A new mirror can easily be bought online and it made a huge difference in my Rolleiflex pre war. Very easy to install and they cut the screens just to your camerasize (every mirror is slightly different from Model to Model). Highly suggest it.
My Rolleiflex 2.8D with Xenotar lens has a magic effect for BW film. Literally a perfect camera. Perfect for traveling and always great for Studio Strobe work due to the leaf shutter
Managed to find a 124 G a few months back for a steal and I absolutely love it. Got me hooked into medium format though and I don’t think I’ll ever financially recover😂
I did my apprentiship using a Rolleicord V. When I started my own business I used 2 Yashica Mat Tlrs. One was made in 1957, and the other one was from 1964. All metal construction back then, bright finder and a fast lever wind. I still have the 1957 one with the 75mm Lumaxar f3.5 lens. The 1964 had the 80mm Yashinon f3. 5 lens. Both were tremendous cameras that never let me down. The 1957 is due for a cla with ppp camera repair here in the UK. £60 estimate. It will be good for 60 more years then hopefully.
Kyle McDougall, the perfect photography youtuber. Comes with honest and humble advice and reviews - without the items up for review skyrocketing in international price. I have always appreciated Kyle and always will. Would be a treat sitting down with him talking about his point of view on life over a pint
I found a Yashica 12 at a thrift store I frequent. After I pointed out the mold in the lenses, the guy behind the counter gave it to me, along with the wide angle and telephoto lens sets. Thankfully, I have a great camera repair shop in Fort Lauderdale, and he got the lens cleaned up and even installed a new battery compartment. This was my first foray into film in decades, and WOW. I'm blown away by the quality of this camera and amazed at the images it captures. Now to get the Yashica 635 that was just gifted to me up and running.
I have owned a CLA’ed YashicaMat 124G and Rolleiflex Automat MX 3.5 and sold the YashicaMat 124G since I had the Rolleiflex. I can say when I printed a 12x12 scanned negative from the YashicaMat 124G, the contrast and detail was phenomenal. I think you can’t go wrong with either one.
I had been shooting medium format cameras for years before I started working for a photographic studio. The studio provided me, and the other wedding photographers it hired, a Yashica Mat TLR to use. I loved the image quality and the ergonomics of the Yashica Mat but did not like them because they were not in the best working condition. I decided to buy my own TLR so I would have one in better condition. I considered the Yashica Mat, the Rolleicord, the Rolleiflex, and the Mamiya. Since I needed a camera with interchangeable lenses, I selected the Mamiya with an 80mm normal lens, a 55mm wide-angle lens, and a 180mm telephoto lens.
I'm pretty pleased with my Yashica D. Initially I purchased it with a CLA already done. But it was only a superficial CLA ( dust off the parts, a squirt of oil where needed), which lasted about a year until the shutter seized. Sent the camera to Bob Sara, CLA Studios for a complete CLA to get it refurbished from the ground up. New mirror, everything disassembled, cleaned and made to work to factory specs. Really worth the investment to get a decent CLA done.
My father, who brought me into photography, used to work with a Rolleiflex. Since mirrorless allows flipscreens, every waistlevel shooting remind me of him which is kind of nice.
I just got one and WOW. I had the images drum scanned and they are tigher than I get out of my Canon 90D. I could not believe the resolution! I saw the same thing with my RB 67. I am always amazed at what I have been getting. This was from Gold 200 since it just came out.
From a simple experience with many TLRs, I will always pick the Mamyia C220(F) over any TLRs.... Magnificent lenses, viewfinder and built better.... It is simple with no complications (like light meter) just a sturdy dark box with great capabilities to compose.... And yes it is heavy so it is not for streets other than that its the best of the best, pair it with sharp negative and get ready to be amazed.
Excellent. I would love to see a similar comparison with the Ricohflex and Minolta Autocord as both of those seem to be worthy of being in the conversation.
My tests have compared my Rolleicord V to my YashicaMat. I really like having the film advance knob and the focusing on the same side of the camera with the Rolleicord. I have found the Rolleicord to take noticeably sharper photos - same sitting, same lighting, same subject, same film. The YashicaMat’s opening/closing is round and needs to be turned but is not convenient to be used with a tripod quick release plate attached. When using the Rolleicord, I use the magnifier and by settling the camera tightly against my eyebrow/eye socket there is new greater stability that nullifies any troubles with activating the shutter release. Both cameras take the exact same Hood and Rolleinar close-up lenses. Cheers from Canada.
I've owned the Yashicamat 124G now for 2-3 years and its been great. After a year I had a sticky shutter so I sent it for a CLA to Lezot Complete Camera Center in Vermont (I'm in Nashville). At the same time I decided to purchase a bright screen from Ric Oleson. Let me tell you, that bright screen made a GIANT difference. Now it's a complete pleasure to use, even in somewhat dim conditions. I definitely recommend that upgrade.
Don't tempt me, haha. I don't necessarily need one as I'm not sure how much use the Rollei will get, more of a collection addition. But I'm so curious!
Also, I think the Yashica D (later versions) are at least as good as the 124G. There is no light meter, but you're either gonna use sunny 16 or a dedicated metering app or meter anyway (right?). Same 4-element tessar lens but the film advance and shutter cocking are separate. One less thing to go wrong. Yashica D are cheaper too.
@@ldstirling I had a 124 non-G with recurrent shutter jams to the point of not worth repairing yet again. Replaced with a Yashica D that is working well.
For quality what might be a better comparison might be the Mat-124 (non-G). Less plastic involved in the 124 vs the 124G. Also the 124 have a built in light meter which I found to be very accurate. I have my 124 service by Mark Hamma. Well worth it if you need to have yours serviced. Great comparison video.
Loved the photos you showed here! I really like my plain old Yashica MAT 124, it's the all-metal version of the 124G ❤ Nice to see that I'm not missing much on the Rolleicord since that seems to be a well-hyped TLR. I'll take the brighter viewfinder anytime haha
Great video as usual. For a potential Yashica buyer I recommend also the Yashica 124 (simple number, not the G) which has more metal and a silver finish. Cheers
The Yashica for me wins all day, I'm slightly biased as I do own one! I would highly recommend you getting one if you are thinking about it, the feel of shooting a TLR is amazing and a camera I love to shoot, also great video 👌🏻
Thank you.... I have a few TLRs.... and I love them! I remember doing a side by side test with my 124G and my Minolta Autocord. Virtually no difference, just beautiful quality B & W images!! Best wishes... p
Hi there, Very nice comparison, thanks a lot. I have one small note: It is a Rolleicord five (V stands for a Roman five). If I'm wrong, I don't have a Rolleicord III (three) at all, but a Rolleicord I, I, I.😁
Man, if you're going to shoot the Rollei get a short cable release. Forefinger and thumb to wind and adjust and the cable held between your middle fingers. I've had both 124s and I liked the non-g better for build quality but the lenses were the same. I currently have a cord 3 and a Rollei C. One stop up and either will resolve more line pairs than you'd care to count. Both of mine are Schneiders and the 2.8 is more expensive but other than getting to razor sharp a half stop sooner there is no difference with B&W film and if you want more of a modern look for color just use a Neutral Density filter. As to the ever present question of which is better, Schneider or Zeiss, the only differences you'll see are in the individual copies- not the brand. Enjoyed the Vid, thanks
Owned two Yashica MAT before switching to Rollei. Both of them have major issue of the shutter cocking lever. They are made out of fragile metal and bend/break easily. I know it will be unpopular among Yashica lover, but the Rollei are far more reliable in the long run. Or at least I wouldn't spend more than 250$ on a working version of the MAT. I still own a 635 which is simpler and are more reliable but had still failed on me after a CLA and one year of light use.
I owned one of the latest model of rolleicord as well but have to say goodbye to it because of the inconvenient way to fire the shutter. I learned that, there are actually 2 ways to fire the shutter. Pushing the lever is the less ideal but in most cases the only way to do that on many cameras. The most ideal way is to use a shutter release pin, which originally comes with the camera, but lost due to the old age. Such pin could easily cost as much as half a camera these days on eBay.
@@dhiratheexplorer1938 first one was a Yashica mat-124 now i got a mat-124 G, and a rolleicord DRP plus added a Kowa SIX but i need to get my lens fixed since the shutters inside a screwed but the Yashica is great obviously some age but still functional bought for a steal like 100 with some other cameras in a box
Nice video and two great cameras. It appears that the Rolleicord has a missing shutter button. Those are difficult to find, but as you mentioned you can still actuate the shutter as you have by sliding the release. Another good comparison is the Rolleiflex f3.5.
I have a Rolleicord La Model 3, which was produced from 1938 to 1948. It looks like it belongs in a museum, but the quality of the photos is really nice
The Rolleicord V was a "family camera" that was the next step up from the Kodak Brownie Six-Twenty box camera in the 1950's. In the 1970's I sent the Rolleicord to Z-V camera service and got a much better camera back after a modern focusing screen and back straigthening. I still have the Rolleicord, because " it just keeps working." I did get some Size 1 filters for black-and-white photography, which was Verichrome Pan or, much later, Tri-X Pan.
Great vid Kyle. The yashica 124 really punches above its weight. Did you notice any difference when it comes to flaring? Maybe the zeiss lens has better coating? I found that to be a problem with my yashicamat 124- however, I picked up a third party hood which solved most of the problem. -Shane
Cheers Shane. There was actually one image that I didn’t include where the Yashica flared and the Rollei didn’t, but I’m pretty sure it had to do with a slight difference in where I was standing. Other than that, noticed nothing different when it comes to flare.
The way you operate the Yashica here reminds me a bit more of my Rolleiflex Automat, which is the next step up in price among the Rollei cameras. Mine has a new focusing screen though.
I think rolleicord might not only suffer from darker viewfinder but also 3.2 viewing lens instead of 2.8 on rolleiflex and maybe on yashica. I was deciding between both of them, as you have fairly suggested, I picked up a rolleicord for a better deal. I am impressed with this camera overally and I can say image quality to my eye is preferable to other mefium format cameras I own and I found TLR to be the aesiest mechanical film camera to shoot with. It is definetely a good choice for everyone who wants to try medium format film photography. You wouldn't regret of purchasing one of this.
A few things worth noting about the Rolleicord V series… historically, a shutter release came with the camera and was fitted into the thread, though it seems that every user up and lost them when they replaced it with a longer release cord. You really aren’t supposed to use the same mechanism for cocking the shutter to also trip it. As well, all of the complaints mentioned for the V were solved with the Vb (which I own) - focusing knob was moved to the left side, viewfinder is even brighter than the Yashica Mat 124G (which I can attest to, having briefly owned one before the winding mechanism broke), the hood is removable and has an optional prism finder, and it’s really easy to change and clean the ground glass with a few push clips (the Mat was a royal pain to disassemble just to clean it).
Yeah the VB looks like a nice option. Just a little more expensive than the two currently. As for the shutter release button, had someone message me and let me know after posting this video. Looks like that would solve the awkward lever action.
This was helpful, thank you. I'm looking into buying my first TLR and anything that helps me narrow the choice is very gratefully received. Though I am still far from decided, this has swung me a couple of degrees towards the Yashica Mat and away from Rolleicord. Though there are still a few other contenders too.
...my first experiment with 'medium format' was with my works buddy's Yashica Mat in Germany in 1989...took a few - and one good- shots in B&W - used a hand held meter.
Fantastic comparasion! My second TLR was a Yashica-12, and I probably wouldn't have continued using the style if I had an early Rolleiflex or Rolleicord. When I did update I went with a Rolleiflex 2.8F which offers up a similar experience to the Yashica-12/124. But I also will usually recommend a Yashica as a first TLR over a Rolleiflex/cord because of price.
I also have both cameras. The shutter release on the Rolleicord is certainly something less than user friendly. At slower shutter speeds, the lateral push of the lever is prone to cause motion blur if not careful.
I love TLRs. I had a Mamiya C220 back in the day and now have a vintage Yashica D (c1958) The 'D' is very similar to the Rolliecord in operation and also suffers from a fairly dark viewfinder. But it's a different style of photography for sure: waist level, reversed images, parallax compensation etc... When you want to get back to basics but not have the faff of a 5x4 a TLR is pretty cool. (And always gets attention from passers-by too - a mixed blessing)
I've just bought a 124g, but already have the Yashica-Mat, 635 and the D, bought broken and repaired myself. I'm aware the 124g will probably be more plasticky than than the others, (a common problem with later model cameras trying to save money and weight) but I'll give it a try and see how it handles.
Yes, there is nothing like shooting with a twin lens! I had a Leica rangefinder m4p at the same time as a Rollieflex and the Leica got left at home most days. Btw, this was a very classy video!
Any TLR can benefit from an upgraded screen. I use both my Rolleicord VB and Yashica-Mats. Even with a 3.2 taking lens on the Rollei it always has had a much brighter viewfinder because of the better fresnel screen. Buying any used TLR, you would really benefit from actually looking into the finder to see what it looks like because I’ve found the screen brightness can vary wildly between each individual camera depending on if the prior owner upgraded the screen. A lot of times if it’s been worked on (a lot of these have been), it will have gotten an upgraded screen. As someone else said, if you have a dim finder it would also be a good idea to check out the condition of the mirror or the inner element of the taking lens. The mirror may be losing its reflective coating. Also, that space is not sealed and can get extremely dusty. I’ve had a camera get significantly brighter after just wiping down the mirror and taking lens. Great video on comparing the differences between the models. Both amazing cameras for their age and it was great to see the side by side results. I would just say to anyone thinking about the Rolleicord, the controls are significantly less intuitive, but with practice they become easier to use. Sorry for the long spiel.
A lot of the issues you identified with the Rolleicord V are addressed in a later Rolleiflex. Crank and shutter placement. Much brighter screen. Planar and xenotars are meant to be sharper wide open. But it comes at a price!
Really nice review! Thanks for your insights. I would be thrilled with either of the cameras and will keep a look out for a deal on either of them! Do you know if the wide angle attachment for a Yashica D would fit the Yashica Mat? I won a set in great condition as part of a camera set at an auction.
For 124G. 1.) Ali express a split image screen 2.) get a tech to remove the X-M switch and the self timer 3.) line all interior surfaces with self adhesive black flocked paper 4.) make sure the rear lens elements are clean - the side facing the shutter. 5.) always use a lens shade. The images from this camera are exceptional.
I use a Rolleiflex automat which is similar in price to the Rolleicord, but has the better shutter release system, and the lens iris has more blades/rounder/smoother for nicer bokeh. It's viewfinder is not bright as noted. Haven't bothered to upgrade it because it works for focusing. Also have Yashica C, which has a lesser lens (triplet) which has it's own character sometimes desirable. Film path is different, focusing is opposite. I understand the confusion switching between cameras.
I have a Yashica 124G as my first medium format camera. I like the relatively compact form factor (for medium format cameras). It is also a lot of fun to shoot with. I wanted a Rolleiflex but the prices were/are insane. I also prefer the aperture and shutter speed knobs on the 124G over the Rolleicord. I'm still deciding on rangefinder or SLR for my next proper medium format camera. All the prices are insane!
A Rolleiflex 3.5b (mx-evs) would be a fairer comparison as it is a similar price/function to the yashica. You will end up with a 2.8f with a planar or xenotar eventually as your passion for tlr cameras is obvious ;). Great vid mate, subbed.
Excellent comparison. I had a Rollei F 75mm Xenotar 3.5 which I left in the LA airport bathroom, due to jet lag fatigue. The lens was absolutely incredilbe, wide open. They've become too pricey so I've decided to not to buy another. If I ever go back to medium format, I will surely buy an Exakta 66. The TLR has too many limitations -- can't change lens, you have to buy expensive filters if you wanna get closer, I always preferred eye level prism instead of the waist level. But the Rolleis are incredible engineering and design feats.
Dammit! Now I have to buy that Yashica I've been eyeing and trying to convince myself that I don't need it, after buying myself a Mamiya RB67 two months ago ...
Now you have to buy this Yashica Mat, and then the obligatory Mamiya C3 or C330 Pro;) Of course, then there are Voigtlander Brillant / Superb, Rolleiflex, Veltaflex, Ikonflex and so on. This is an incurable disease ... I know something about it, because I just bought Voigtlander Perkeo and Inos II from 1935 ...
Great overview and test, thanks! Nice how you were trying to be diplomatic and perhaps avoid the wrath of fanboys, but it's just not right to say that the operation of the Yashica is "different" rather than "better". A combined film advance/shutter release is objectively better for normal operation (deliberate multiple exposures are of course an exception). Likewise the conventional shutter button is threaded for a cable release. With decades of experience and new technology to draw on, that's as you'd expect. As you said in your conclusion, if you just want to make photos, all else being equal, the Yashica is the winner. But if you particularly enjoy the idea of an authentic old-school German machine or find a good deal, the Rolleicord is so close it makes little difference.
Yeah, I hear what you're saying. But, just since I like it better, doesn't mean that everyone will. I'm sure some people out there will prefer the Rollei's way of working, even though to me, the Yashica's way or working makes a lot more sense.
Shawn Mozmode on emulsive.org shows how to engage/disengage double=exposure prevention. The lever near the viewing lens opposite the self-timer engages/disengages double exposure prevention. When in the up position double exposures are prevented while in the down position it is disabled, allowing multiple exposures.
Give me a Mamiya C330f for the 6x6 format & the interchangeable lenses. Sure, much bigger & heavier than even a Rolleiflex premium camera, but also 1/3rd the price of a camera now super hyped up because Vivian Maier once shot it... (a huge fan of hers btw, but not a fan of the prices they now fetch).
I have the Yashica Mat 124G and a Rolleiflex 3.5F Planar. By far, the Rolleiflex produces more contrasty images and has much better flare resistance. Sharpness-wise, they are almost the same. The 3.5F also has parallax correction. But its price is at least 3x over the Yashica, and finding a good copy at a reasonable price is rather tough.
If your Rolleiflex with 75mm 3.5 Planar is as sharp as your 124G, then your have a serious lens repair there. Years ago, having access to a number of TLRs, I personally did a full on-film lens test comparison of about 6 TLRs, including a like new 124G. In terms of on film sharpness and contrast, the 124G performance was the worst at all apertures. While I did test a Rollei F 2.8 Planar, its results were discarded as the focus between the viewing and taking lenses proved to be misaligned. All of the cameras were either Tessar 4-element lenses or copies of such. The best by a visual degree was the Minilta Autocord, followed by the Rolleicord with a Tessar, then a Diacord. These models had about 150+% the performance of the 124G.
I own a chinese Seagull TLR for 20 years or so…and I still love it, despite being super-cheap and bokeh can be super weird. I‘m still thinking about getting a Yashica though…just to have one option of higher quality. I‘ve seen prices rising within the last year or so, so I shouldn‘t wait too long…
I’m shooting a rolleicord VB and Yashica635. The VB is much sharper at f11 + and infinity yields more in focus. The Yashica635 does have dreamy swirly bokeh wide open though. So Rolleicord for landscapes and Yashica for portraits 😄
My first jump into medium format was with TLR's. First was the Halina A1, a camera at the time I thought was amazing but had so many issues with it (back popping open more times than I like to remember) that I almost gave up until I founda Mamiya C3 for a bargain price. A beautiful camera with it's 80mm lens and a beast with it's 180cm hanging off the front. I loved using it but I just kept missing that focus sweet spot on too many images so it's now gathering dust which is a shame. Maybe I'll dig out and give it another run
I have the Mamiya C330 and I couldn't be happier. Interchangeable lenses, close focusing with the bellows system. Built like a tank. And you can get it in mint condition for half the price of a Rolleiflex. The most underrated TLR in my opinion. Unless you're a hipster who just wants to look cool with a Rollei.
The lenses aren't quite as good as the 2.8f, but they're pretty damn close at 1/3rd the price. Love my C330f & 80mm 2.8 blue dot wiith the prism viewfinder. It's the purest shooting experience I've ever had.
I have a Yashica 635 it looks like the Rolie the knobs are te same. I love to shoot the 635. I use black and white film but i Gonny schoot Collour in the future thanks.
Prices are rising for both. Though the Yashica seems better value for money and something most beginners to medium format should consider. I’d guess that image quality would take a step up with the rolleiflex 2.8. Sounds like you’re headed towards the sweet spot - the Mamiya RZ67 !
I don't have the Yashica, but I've had 2 Rolleiflex 3.5 TLRs and 2 Minolta Autocords. The Autocords are wonderful and easy to handle, with great lenses. My vote goes to the Japanese models.
Very good presentation. There may be more political or dogmatic preferences that might split the opinions between both cameras. The Yashica might look a bit more like a "modern" TLR. Nevertheless, the latest models are already about forty years old and thus far behind the designed life time. As it happens, I just found my mothers Yashica 124G, which had been kept under worst conditions for over forty years now. The first battery still was in place without any damage to the battery hold. Taking the camera out of its hot storage in our attic, I only observed one problem: The "modern" light seal had vanished under temperatures between low thirties and far beyond the 100 F mark. Shutter, self timer, focus and even the aperture worked exactly as well as I left the camera in 1980. With this experience, I would suggest that the Yashica is an absolutely sturdy camera with all the advantages that have been detailed in this video.
Having not owned a Rollie anything, but having a Yashica D, and it's sister 635, and a Lubitel 2, and an Argoflex, I can say they all take wonder wonderful photos. If I were to pick up one of my TLRs, It would be the D. Or the 635. Although the Lubitel is pretty cool.
Ha that’s funny I got the rolleicord first and got used to it, then I bought the yashica mat 124g and I find the rolleicord easier cause you can hold it with the left hand. And do everything else with the right hand , whine, crank, focus and shoot. As for the yashica mat you have to switch hand like three times to take your shot
Well, I've found Schneider lenses to render scenes with more detail in the highlights and shadows and to produce a "flatter" rather than more "contrasty" image. Just compare the sky and clouds in the beach shots. Take look at the gravel driveway under the red MGA sports car. Do they look the same to you? Or does one seem puncher than the other? As far as color rendition, does the red car in one seem more saturated, and does one red seem to have the slighted bit of yellow in it-just a color cast of 2-3 points of yellow? Anyway nice comparison of the two. Each camera has their own strengths and differences. Nice video. Please keep producing them, especially of your own work.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts Norm. Glad you enjoyed this one. As for the differences, as mentioned, I’m always a bit hesitant when viewing scanned colour negative film to pick at the fine details, as it’s hard to know what variation came from the conversion.
@@KyleMcDougall Yes, Kyle, you are right. Color saturation was always an issue with color neg film. Perhaps not as much with today's films. And of course color monitors are another variation. Given all these variations, though, each lens has it's own color/contrast/sharpness signature. A photographer just has to choose which one he/she likes and can afford. Tell me, why do you choose to shoot color neg film rather than color transparency? Exposure latitude? Easier to get it processed? Color rendition? Cost?
The focus and winder makes a huge difference, as someone who started with a MAT LM and now has a few rolleiflexes. I bought my partner a yashica 635 and that focus on the wrong side and weird advanced fucked me up and I took so many double exposures haha.
I used to have a Yashica Mat LM and it was all metal built. The quality of the image was impeccable for a very affordable price, the only reason why I sold it is the fact that you cannot change the lens
The 124G was a last gasp model, glossed up and built down to save costs. Yashica stopped production in 1986, retailing for around $135 street price. Yashica got left with a load of 124G in the warehouse, so they sold the lot to B&H,. which took three years to unload at $80. Ehh build quality and the same lousy lens used since 1960.
Assuming both are fully functional and are still regularly CLA'ed, then doesn't matter. Both are great performers on my eyes (rarely shoot wide open, anyway). Add the Mamiya C330 into the competition, then it's a very easy choice :D
Nice comparison. The reds and blues on the Cord seem a tad richer to me, but if it had been a blind test maybe I would have guessed differently :) At this price point, the MX or MX-EVS should enter into consideration. Dark screens yes, but the mechanical smoothness of a Rolleiflex cannot be matched by any other TLR, Cord included.
I recently dug up some old photos taken with a YashicaMat 124G that I briefly owned around 1985. What lovely images they are! I think I will pick one up again on my next trip to Japan for old times sake!
Rolleicord all the way , I serviced a bunch of them and the insides are just as beautiful and stunningly engineered as the outside. The close up lenses add a uniquely interesting look to portraits and the rest of the accessory catalogue is also top notch. With the addition of a brighter screen and, in an optimal case, a prism finder, that’s by far the greatest camera I ever laid hands on.
Cord over flex?
@@keremozkay7342 I prefer my Vb Cord over my 2.8F flex. The cord is lighter and not any slower than the flex to use. Stopped down, their IQ is pretty much the same.
@@triode1212really ?? I always heard the flex was much better on every ways than the cord ! Very surprising ..
@@jeromef2001 It depends on your definition of better. Yes the 2.8F has better quality one stop from it's max aperture but at f8, the images are about on par between the cord and the 2.8F and 3.5F. As for ease of use, I find, it just as fast or actually faster with the cord because of the EV number system of setting the aperture/shutter speed as you only have to read one number off the handle held meter (providing it has an EV readout) and apply it to the cord. It is also faster to calculate an average of the highlight and shadow readings. i.e. all you have to do is sum the highlight and shadow EV readings to get the average. Add the two numbers and divide by 2. Or you could take multiple readings and divide the sum by the number of readings to get a more accurate average reading of your scene. The shutter speed/aperture settings can be locked together on the cords, T rflex and earliest rflex models. The later F models had that feature removed.
Alfrer all those modifications, is it still cheaper than rolleiflex?
I fitted one of Rick Oleson's screens to my Rolleicord V, and it utterly transformed it - fantastic brightness, and with the addition of a microprism area which is really helpful for critical focus. Definitely a recommended upgrade! I also sourced one of the little Rollei shutter buttons that screws into the cable release socket, and find that way more intuitive to use than the combined cocking/release lever.
Nice! Yeah I’m really tempted to grab one of Rick’s screens. The rollei with a bright screen would be a very nice setup.
Another vote for Rick Oleson here. I put one of his screens in a 1951 Rolleiflex Automat X and, as with your Rolleicord, Oliver, the camera was utterly transformed. I have a Beattie Intenscreen in my Rolleiflex F. Very bright, very easy to focus - but I don’t think they’re available new any more. Rick’s screens are a good second choice.
@@KyleMcDougall Rick's screens are top notch. I have installed so many of them in customer's cameras and they all love them.
@@KyleMcDougall I would suggest you to Also take a look at the mirror... With alot of these old rolleis the mirror silver lining got rubbed of and so the brightness goes down significantly. To check you can easily remove the viewfinder and take a look at the mirror. The sides are the most important factor. In doing so you can also clean the focusing screen and the mirror box aswell as the lenses. A new mirror can easily be bought online and it made a huge difference in my Rolleiflex pre war. Very easy to install and they cut the screens just to your camerasize (every mirror is slightly different from Model to Model). Highly suggest it.
My Rolleiflex 2.8D with Xenotar lens has a magic effect for BW film. Literally a perfect camera. Perfect for traveling and always great for Studio Strobe work due to the leaf shutter
Managed to find a 124 G a few months back for a steal and I absolutely love it. Got me hooked into medium format though and I don’t think I’ll ever financially recover😂
I did my apprentiship using a Rolleicord V.
When I started my own business I used 2 Yashica Mat Tlrs. One was made in 1957, and the other one was from 1964.
All metal construction back then, bright finder and a fast lever wind.
I still have the 1957 one with the 75mm Lumaxar f3.5 lens.
The 1964 had the 80mm Yashinon f3. 5 lens. Both were tremendous cameras that never let me down.
The 1957 is due for a cla with ppp camera repair here in the UK. £60 estimate. It will be good for 60 more years then hopefully.
I have had my Rolleicord Va for 26 years now. I love it!
Kyle McDougall, the perfect photography youtuber. Comes with honest and humble advice and reviews - without the items up for review skyrocketing in international price. I have always appreciated Kyle and always will. Would be a treat sitting down with him talking about his point of view on life over a pint
Thanks for the kind words. Cheers! 🍻
@@KyleMcDougall Cheers!
I've been borrowing a Yashica-Mat 124g from a family friend for a few months and I love it, I cant wait to get my own
I found a Yashica 12 at a thrift store I frequent. After I pointed out the mold in the lenses, the guy behind the counter gave it to me, along with the wide angle and telephoto lens sets. Thankfully, I have a great camera repair shop in Fort Lauderdale, and he got the lens cleaned up and even installed a new battery compartment. This was my first foray into film in decades, and WOW. I'm blown away by the quality of this camera and amazed at the images it captures. Now to get the Yashica 635 that was just gifted to me up and running.
Is that camera shop still around?
Thx Kyle, I guess I'm sticking with my Yashica! 😊
I've recently switched to a split image focusing screen and am really happy with that
Can’t go wrong with the Yashica!
Where did you order the split screen if you don’t mind me asking.
I have owned a CLA’ed YashicaMat 124G and Rolleiflex Automat MX 3.5 and sold the YashicaMat 124G since I had the Rolleiflex. I can say when I printed a 12x12 scanned negative from the YashicaMat 124G, the contrast and detail was phenomenal. I think you can’t go wrong with either one.
I was in the market for a Rollei at one time until I met the Mamiya C 330. I know it is a big and bulky TLR but I like that.
Seeing the two viewfinders side by side was something we all wanted to finally see. Nice.
I had been shooting medium format cameras for years before I started working for a photographic studio. The studio provided me, and the other wedding photographers it hired, a Yashica Mat TLR to use. I loved the image quality and the ergonomics of the Yashica Mat but did not like them because they were not in the best working condition. I decided to buy my own TLR so I would have one in better condition. I considered the Yashica Mat, the Rolleicord, the Rolleiflex, and the Mamiya. Since I needed a camera with interchangeable lenses, I selected the Mamiya with an 80mm normal lens, a 55mm wide-angle lens, and a 180mm telephoto lens.
I'm pretty pleased with my Yashica D. Initially I purchased it with a CLA already done. But it was only a superficial CLA ( dust off the parts, a squirt of oil where needed), which lasted about a year until the shutter seized. Sent the camera to Bob Sara, CLA Studios for a complete CLA to get it refurbished from the ground up. New mirror, everything disassembled, cleaned and made to work to factory specs. Really worth the investment to get a decent CLA done.
My father, who brought me into photography, used to work with a Rolleiflex. Since mirrorless allows flipscreens, every waistlevel shooting remind me of him which is kind of nice.
My first ever medium format camera was the Yashicamat in 1978, never tried a Rolleicord, but do love the Yashicamat!!!
I just got one and WOW. I had the images drum scanned and they are tigher than I get out of my Canon 90D. I could not believe the resolution! I saw the same thing with my RB 67. I am always amazed at what I have been getting. This was from Gold 200 since it just came out.
From a simple experience with many TLRs, I will always pick the Mamyia C220(F) over any TLRs.... Magnificent lenses, viewfinder and built better.... It is simple with no complications (like light meter) just a sturdy dark box with great capabilities to compose.... And yes it is heavy so it is not for streets other than that its the best of the best, pair it with sharp negative and get ready to be amazed.
Excellent. I would love to see a similar comparison with the Ricohflex and Minolta Autocord as both of those seem to be worthy of being in the conversation.
Love using my Rolleicord VB from 1967, even the leather case is in great condition.
My tests have compared my Rolleicord V to my YashicaMat. I really like having the film advance knob and the focusing on the same side of the camera with the Rolleicord. I have found the Rolleicord to take noticeably sharper photos - same sitting, same lighting, same subject, same film. The YashicaMat’s opening/closing is round and needs to be turned but is not convenient to be used with a tripod quick release plate attached. When using the Rolleicord, I use the magnifier and by settling the camera tightly against my eyebrow/eye socket there is new greater stability that nullifies any troubles with activating the shutter release. Both cameras take the exact same Hood and Rolleinar close-up lenses. Cheers from Canada.
I've owned the Yashicamat 124G now for 2-3 years and its been great. After a year I had a sticky shutter so I sent it for a CLA to Lezot Complete Camera Center in Vermont (I'm in Nashville). At the same time I decided to purchase a bright screen from Ric Oleson. Let me tell you, that bright screen made a GIANT difference. Now it's a complete pleasure to use, even in somewhat dim conditions. I definitely recommend that upgrade.
Don't tempt me, haha. I don't necessarily need one as I'm not sure how much use the Rollei will get, more of a collection addition. But I'm so curious!
How was the installation process? Any issues with focus after installation? I'm currently waiting for mine to arrive in the mail!
For anyone looking for a Yashica go for the Mat 124 non g Version. Often its cheaper and it has more metal parts than the G version.
and，636，LM，- Mat，- Auto，- D，as good as👏👏
Also, I think the Yashica D (later versions) are at least as good as the 124G. There is no light meter, but you're either gonna use sunny 16 or a dedicated metering app or meter anyway (right?). Same 4-element tessar lens but the film advance and shutter cocking are separate. One less thing to go wrong. Yashica D are cheaper too.
Lightmeter of the 124g is often not reliable (even after adjusting it to the new battery power that comes from the nowadays battery cell).
@@ldstirling I had a 124 non-G with recurrent shutter jams to the point of not worth repairing yet again. Replaced with a Yashica D that is working well.
@@oudviola send it to Mark Hama, he'll get it fixed for sure!
I love my Yashica Mat EM! It has been in service since 1964 and has yet to let me down.
For quality what might be a better comparison might be the Mat-124 (non-G). Less plastic involved in the 124 vs the 124G. Also the 124 have a built in light meter which I found to be very accurate. I have my 124 service by Mark Hamma. Well worth it if you need to have yours serviced. Great comparison video.
Loved the photos you showed here! I really like my plain old Yashica MAT 124, it's the all-metal version of the 124G ❤ Nice to see that I'm not missing much on the Rolleicord since that seems to be a well-hyped TLR. I'll take the brighter viewfinder anytime haha
Thank you!
Great video as usual. For a potential Yashica buyer I recommend also the Yashica 124 (simple number, not the G) which has more metal and a silver finish. Cheers
Thanks Robert!
The best TLR is the one you have with you!
I am still amazed that the first camera my father let me take pictures with was the Yashica.
I can’t believe I was dumb enough to let it go.
Picked up a beat up rolleiflex automat 3 for a hundred bucks after the seller dropped it Infront of me still works ☺️☺️
The Yashica for me wins all day, I'm slightly biased as I do own one! I would highly recommend you getting one if you are thinking about it, the feel of shooting a TLR is amazing and a camera I love to shoot, also great video 👌🏻
I would also choose the Yashica. Already did, it was my first medium format camera.
Thank you.... I have a few TLRs.... and I love them! I remember doing a side by side test with my 124G and my Minolta Autocord. Virtually no difference, just beautiful quality B & W images!! Best wishes... p
Awesome video! It helps me to understand better and decide which one I’ll go buy first.
I own a Yashica LM and had it CLA'd by Mark Hama. Outstanding camera...works flawlessly. Rollei's are terrific but so are the Yashica's.
Hi there,
Very nice comparison, thanks a lot.
I have one small note:
It is a Rolleicord five (V stands for a Roman five). If I'm wrong, I don't have a Rolleicord III (three) at all, but a Rolleicord I, I, I.😁
Man, if you're going to shoot the Rollei get a short cable release. Forefinger and thumb to wind and adjust and the cable held between your middle fingers. I've had both 124s and I liked the non-g better for build quality but the lenses were the same.
I currently have a cord 3 and a Rollei C. One stop up and either will resolve more line pairs than you'd care to count. Both of mine are Schneiders and the 2.8 is more expensive but other than getting to razor sharp a half stop sooner there is no difference with B&W film and if you want more of a modern look for color just use a Neutral Density filter.
As to the ever present question of which is better, Schneider or Zeiss, the only differences you'll see are in the individual copies- not the brand.
Enjoyed the Vid, thanks
By the way, cleaning the ground glass and the mirror (with a digital sensor cleaner -Be Careful) brightens it up a good deal.
Owned two Yashica MAT before switching to Rollei. Both of them have major issue of the shutter cocking lever. They are made out of fragile metal and bend/break easily.
I know it will be unpopular among Yashica lover, but the Rollei are far more reliable in the long run. Or at least I wouldn't spend more than 250$ on a working version of the MAT.
I still own a 635 which is simpler and are more reliable but had still failed on me after a CLA and one year of light use.
I owned one of the latest model of rolleicord as well but have to say goodbye to it because of the inconvenient way to fire the shutter. I learned that, there are actually 2 ways to fire the shutter. Pushing the lever is the less ideal but in most cases the only way to do that on many cameras. The most ideal way is to use a shutter release pin, which originally comes with the camera, but lost due to the old age. Such pin could easily cost as much as half a camera these days on eBay.
Yeah I actually learned about the shutter release button/pin after making this video. Seems like it's a hard one to find.
Recently bought my first tlr and im so eager to shoot on it ive been waiting to buy one for so long and im stoked i finally get to experience this
What tlr did you buy? And how was it
@@dhiratheexplorer1938 first one was a Yashica mat-124 now i got a mat-124 G, and a rolleicord DRP plus added a Kowa SIX but i need to get my lens fixed since the shutters inside a screwed but the Yashica is great obviously some age but still functional bought for a steal like 100 with some other cameras in a box
Hey brother Kyle, I would like to see you check out the Minolta Autocord. It has a great lens and does not get the shine it deserves. Lovely images!
Very much so. 👍
Nice video and two great cameras. It appears that the Rolleicord has a missing shutter button. Those are difficult to find, but as you mentioned you can still actuate the shutter as you have by sliding the release. Another good comparison is the Rolleiflex f3.5.
I have a Rolleicord La Model 3, which was produced from 1938 to 1948. It looks like it belongs in a museum, but the quality of the photos is really nice
Got a Yashica-A it’s fun to use. It’s my first medium format camera.
The Rolleicord V was a "family camera" that was the next step up from the Kodak Brownie Six-Twenty box camera in the 1950's. In the 1970's I sent the Rolleicord to Z-V camera service and got a much better camera back after a modern focusing screen and back straigthening. I still have the Rolleicord, because " it just keeps working." I did get some Size 1 filters for black-and-white photography, which was Verichrome Pan or, much later, Tri-X Pan.
Great info and review... thank you!
You have professional attitude !
How large a digital print do you find acceptable from the Yashica? Is it better than 35mm? Do you find it soft below f/8?
All depends on how it was scanned. But yes, 6x6 is going to give you way more flexibility than 35mm when it comes to printing.
Great vid Kyle. The yashica 124 really punches above its weight. Did you notice any difference when it comes to flaring? Maybe the zeiss lens has better coating? I found that to be a problem with my yashicamat 124- however, I picked up a third party hood which solved most of the problem. -Shane
Cheers Shane. There was actually one image that I didn’t include where the Yashica flared and the Rollei didn’t, but I’m pretty sure it had to do with a slight difference in where I was standing. Other than that, noticed nothing different when it comes to flare.
I've got the same problem with my original Yashica Mat and the lens is completely clean. Maybe the G version has a different coating.
The way you operate the Yashica here reminds me a bit more of my Rolleiflex Automat, which is the next step up in price among the Rollei cameras. Mine has a new focusing screen though.
I think rolleicord might not only suffer from darker viewfinder but also 3.2 viewing lens instead of 2.8 on rolleiflex and maybe on yashica.
I was deciding between both of them, as you have fairly suggested, I picked up a rolleicord for a better deal. I am impressed with this camera overally and I can say image quality to my eye is preferable to other mefium format cameras I own and I found TLR to be the aesiest mechanical film camera to shoot with. It is definetely a good choice for everyone who wants to try medium format film photography. You wouldn't regret of purchasing one of this.
A few things worth noting about the Rolleicord V series… historically, a shutter release came with the camera and was fitted into the thread, though it seems that every user up and lost them when they replaced it with a longer release cord. You really aren’t supposed to use the same mechanism for cocking the shutter to also trip it. As well, all of the complaints mentioned for the V were solved with the Vb (which I own) - focusing knob was moved to the left side, viewfinder is even brighter than the Yashica Mat 124G (which I can attest to, having briefly owned one before the winding mechanism broke), the hood is removable and has an optional prism finder, and it’s really easy to change and clean the ground glass with a few push clips (the Mat was a royal pain to disassemble just to clean it).
Yeah the VB looks like a nice option. Just a little more expensive than the two currently. As for the shutter release button, had someone message me and let me know after posting this video. Looks like that would solve the awkward lever action.
Cord with a Fresnel screen on top of the original brightens the corners and works quite well
Definitely something I’d like to try.
On my Rollei I have a little nipple for want of a better word that screws into the cable release and you can fire the shutter with that.
Yep, apparently pretty hard to find now.
I've had my Yashica for 25yrs. I love it.
You can tell by my badge. Lol
I don't know if anybody noticed but these photos are stereoscopic pairs. They can be seen in 3d. Thanks for great video!
I have both and both are great cameras, and both are fun to shoot.
This was helpful, thank you. I'm looking into buying my first TLR and anything that helps me narrow the choice is very gratefully received. Though I am still far from decided, this has swung me a couple of degrees towards the Yashica Mat and away from Rolleicord. Though there are still a few other contenders too.
...my first experiment with 'medium format' was with my works buddy's Yashica Mat in Germany in 1989...took a few - and one good- shots in B&W - used a hand held meter.
Used a 124g while in a photo studio, great camera,very reliable,underated camera!
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awesome vid, now I can finally stop asking myself what could happen if I didn't let Rolleicord V slip on an auction
Fantastic comparasion! My second TLR was a Yashica-12, and I probably wouldn't have continued using the style if I had an early Rolleiflex or Rolleicord. When I did update I went with a Rolleiflex 2.8F which offers up a similar experience to the Yashica-12/124. But I also will usually recommend a Yashica as a first TLR over a Rolleiflex/cord because of price.
Thanks, Alex. I'm hoping to try out a 3.5 or 2.8 Flex at some point in the near future!
I also have both cameras. The shutter release on the Rolleicord is certainly something less than user friendly. At slower shutter speeds, the lateral push of the lever is prone to cause motion blur if not careful.
Try and track down a soft release if you can.
I love TLRs. I had a Mamiya C220 back in the day and now have a vintage Yashica D (c1958) The 'D' is very similar to the Rolliecord in operation and also suffers from a fairly dark viewfinder. But it's a different style of photography for sure: waist level, reversed images, parallax compensation etc... When you want to get back to basics but not have the faff of a 5x4 a TLR is pretty cool. (And always gets attention from passers-by too - a mixed blessing)
My D has a f2.8 viewing lens. Quite bright.
I've just bought a 124g, but already have the Yashica-Mat, 635 and the D, bought broken and repaired myself. I'm aware the 124g will probably be more plasticky than than the others, (a common problem with later model cameras trying to save money and weight) but I'll give it a try and see how it handles.
Yes, there is nothing like shooting with a twin lens! I had a Leica rangefinder m4p at the same time as a Rollieflex and the Leica got left at home most days. Btw, this was a very classy video!
Any TLR can benefit from an upgraded screen. I use both my Rolleicord VB and Yashica-Mats. Even with a 3.2 taking lens on the Rollei it always has had a much brighter viewfinder because of the better fresnel screen. Buying any used TLR, you would really benefit from actually looking into the finder to see what it looks like because I’ve found the screen brightness can vary wildly between each individual camera depending on if the prior owner upgraded the screen. A lot of times if it’s been worked on (a lot of these have been), it will have gotten an upgraded screen.
As someone else said, if you have a dim finder it would also be a good idea to check out the condition of the mirror or the inner element of the taking lens. The mirror may be losing its reflective coating. Also, that space is not sealed and can get extremely dusty. I’ve had a camera get significantly brighter after just wiping down the mirror and taking lens.
Great video on comparing the differences between the models. Both amazing cameras for their age and it was great to see the side by side results. I would just say to anyone thinking about the Rolleicord, the controls are significantly less intuitive, but with practice they become easier to use.
Sorry for the long spiel.
Thanks for the thoughts James. I did open up the cord and clean the screen which helped a bit with brightness. Still looking to get a fresnel though!
A lot of the issues you identified with the Rolleicord V are addressed in a later Rolleiflex. Crank and shutter placement. Much brighter screen. Planar and xenotars are meant to be sharper wide open. But it comes at a price!
For sure. The Rolleiflex solves a lot of things, but the price kills the comparison.
Really nice review! Thanks for your insights. I would be thrilled with either of the cameras and will keep a look out for a deal on either of them! Do you know if the wide angle attachment for a Yashica D would fit the Yashica Mat? I won a set in great condition as part of a camera set at an auction.
I just sent my Mat 124G to Mark Hama for overhaul. I can’t wait to get it back.
For 124G. 1.) Ali express a split image screen 2.) get a tech to remove the X-M switch and the self timer 3.) line all interior surfaces with self adhesive black flocked paper 4.) make sure the rear lens elements are clean - the side facing the shutter. 5.) always use a lens shade. The images from this camera are exceptional.
Great suggestions.
I use a Rolleiflex automat which is similar in price to the Rolleicord, but has the better shutter release system, and the lens iris has more blades/rounder/smoother for nicer bokeh. It's viewfinder is not bright as noted. Haven't bothered to upgrade it because it works for focusing. Also have Yashica C, which has a lesser lens (triplet) which has it's own character sometimes desirable. Film path is different, focusing is opposite. I understand the confusion switching between cameras.
I have a Yashica 124G as my first medium format camera. I like the relatively compact form factor (for medium format cameras). It is also a lot of fun to shoot with. I wanted a Rolleiflex but the prices were/are insane. I also prefer the aperture and shutter speed knobs on the 124G over the Rolleicord.
I'm still deciding on rangefinder or SLR for my next proper medium format camera. All the prices are insane!
Yeah that’s one thing I didn’t mention but agree with-the aperture and control knobs. As well as the readout on top of the viewing lens.
A Rolleiflex 3.5b (mx-evs) would be a fairer comparison as it is a similar price/function to the yashica.
You will end up with a 2.8f with a planar or xenotar eventually as your passion for tlr cameras is obvious ;).
Great vid mate, subbed.
I eyeball the 2.8’s often!
Excellent comparison. I had a Rollei F 75mm Xenotar 3.5 which I left in the LA airport bathroom, due to jet lag fatigue. The lens was absolutely incredilbe, wide open. They've become too pricey so I've decided to not to buy another. If I ever go back to medium format, I will surely buy an Exakta 66. The TLR has too many limitations -- can't change lens, you have to buy expensive filters if you wanna get closer, I always preferred eye level prism instead of the waist level. But the Rolleis are incredible engineering and design feats.
Dammit! Now I have to buy that Yashica I've been eyeing and trying to convince myself that I don't need it, after buying myself a Mamiya RB67 two months ago ...
Haha, sorry. It’s a great camera though. One that will definitely stick with me.
Now you have to buy this Yashica Mat, and then the obligatory Mamiya C3 or C330 Pro;)
Of course, then there are Voigtlander Brillant / Superb, Rolleiflex, Veltaflex, Ikonflex and so on.
This is an incurable disease ...
I know something about it, because I just bought Voigtlander Perkeo and Inos II from 1935 ...
Great overview and test, thanks!
Nice how you were trying to be diplomatic and perhaps avoid the wrath of fanboys, but it's just not right to say that the operation of the Yashica is "different" rather than "better". A combined film advance/shutter release is objectively better for normal operation (deliberate multiple exposures are of course an exception). Likewise the conventional shutter button is threaded for a cable release. With decades of experience and new technology to draw on, that's as you'd expect.
As you said in your conclusion, if you just want to make photos, all else being equal, the Yashica is the winner. But if you particularly enjoy the idea of an authentic old-school German machine or find a good deal, the Rolleicord is so close it makes little difference.
Yeah, I hear what you're saying. But, just since I like it better, doesn't mean that everyone will. I'm sure some people out there will prefer the Rollei's way of working, even though to me, the Yashica's way or working makes a lot more sense.
Shawn Mozmode on emulsive.org shows how to engage/disengage double=exposure prevention. The lever near the viewing lens opposite the self-timer engages/disengages double exposure prevention. When in the up position double exposures are prevented while in the down position it is disabled, allowing multiple exposures.
Give me a Mamiya C330f for the 6x6 format & the interchangeable lenses. Sure, much bigger & heavier than even a Rolleiflex premium camera, but also 1/3rd the price of a camera now super hyped up because Vivian Maier once shot it... (a huge fan of hers btw, but not a fan of the prices they now fetch).
not only interchangeable，the sekor lenses are Fxking Good performer！
Vivian Maier wasn't even that great of a photographer. Her work is about the same as any other photographer in new york city during the 50's and 60's.
@@Adrian-wd4rn Ok chief...whatever you say... 🙄
@@mpk33 Guess you don't actually look and study the work of photographers. But okay chief.
@@jinxinjing4823 Absolutely! I have the 80mm/2.8 Blue Dot & the 180mm Super Sekor. Fantastic results.
I have the Yashica Mat 124G and a Rolleiflex 3.5F Planar. By far, the Rolleiflex produces more contrasty images and has much better flare resistance. Sharpness-wise, they are almost the same. The 3.5F also has parallax correction. But its price is at least 3x over the Yashica, and finding a good copy at a reasonable price is rather tough.
If your Rolleiflex with 75mm 3.5 Planar is as sharp as your 124G, then your have a serious lens repair there. Years ago, having access to a number of TLRs, I personally did a full on-film lens test comparison of about 6 TLRs, including a like new 124G. In terms of on film sharpness and contrast, the 124G performance was the worst at all apertures. While I did test a Rollei F 2.8 Planar, its results were discarded as the focus between the viewing and taking lenses proved to be misaligned. All of the cameras were either Tessar 4-element lenses or copies of such. The best by a visual degree was the Minilta Autocord, followed by the Rolleicord with a Tessar, then a Diacord. These models had about 150+% the performance of the 124G.
I own a chinese Seagull TLR for 20 years or so…and I still love it, despite being super-cheap and bokeh can be super weird. I‘m still thinking about getting a Yashica though…just to have one option of higher quality. I‘ve seen prices rising within the last year or so, so I shouldn‘t wait too long…
I’ve gotten some of my favorite shots from a Seagull 4B copy. The character of the lens can definitely be wild.
I’m shooting a rolleicord VB and Yashica635. The VB is much sharper at f11 + and infinity yields more in focus. The Yashica635 does have dreamy swirly bokeh wide open though. So Rolleicord for landscapes and Yashica for portraits 😄
Two great options!
I have a Yashica A and a Rolleicord IVb and sometimes it's a tough choice of which one I'm gonna take out.
My first jump into medium format was with TLR's. First was the Halina A1, a camera at the time I thought was amazing but had so many issues with it (back popping open more times than I like to remember) that I almost gave up until I founda Mamiya C3 for a bargain price. A beautiful camera with it's 80mm lens and a beast with it's 180cm hanging off the front. I loved using it but I just kept missing that focus sweet spot on too many images so it's now gathering dust which is a shame. Maybe I'll dig out and give it another run
having my eyes on TLRs for quite a while now. You’re just making me want to buy one right away. Right now I’m thinking of mamiya c330.
They’re definitely a unique shooting experience. I’m a big fan. Never shot with the C330 though.
@@KyleMcDougall I would love to see your take on it!
I have the Mamiya C330 and I couldn't be happier. Interchangeable lenses, close focusing with the bellows system. Built like a tank. And you can get it in mint condition for half the price of a Rolleiflex. The most underrated TLR in my opinion. Unless you're a hipster who just wants to look cool with a Rollei.
The lenses aren't quite as good as the 2.8f, but they're pretty damn close at 1/3rd the price. Love my C330f & 80mm 2.8 blue dot wiith the prism viewfinder. It's the purest shooting experience I've ever had.
I have a Yashica 635 it looks like the Rolie the knobs are te same. I love to shoot the 635. I use black and white film but i Gonny schoot Collour in the future thanks.
Prices are rising for both. Though the Yashica seems better value for money and something most beginners to medium format should consider. I’d guess that image quality would take a step up with the rolleiflex 2.8. Sounds like you’re headed towards the sweet spot - the Mamiya RZ67 !
I don't have the Yashica, but I've had 2 Rolleiflex 3.5 TLRs and 2 Minolta Autocords. The Autocords are wonderful and easy to handle, with great lenses. My vote goes to the Japanese models.
The Autocords look nice and I’ve heard great things. Prices are definitely rising on those.
It's only a matter of time before we're seeing a video on the Rolleiflex 2.8 or 3.5 lol
😂 Probably!
Very good presentation. There may be more political or dogmatic preferences that might split the opinions between both cameras. The Yashica might look a bit more like a "modern" TLR. Nevertheless, the latest models are already about forty years old and thus far behind the designed life time. As it happens, I just found my mothers Yashica 124G, which had been kept under worst conditions for over forty years now. The first battery still was in place without any damage to the battery hold. Taking the camera out of its hot storage in our attic, I only observed one problem: The "modern" light seal had vanished under temperatures between low thirties and far beyond the 100 F mark. Shutter, self timer, focus and even the aperture worked exactly as well as I left the camera in 1980. With this experience, I would suggest that the Yashica is an absolutely sturdy camera with all the advantages that have been detailed in this video.
Having not owned a Rollie anything, but having a Yashica D, and it's sister 635, and a Lubitel 2, and an Argoflex, I can say they all take wonder wonderful photos. If I were to pick up one of my TLRs, It would be the D. Or the 635. Although the Lubitel is pretty cool.
Ha that’s funny I got the rolleicord first and got used to it, then I bought the yashica mat 124g and I find the rolleicord easier cause you can hold it with the left hand. And do everything else with the right hand , whine, crank, focus and shoot. As for the yashica mat you have to switch hand like three times to take your shot
Well, I've found Schneider lenses to render scenes with more detail in the highlights and shadows and to produce a "flatter" rather than more "contrasty" image. Just compare the sky and clouds in the beach shots. Take look at the gravel driveway under the red MGA sports car. Do they look the same to you? Or does one seem puncher than the other? As far as color rendition, does the red car in one seem more saturated, and does one red seem to have the slighted bit of yellow in it-just a color cast of 2-3 points of yellow? Anyway nice comparison of the two. Each camera has their own strengths and differences. Nice video. Please keep producing them, especially of your own work.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts Norm. Glad you enjoyed this one. As for the differences, as mentioned, I’m always a bit hesitant when viewing scanned colour negative film to pick at the fine details, as it’s hard to know what variation came from the conversion.
@@KyleMcDougall Yes, Kyle, you are right. Color saturation was always an issue with color neg film. Perhaps not as much with today's films. And of course color monitors are another variation. Given all these variations, though, each lens has it's own color/contrast/sharpness signature. A photographer just has to choose which one he/she likes and can afford. Tell me, why do you choose to shoot color neg film rather than color transparency? Exposure latitude? Easier to get it processed? Color rendition? Cost?
The focus and winder makes a huge difference, as someone who started with a MAT LM and now has a few rolleiflexes. I bought my partner a yashica 635 and that focus on the wrong side and weird advanced fucked me up and I took so many double exposures haha.
Ah, didn't realize the 635 has a similar layout to the Rollei. Yeah, not for me. Definitely prefer the Yashica.
Didn’t expect to see you at Weston super mare! Are you local ?
Nope, not local. Just been visiting as many areas on the coast as I can.
@@KyleMcDougall thanks for replying , i watched your video on day I had just been to WSM to do some street photography! Great channel really enjoy it
I used to have a Yashica Mat LM and it was all metal built. The quality of the image was impeccable for a very affordable price, the only reason why I sold it is the fact that you cannot change the lens
The 124G was a last gasp model, glossed up and built down to save costs. Yashica stopped production in 1986, retailing for around $135 street price. Yashica got left with a load of 124G in the warehouse, so they sold the lot to B&H,. which took three years to unload at $80. Ehh build quality and the same lousy lens used since 1960.
Assuming both are fully functional and are still regularly CLA'ed, then doesn't matter. Both are great performers on my eyes (rarely shoot wide open, anyway). Add the Mamiya C330 into the competition, then it's a very easy choice :D
Nice comparison. The reds and blues on the Cord seem a tad richer to me, but if it had been a blind test maybe I would have guessed differently :)
At this price point, the MX or MX-EVS should enter into consideration. Dark screens yes, but the mechanical smoothness of a Rolleiflex cannot be matched by any other TLR, Cord included.
Hoping to try a Rolleiflex at some point in the future.
But I’m curious on your opinion of the Mamiya C330?
Never used it, sorry.