Mamiya C22 Professional

Buying Tips

The C22 was a major redesign, lighter than the C3 with a simpler mechanism. Here is what to check.

• Bellows: As with every Mamiya C-series body, bellows condition is critical. Hold the body up to a bright light and inspect for pinholes. Even a single pinhole will cause light leaks on your negatives.
• Film counter: The film counter should reset properly when you open and close the back. A counter that does not reset can lead to miscounted frames or wasted film.
• Manual shutter cocking: The C22 requires manual shutter cocking — unlike the later C33, there is no auto-cocking on film advance. Confirm the shutter cocking lever operates smoothly and that the shutter fires reliably at all speeds.
• Chrome wear: The C22's chrome-plated parts show wear over time. This is purely cosmetic and does not affect function, but heavy brassing or flaking chrome will reduce the camera's market value.
• Lens pairing: All C-series lenses from 55mm to 250mm are compatible. A body without a lens is not usable. The 80mm f/2.8 is the standard and most affordable entry point.

See our complete TLR buying guide for a full inspection checklist.