Mamiya C33 Professional

Buying Tips

The C33 is built like a tank and very heavy at over 1.5kg body-only. Here is what to inspect.

• Bellows, bellows, bellows: This cannot be overstated. The bellows are the number-one failure point on every Mamiya C-series. Open the back, hold the body up to a bright light, and check for any pinholes or cracks. A flashlight inside the bellows in a dark room is the most thorough test.
• Sport finder: The sport finder mechanism should fold up and down smoothly. If it is stiff or jams, the hinge may be bent. This is a minor issue functionally but annoying in practice.
• Film advance: The film advance should feel positive and wind smoothly. A rough or sticky advance mechanism suggests the body needs a CLA. Test by winding through a dummy roll.
• Weight: At over 2kg with the 80mm lens mounted, the C33 is one of the heaviest TLRs ever made. Handle one before committing to buy, especially if you plan to shoot handheld.
• Lens system: The C33 uses the same interchangeable lens mount as all C-series bodies. A body without a lens is useless. The 80mm f/2.8 is the standard lens and the most affordable way into the system.
• Value: The C33 offers excellent value as a professional interchangeable-lens TLR. Prices are often lower than the C330/C330f despite very similar capabilities.

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