Yashica-12

Buying Tips

The Yashica-12 is a capable CdS-metered TLR that flies under the radar. Here is what to check.

• Meter function: The CdS meter is the main selling point over simpler models. Test it with a fresh battery and compare readings against a phone meter app. A dead meter makes this camera less appealing than a cheaper Yashica-D.
• Battery compartment: Inspect for corrosion from old batteries. Even light corrosion can cause erratic meter readings or total meter failure.
• Film counter mechanism: Advance the film crank and watch the frame counter. It should increment smoothly and reliably. A jammed or erratic counter is a known issue on this model and can cause overlapping frames.
• Shutter speeds: Test all speeds on the Copal SV shutter, especially the slow end (1s through 1/10s). These require a functioning governor mechanism that often needs cleaning.
• Lower profile advantage: The Yashica-12 is less well-known than the Mat series, so prices tend to be lower for equivalent condition. If you want Yashinon optics and a working meter without paying Mat-124G prices, the Yashica-12 is worth considering.

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