Yashica 635

Buying Tips

The Yashica 635 is unique among TLRs for its dual-format capability. What you pay depends heavily on whether the 35mm adapter is included.

• 35mm adapter kit: Ask whether the 35mm adapter kit is included. The kit (film holder, counter, and take-up spool) is rare and can cost as much as the camera body alone when sold separately. Without it, you have essentially a Yashica-D.
• Adapter completeness: If the adapter is included, verify all three components are present: the film gate insert, the 35mm take-up spool, and the exposure counter. Missing pieces are very hard to source individually.
• Lens variant: Most 635s have a three-element Yashikor lens, but some later examples were fitted with a four-element Yashinon lens, which is sharper. Check the engraving around the front element to confirm which lens is fitted — Yashinon versions are preferred by shooters.
• Shutter and focusing: The 635 shares the Copal MXV shutter and knob focusing with the Yashica-D. Test all shutter speeds (especially slow ones) and confirm the focusing knob turns smoothly.
• Without adapter value: If you only want to shoot 120 film, a 635 without the adapter kit is essentially a Yashica-D and should be priced accordingly. Do not pay a premium for dual-format capability you cannot use.

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