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Yashica Mat-124G

The people's Rolleiflex — Japanese quality at a fraction of the price.

1970–1986 6x6 on 120/220 film Made in Nagano, Japan
Yashica Mat-124G twin-lens reflex camera

Photo: Biswarup Ganguly · CC BY 3.0 · Source

Specifications

Taking LensYashinon 80mm f/3.5
Viewing LensYashinon 80mm f/2.8
Lens Elements4
ShutterCopal SV
Shutter Speeds1s - 1/500s + B
Light MeterCdS coupled
Filter MountBay I
FocusingCrank with helicoid
Weight1070g
  • Last Yashica TLR produced
  • Gold-plated contacts
  • CdS meter with match-needle display
  • 120/220 film switching
  • 16 years in production

History

Yashima Seiki began in 1949 with just 8 employees making clock parts in Nagano, Japan. By 1953 they produced their first camera. The Mat-124G, introduced in 1970, represents the culmination of nearly two decades of TLR refinement. It sold in enormous quantities and became the most widely used TLR among working professionals who couldn't justify Rolleiflex prices. Its remarkable 16-year production run lasted until 1986, making it both the last and most beloved Yashica TLR.

Notable Photographers

Widely used by wedding photographers, portrait studios, and photojournalists throughout the 1970s and 80s who needed medium format quality without Rolleiflex prices.

Cultural Significance

Often called 'the poor man's Rolleiflex,' though this undersells its excellent Yashinon optics. Featured in countless 'getting into medium format' guides as the ideal starter TLR.

Innovations

  • CdS battery-powered meter
  • Gold-plated electrical contacts
  • 120/220 film switching

Collector Notes

The most sought-after Yashica TLR. At a fraction of Rolleiflex prices, it delivers comparable image quality. Check that the meter still works — many have weak or dead batteries.

Buying Tips

The Mat-124G is the most popular starter TLR, which means high demand, premium prices, and more misrepresented listings. Inspect carefully.

  • Mercury battery issue: The CdS meter was designed for a 1.35V mercury battery (now banned). You will need a Wein zinc-air cell, a voltage-reducing adapter with a silver oxide battery, or a phone meter app. Factor this into your purchase decision.
  • Gold contact corrosion: Despite the gold-plated contacts, corrosion still occurs — especially if a battery was left inside. Open the battery compartment and look for green or white deposits. Clean contacts are essential for reliable meter readings.
  • Leatherette condition: The covering on 124Gs commonly peels and lifts, especially along edges and corners. This is cosmetic but affects resale value. Re-covering kits are widely available if needed.
  • 120/220 selector: Toggle the film format switch. It should snap crisply between positions. A jammed selector is a known issue — forcing it can damage the internal film pressure plate mechanism.
  • Crank focusing wear: The focusing crank is the most common mechanical wear point after decades of use. Turn it slowly from close focus to infinity — it should be smooth with no play or wobble. Loose or gritty focusing indicates a worn helicoid.
  • Premium pricing: High demand means many sellers ask top dollar. Be patient and compare prices. Also beware of listings that use stock photos or vague condition descriptions — always ask for detailed photos of the lens elements, battery compartment, and film chamber.

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

Current Market Prices (USD)

ConditionPrice Range
Poor$80 – $120
Average$160 – $200
Good$220 – $280
Excellent$300 – $400
Mint$380 – $500

Source: eBay/Collectiblend 2024

Shop for Yashica Mat-124G on eBay

Articles & Reviews

Manuals & Documentation

Photo Galleries

More Yashica TLR Cameras

Yashicaflex (various), Yashica-A, Yashica-C, Yashica-Mat, Yashica 635, Yashica-D, Yashica Mat-LM, Yashica Mat-EM, Yashica-24, Yashica-12, Yashica Mat-124

Shoot with your Yashica Mat-124G

TLR Companion is a free light meter app and film roll tracker built for TLR and medium format photographers. Meter light, load film, track every frame.

Planning a long exposure? TLR Companion handles ND filter compensation and reciprocity correction for 19 film stocks.