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Yashicaflex (various)

Where it all began — Yashica's first TLR camera.

1953–1957 6x6 on 120 film Made in Nagano, Japan
Yashicaflex (various) twin-lens reflex camera

Photo: Aleksandr Savushkin · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

Specifications

Taking LensTri-Lausar/Yashikor 80mm f/3.5
Viewing LensTri-Lausar/Yashikor 80mm f/3.5
Lens Elements3
ShutterVarious (NKS, Rectus, Copal)
Shutter SpeedsVarious models
Light MeterNone (Model S has selenium)
Filter MountPush-on
FocusingKnob advance
  • Yashica's first TLR series
  • Multiple variants (A, B, S, etc.)
  • Model S had first Japanese camera selenium meter
  • Foundation for all later Yashica TLRs

History

The Yashimaflex (later Yashicaflex) was where Yashica's TLR journey began in 1953. These early models were more basic than later designs but established the company's commitment to affordable medium format photography. Various models were produced with different features.

Cultural Significance

Collectible as the camera that launched one of Japan's most successful camera companies.

Innovations

  • Yashica's first TLR design

Collector Notes

Early Yashica TLRs. Many variants exist. Collectible but less refined than later models.

Buying Tips

Yashicaflex models vary widely in quality and configuration. Here is what to check before buying.

  • Lens fungus: Inspect the viewing lens carefully with a flashlight — fungus is common in these older optics and can spread to the taking lens over time.
  • Shutter type: Early models used simpler shutters (NKS, Rectus) with fewer speeds. Fewer moving parts means fewer things to go wrong, but confirm the shutter fires cleanly at every marked speed.
  • Variant identification: Yashicaflex came in many sub-models (A, B, S, etc.) with different lenses and shutters. Research which variant you are buying — some have selenium meters, most do not.
  • Bay I accessories: These use push-on or Bay I filter mounts. Bay I accessories are shared with later Yashica TLRs, so lens caps and filters are relatively easy to find.
  • Price ceiling: These are among the cheapest Yashica TLRs. A working example should be very affordable — do not overpay for a camera that may need a CLA.

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

Current Market Prices (USD)

ConditionPrice Range
Poor$20 – $50
Average$50 – $90
Good$90 – $140
Excellent$140 – $200
Mint$200 – $300

Source: eBay 2024

Shop for Yashicaflex (various) on eBay

Manuals & Documentation

Photo Galleries

More Yashica TLR Cameras

Yashica-A, Yashica-C, Yashica-Mat, Yashica 635, Yashica-D, Yashica Mat-LM, Yashica Mat-EM, Yashica-24, Yashica-12, Yashica Mat-124, Yashica Mat-124G

Shoot with your Yashicaflex (various)

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.