Yashica Twin Lens Reflex Guide - Focal Press January 1964 Page 5 / 55
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THE YASHICA REFLEX CAMERA
The Yashica rollfilm reflex cameras are twin-lens mirror reflex cameras made in two sizes, one taking 12 exposures of a
size 2¼ x 2¼ in. (6 x 6 cm.) on standard 120 roll film, the other taking 12 exposures 1 5/8 X 1 5/8 in. (4 x 4 cm.) on 127
roll film.
Two lenses matched for focal length are mounted one above the other on a common panel. The upper lens projects an
image of the subject via a mirror on to a ground glass screen in the top of the camera, while the lower one projects a
similar image on to the film: the ground glass image therefore shows at all times the full-size picture as it will appear on
the negative, upright but reversed left to right. To compensate for any parallax between the viewing and taking lens, the
ground glass is suitably masked. The ground glass on top of the camera is protected in the closed position by the folded-
down finder hood. When opened, this forms a light-excluding hood 2½ in. high; it carries a magnifier for critical focusing
and has a built-in framefinder for eye-level direct vision.
The Yashica reflex cameras are focused by a large focusing knob on the side of the camera. This is geared to the front
panel and smoothly and simultaneously controls both lenses. A depth of field indicator is incorporated.
A film speed indicator is built into the centre of the focusing knob except model D and 635, where it is in the film
transport knob.
A tripod bush is located in the centre of the camera base. The back of the camera hinges open for insertion of the film. It
carries a substantial spring-loaded pressure plate to locate the film precisely in its focal plane. The shutter is released by a
body release knob on the front of the camera.
The body is diecast and leather covered. The dimensions of the 2¼ x 2¼ models are 5 5/8 X 4 1/8 x 3 ¾ in., weight from
32 oz. to 40 oz. The 4 x 4 models measure 4½ 3¼ x 3¼ in. and weigh from 24 oz. to 29 oz.
The various Yashica rollfilm reflex models are distinguished from each other by the type of lens built-in, the number of
shutter speeds, various automatic features and built-in exposure meter.
Some discontinued models of the Yashica reflex, such as models B, C and 44 which were on the market only for a short
time, are so similar to the current ones that they have not been dealt with in the guide separately. There are also several
transition variations of the Yashica reflex models listed below. These variations are of a minor nature and the consequent
change in manipulation self-evident.
Yashica Reflex Models
The 2¼ x 2¼ in. models are:
• Yashica reflex A.
As general description above, fitted with Yashikor, earlier models with Yashimar f 3.5 80 mm. three-element, in
four-speed Copal shutter, X flash synchronized, film transport by knob, non-automatic, accessory shoe fitted.
• Yashica reflex B.
Similar to A with aperture and shutter speed set by levers on either side of the shutter rim.
• Yashica reflex C.
Adds to model A semi-automatic film transport, speed range from 1 to 1/300 sec., field lens in focusing screen,
full XM flash synchronization, Yashikor f3.5 80 mm. lens with bayonet mount for filters, built-in delayed action.
• Yashica reflex D.
Similar to model C with increased speed range 1 to 1/500 sec., aperture and speed setting in cut-out window
above finder lens controlled by thumb wheels.
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