MAMIYA M645 1000S
The Mamiya M645 1000S is a manual focus, medium format single-lens reflex (SLR) camera. Mamiya built it from 1976 to 1990. It evolved from the original M645 and brought a faster top shutter speed of 1/1000 second, better mechanical reliability and refined ergonomics. Professionals and advanced amateurs who wanted high image quality in a portable 6x4.5cm system preferred it.
Overview
Mamiya introduced the M645 1000S in 1976 as a significant upgrade to the original M645, which came out in 1975. It was positioned as a professional-grade medium format SLR for studio, portrait and field work. It kept the modular design of its predecessor, with interchangeable film backs, viewfinders and focusing screens. The new part was a vertical-travel focal plane shutter capable of 1/1000 second - making it one of the fastest medium format SLRs of its era.
The target buyer was the working photographer who wanted medium format image quality without the bulk of larger systems like the Mamiya RB67 or Hasselblad 500 series. The M645 1000S gave them a compact, lightweight body with full mechanical operation. It has no electronic exposure control. Shutter timing is fully mechanical and exposure is set by hand, so the basic functions need no batteries. The lens mount takes the extensive range of M645 Sekor lenses, many of which are still in use today.
The M645 1000S helped establish Mamiya's reputation in the professional medium format market. It was the mechanical foundation for later models such as the M645 Super and M645 Pro, which added built-in metering and aperture-priority automation. The 1000S is still prized for its simplicity and pure mechanical operation, and photographers who favor manual control and mechanical redundancy like it for that.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
| Type | Single-Lens Reflex (SLR) |
| Film Format | 6x4.5cm (on 120/220 roll film) |
| Years Produced | 1976–1990 |
| Lens Mount | M645 screw-thread bayonet (Mamiya 645 system) |
| Shutter | Vertical-travel metal focal plane shutter; speeds 1 sec to 1/1000 sec, plus B |
| Metering | None (body-integrated); requires external or viewfinder-mounted meter |
| Exposure Modes | Manual only |
| Viewfinder | Interchangeable (waist-level, prism, etc.); standard with waist-level finder |
| Dimensions | Approx. 148 x 100 x 102 mm (w/ standard finder); Weight: ~950 g (body only) |
Key Features
- 1/1000 second shutter speed: The fastest in its class at launch, enabling greater flexibility with wide apertures in daylight.
- Fully mechanical operation: No batteries required for shutter function, ensuring reliability in extreme conditions.
- Interchangeable components: Supports multiple film backs, viewfinders, and focusing screens for versatile shooting.
- Robust metal construction: Precision-machined aluminum and die-cast alloy body built for professional durability.
- Compatibility with M645 lens system: Works with over 30 Mamiya Sekor lenses ranging from 35mm to 1000mm.
Historical Context
Mamiya released the M645 1000S while demand was growing for more portable and agile systems than traditional modular cameras like the Hasselblad 500C/M or Bronica SQ. Mamiya answered with a 6x4.5cm SLR that combined high image quality, rapid handling and system expandability. The 1/1000 second shutter speed was a major differentiator. It let photographers use fast lenses wide open in bright light, which competing models limited to 1/500 or 1/400 second could not do.
Competitors at the time included the Bronica S2A (max 1/500s) and the earlier Hasselblad 500 series (1/500s). Both lacked the speed of the M645 1000S. The Pentax 6x7 offered excellent optics and a larger negative, but it was significantly bulkier and slower to operate. The M645 1000S found a niche in photojournalism, event photography and commercial work, where speed, reliability and image quality all counted. Its success laid the groundwork for Mamiya's long-term dominance in the 645 format, leading to the later M645 Pro TL and digital-era M645DF models.
Collectibility & Value
Today the Mamiya M645 1000S is considered a classic among medium format film cameras and is highly collectible, particularly in fully functional condition with matching viewfinders and film backs. Prices on the used market typically range from $300 to $600 USD for a complete kit, depending on condition and included accessories. Buy one with a fully working shutter and light-tight film backs, because repair parts are limited and specialized technicians are rare.
Common issues include shutter timing inaccuracies, light leaks from aging film back seals, and stiff mirror mechanisms from dried lubricants. The camera uses no batteries for shutter operation, but light metering needs external devices or metered viewfinders (such as the AE prism finder, which uses a 6V PX28 battery). Collectors should check that the film advance and shutter cocking mechanisms run smoothly and that the mirror returns consistently. The 1000S is mechanically simple and solidly built, so it is relatively durable, but regular CLA (Clean, Lubricate, Adjust) servicing is recommended for long-term reliability.
Similar Cameras
- Bronica S2A – Manual 6x4.5cm SLR with interchangeable backs, max 1/500s shutter.
- Hasselblad 500C/M – Iconic modular medium format SLR, 6x6cm format, 1/500s max.
- Pentax 6x7 – Large-format SLR with superb optics, but bulkier and slower handling.
- Kiev 88 – Soviet-built TLR-style SLR with 6x6cm format, interchangeable backs, but less refined mechanics.
- Minolta CLE (with adapter) – Not a direct competitor, but a compact system for high-quality film imaging.
Repair & Maintenance
The Mamiya M645 1000S needs no batteries for shutter operation, which makes it reliable in field conditions. Light metering has to be done with external meters or optional metered viewfinders (e.g., AE Prism Finder Type 3, which uses a 6V PX28 battery). Common maintenance issues include shutter blade lubrication, mirror damping fluid degradation and film back pressure plate alignment. The focal plane shutter is complex and should only be serviced by technicians experienced with medium format systems.
The camera is old, and original parts are no longer manufactured. Some third-party suppliers offer replacement foam light seals and focusing screens. Regular use and periodic CLA servicing every 5-7 years are recommended to maintain good performance. The mechanical design is sturdy but sensitive to impact and moisture, so storage in a dry, temperature-stable environment is advised. Overall, the M645 1000S is considered repairable with proper expertise, though costs can be significant due to labor intensity.
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