Mamiya NC1000 (1978)

A compact 35mm SLR from Mamiya, released in 1978, featuring an electronic shutter and the new CS bayonet mount.

Overview

The Mamiya NC1000 is a 35mm single-lens reflex camera introduced in 1978 as part of Mamiya’s NC series. It marked a significant shift from earlier Mamiya SLRs, adopting a more compact design and introducing the CS bayonet lens mount. Manufactured by Mamiya and also sold under Sears branding as the MX/MXB and Auto CS 1000 MXB, the NC1000 was designed for photographers seeking a lightweight, electronically controlled SLR. It supports depth of field preview with manual engagement, allowing users to check focus range before exposure. The factory service manual covers both the camera and NC lenses, indicating a dedicated optical system.

Specifications

Product type	35mm SLR camera
Release year	1978
Weight	16 oz
Shutter type	Electronic focal plane shutter
Lens mount	CS bayonet mount

Design

The NC1000 represented a dramatic departure from previous Mamiya SLRs, embracing electronic control and a lighter build. It features an electronic focal plane shutter and the newly introduced CS bayonet mount, Depth of field preview is manually engaged, giving photographers direct control over aperture simulation.

Market

User reports indicate reliability concerns, particularly with the shutter failing to fire even after battery replacement, and meters showing inconsistent behavior. Some units only activate the shutter in manual speed mode. On the market, prices vary widely—from $25 for used examples to $200–$250 for kits with lenses. One eBay listing showed a body with a 50mm f/1.7 lens at $74.99, while another cited a range of $50–$400 across platforms.

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