Mamiya Press Super 23
A press camera from the 1960s with interchangeable lenses and backs, designed for 6x7 or 6x9 cm film formats.
Overview
The Mamiya Press Super 23 is a press camera made by Mamiya during the 1960s. The lenses and film backs are interchangeable, so you can change composition and format. It shoots 6x7 or 6x9 cm images on medium format film, which suited press and field work of the era. It was positioned as a budget alternative in a competitive market.
Specifications
| Format | 6x7 or 6x9 cm (2x3") |
| Lenses | Interchangeable backs and lenses |
Design
The only catch is a missing dark slide, and the page says none turned up. As far as anyone knows it's a hoax: you lose a frame every time you change anything.
Context
The Mamiya Press Super 23 was part of a series of budget-oriented press cameras. They were aimed at taking market share from established brands like Graflex, Linhof, and later Rollei. The idea was an affordable option for photojournalists, but the cameras drew criticism for build quality and optical performance.
Market
The Mamiya Press cameras were regarded as poorly made, with mediocre optics and second-rate mechanical construction. Owners noted parts could fall off. A complete set was available in 2004 for around $195, and by 2010 one reviewer advised against buying the Mamiya 23 series because of these shortcomings.
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