MAMIYA RZ67 PRO II
The Mamiya RZ67 Pro II is a professional medium format single-lens reflex (SLR) camera introduced in 1993 as an advanced version of the original RZ67. It was built for studio and commercial photographers. It mixes modular parts with electronic control and shoots 6×7 cm images. The back rotates, so you can switch between portrait and landscape orientation.
Overview
The Pro II was developed as a refined successor to the RZ67, which itself came out of the Mamiya RB67, its mechanical predecessor. Released in 1993, it fixed limits in speed, reliability and electronic integration in the original RZ67. It was engineered for high-end studio work, particularly fashion, portraiture and product photography, where image quality, lens quality and system versatility are paramount. The modular design allows interchangeable film backs, viewfinders, focusing screens and lenses, so a photographer can set the system up for the job at hand.
The rotating film back is one of the defining features of the RZ67 Pro II. It lets the photographer switch between vertical and horizontal compositions without repositioning the whole camera, which suits tripod work. The camera keeps the bellows focusing system of its predecessors, which allows precise macro and close-up photography with extensive lens extension. Unlike many medium format systems of the era, it integrates electronic shutter control and aperture-priority automation. That makes it more efficient than fully manual counterparts, and it still works with a wide array of accessories.
The RZ67 Pro II sits in Mamiya's professional lineup between fully mechanical reliability and electronic convenience. It was produced until 2004, when Mamiya shifted focus toward digital integration with the RZ67's successor, the Mamiya ZD, and later the Phase One - affiliated digital systems. It is still a sought-after platform among film photographers because of its strong build, high image quality, and adaptability to digital scanning backs via third-party adapters.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
| Type | Single-Lens Reflex (SLR) |
| Film Format | 6×7 cm (with 6×6, 6×4.5 via mask inserts) |
| Years Produced | 1993–2004 |
| Lens Mount | Mamiya RZ bayonet mount |
| Shutter | Electronic Copal Square-VS leaf shutter in lenses; 1/400 to 8 sec, Bulb |
| Metering | TTL full-aperture metering via focusing screen; center-weighted |
| Exposure Modes | Aperture-priority auto, Manual (with stop-down metering), Bulb |
| Viewfinder | Interchangeable focusing screens; prism, waist-level, and AE prism options |
| Dimensions | 138 × 134 × 140 mm (body only); Weight: ~1,350 g (body only, without back or lens) |
Key Features
- Rotating Bellows Back: The film back rotates 90° for instant orientation change without moving the camera, essential for studio precision.
- Electronic Leaf Shutters in Lenses: Each RZ lens contains a Copal Square-VS shutter, enabling flash sync at all speeds (up to 1/400 sec) and consistent exposure control.
- Aperture-Priority Automation: Allows photographers to set the aperture while the camera automatically selects the correct shutter speed via TTL metering.
- Modular System Compatibility: Fully supports interchangeable film backs (including Polaroid), viewfinders, screens, and a range of specialized lenses (e.g., 50mm fisheye, 350mm telephoto).
- Stop-Down Metering and Bulb Mode: Facilitates accurate exposure in macro and low-light conditions, with Bulb mode for long exposures.
Historical Context
The RZ67 Pro II was introduced in 1993 to address user feedback on the original RZ67, which had been released in 1989. The RZ67 brought electronic automation to Mamiya's professional SLR line, but early models suffered from relatively slow processing, occasional electronic glitches, and limited battery efficiency. The Pro II improved on these with a faster microprocessor, more reliable circuitry, and longer battery life, which mattered to commercial shooters relying on consistent performance.
At the time of its release, the medium format market was dominated by a few key players: Hasselblad (500-series), Bronica (SQ and ETR systems), and Pentax (67). The RZ67 Pro II competed directly with the Hasselblad 503CW and later 501CM. It offered a rotating back and superior close-focusing capability via bellows. Unlike the Hasselblad's unit-focusing lenses, the RZ67's bellows system allowed 1:1 magnification with standard lenses when combined with extension rails. That gave it a distinct advantage in product and macro photography.
Market reception was highly favorable among studio professionals. The camera could sync flash at 1/400 sec, a full stop faster than most contemporaries, which made it a favorite for high-speed flash work. Its modular design also allowed integration with studio strobes, view camera movements (via special adapters), and technical accessories. Mamiya supported the system with a comprehensive lineup of lenses, including the ultra-wide 37mm, the sharp 110mm f/2.8, and the 250mm f/4.5 APO for telephoto work.
Collectibility & Value
Today the Mamiya RZ67 Pro II is considered a classic among medium format film cameras and remains highly collectible, particularly in fully functional condition. Used prices typically range from $800 to $1,800 for a body-only unit, depending on shutter reliability and electronic performance. Complete kits with multiple backs, viewfinders, and lenses can exceed $3,000, especially if they include rare optics like the 50mm fisheye or 110mm f/2.8.
When buying an RZ67 Pro II, check shutter accuracy and battery compartment integrity first. The camera uses four AA batteries (or a dedicated battery grip). Corrosion in the battery chamber is a common issue and can damage circuitry. The electronic contacts between the body, lens, and back must also be clean and responsive so the parts communicate properly. Test shutter speeds across all settings, particularly 1/400 sec and Bulb, as timing drift is not uncommon in older units.
Check the bellows too, since tears or light leaks can compromise image quality. The rotating back should move smoothly without wobble, and the film back latch must seal securely. The camera relies on precise electronic coordination, so professional servicing by a technician experienced with RZ systems is recommended before heavy use.
The RZ67 Pro II still attracts film photographers and hybrid shooters because it adapts to digital scanning backs (e.g., Imacon, Leaf) via RB/RZ adapters. Its 6×7 negative size gives exceptional detail and tonal range, which suits large-format prints and archival work.
Similar Cameras
- Hasselblad 503CW – A competing 6×6 cm SLR with modular design and high-quality Zeiss optics.
- Bronica SQ-Ai – A square-format 6×6 system with interchangeable backs and manual operation.
- Pentax 67 II – A 6×7 cm SLR with manual focus and leaf shutter lenses, favored for its affordability and lens quality.
- Kiev 88 CM – A budget-friendly, mechanical 6×6 SLR with modular capabilities and Praktica mount compatibility.
- Fuji GX680 III – A larger-format 6×8 cm SLR with articulated screen and extreme bellows extension, used in high-end studio work.
Repair & Maintenance
The RZ67 Pro II runs on four AA batteries (1.5V each), typically alkaline or NiMH, providing 6V to power the electronic shutter and metering system. Battery life is moderate, with approximately 2,000-3,000 exposures per set under normal use. Corrosion in the battery chamber is a frequent issue, especially in older units, and should be cleaned carefully to prevent circuit damage.
Common mechanical problems include shutter timing inaccuracies, sticky apertures in older lenses, and failure of the release magnet (which fires the lens shutter). These often require specialized calibration tools and are best handled by technicians familiar with Copal shutters and Mamiya's RZ electronics.
Regular maintenance includes cleaning electrical contacts, checking bellows for pinholes, and making sure the rotating back is free of play. The focusing knob and film advance linkage may need lubrication after heavy use. The system is complex, so DIY repairs are not recommended unless the user has advanced technical experience. Parts and service support remain available through specialized repair shops and online communities dedicated to medium format systems.
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