YASHICA MAT-124

The Yashica Mat-124 is a twin-lens reflex (TLR) medium format camera produced by Yashica from 1968 to 1970. It represents a transitional model in Yashica’s Mat TLR series, serving as the direct predecessor to the more widely recognized Mat-124G, and introducing integrated through-the-lens (TTL) exposure metering to the line.

Overview

Introduced in 1968, the Yashica Mat-124 marked a significant advancement in Yashica’s long-running Mat TLR series, which began in the early 1950s. Unlike earlier models such as the Mat-12, Mat-124, and Mat-127, which relied on external selenium metering cells or no metering at all, the Mat-124 was the first in the series to feature a built-in, coupled TTL cadmium sulfide (CdS) exposure meter. This innovation allowed photographers to measure light directly through the taking lens, greatly improving exposure accuracy—particularly when using filters or bellows extension. The camera was aimed at advanced amateur and semi-professional photographers seeking a reliable, precision medium format system with modern metering capabilities.

The Mat-124 retained the classic TLR layout with a fixed 75mm f/3.5 Yashinon-D lens on both the viewing and taking sides, arranged in a vertical twin-lens configuration. It used 120 roll film to produce 12 square 6x6cm exposures per roll. The camera featured a focal-plane shutter with a wide range of speeds and a robust metal body with a folding waist-level finder. While its production run was brief—lasting only until 1970—the Mat-124 laid the technical groundwork for the nearly identical Mat-124G, which succeeded it and became one of the most popular Japanese TLRs of the 1970s. The Mat-124 is often overshadowed by its successor but remains a historically important model as the pioneer of TTL metering in Yashica’s TLR lineup.

Specifications

Key Features

• First Yashica Mat with TTL CdS metering: Enabled accurate through-the-lens light measurement, a major upgrade over selenium-based systems.
• Precision Copal Square-S shutter: Offered shutter speeds from 1 to 1/500 sec plus Bulb, with precise mechanical control.
• Matched Yashinon-D lenses: High-quality 75mm f/3.5 taking lens and faster f/2.8 viewing lens for brighter framing.
• Integrated exposure meter display: Viewfinder includes a central needle meter visible through the waist-level finder.
• Flash synchronization with variable sync speed: Unusual for TLRs, allowing flash use at slower shutter speeds for ambient blending.

Historical Context

The Yashica Mat-124 was released at a time when Japanese camera manufacturers were rapidly advancing optical and electronic integration in medium format systems. In the late 1960s, photographers increasingly demanded built-in metering and improved handling, and Yashica responded by upgrading its Mat series with modern electronics. The Mat-124 was developed as a direct evolution of the Mat-127, but instead of relying on external selenium cells, it incorporated a CdS meter with TTL capability—a feature previously seen only on high-end professional systems. This placed the Mat-124 ahead of many contemporaries in terms of exposure technology.

Despite its innovations, the Mat-124 faced strong competition from Rollei’s TLRs, particularly the Rolleiflex 2.8F and 3.5F models, which offered superior build quality and interchangeable lens systems but at significantly higher prices. More affordable rivals included the Minolta Autocord and the Ricoh Diacord, though neither offered TTL metering at the time. The Mat-124 was thus positioned as a mid-tier professional tool—offering advanced metering and solid optics at a competitive price. However, its short production run suggests limited market penetration, likely due to its high cost and the imminent release of the improved Mat-124G in 1970, which featured a brighter viewing screen and minor ergonomic refinements.

Collectibility & Value

Today, the Yashica Mat-124 is a relatively rare and underappreciated collector’s item. Due to its short production period and the overshadowing popularity of the Mat-124G, surviving examples in working condition are uncommon. In the current collector market (as of 2024), a fully functional Mat-124 typically sells for $250–$400 USD, depending on condition, shutter accuracy, and meter functionality. Cameras with non-working or missing meters are often priced lower, around $150–$200.

When purchasing a Mat-124, collectors should verify several key points: shutter operation across all speeds (especially 1/500 sec, which can stick due to dried lubricants), accurate aperture actuation, and meter functionality. The original PX625 mercury battery is no longer manufactured, so users must rely on modern alkaline or silver oxide replacements (such as WeinCell MRB625) or voltage-regulating adapters to achieve correct meter readings. The CdS cell itself can degrade over time, leading to inaccurate exposure readings. Other common issues include light leaks from deteriorated film pressure plate foam, cloudy or scratched ground glass, and stiff focusing mechanisms. While repair parts are scarce, the Copal shutter is serviceable by experienced technicians.

Similar Cameras

• Rolleiflex 3.5F – German-engineered TLR with interchangeable lenses, superior build, and exceptional optics; significantly more expensive.
• Minolta Autocord CDS – Japanese TLR with built-in CDS meter (non-TTL), 80mm f/3.5 lenses, and compact design.
• Mamiya C330 – Modular TLR with interchangeable lenses, focusing tracks, and professional-grade features.
• Ricoh Diacord 80 – Budget-friendly TLR with coupled rangefinder focusing and 80mm f/3.5 lens.
• Yashica Mat-124G – Direct successor with nearly identical specs but improved viewfinder and longer production run.

Repair & Maintenance

The Yashica Mat-124 requires a 1.35V PX625 mercury battery for proper meter operation, though modern substitutes like the WeinCell MRB625 (1.35V) or adapters for 1.5V SR44 batteries are commonly used. Voltage mismatches can cause overexposure, so a regulated adapter is recommended. The Copal Square-S shutter is robust but prone to speed inaccuracy over time, especially at high speeds, and benefits from a CLA (clean, lubricate, adjust) service by a specialist. The CdS meter cell may require cleaning or replacement if unresponsive. Focus gears and film advance mechanisms should be checked for smooth operation. Given the camera’s age, rubber seals and light traps should be replaced to prevent light leaks. Overall, the Mat-124 is moderately difficult to repair due to limited parts availability, but its mechanical design is relatively straightforward for experienced technicians.

eBay Listings

Yashica MAT-124 TLR Camera Copal-SV Yashinon 80mm f/3.5 120m

$130

Yashica Mat-124G Twin Lens Camera 80mm 3.5 Yashinon 6x6

$110

Yashica Mat 124 6x6 TLR Med Format Camera w Yashinon 80mm f/

$200

Yashica Mat 124G - Medium Format - 6x6 - 120 TLR Camera - Fi

$299

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Related Models

• Yashica Mat-124G (1970-1986)
• Lubitel 166 (1976-1990)
• Lubitel 2 (1955–1979)
• Mamiya C220 (1968-1975)
• Mamiya C330 (1969-1974)
• Mamiya C330f (1975-1983)
• Mamiya C330S (1983–1994)
• Rollei 2.8F (1960-1981)
• Rolleicord V (1954–1957)
• Rolleicord Va (1957–1962)